According to etiquette rules, this is the proper way to hold a coffee mug. So if you’re a stickler for manners or trying to wow someone with your etiquette skills, this is the way to do it.
In general, coffee is considered a pretty casual drink, so it’s okay if you’re not at the top of your etiquette game every time you have a cup.
Make sure the mug isn’t hot enough to be uncomfortable. You don’t want to accidentally drop it.
Holding it like this will keep you from burning your palm by wrapping your hand around a hot mug. However, if the beverage is really hot, the steam could burn the palm of your hand this way.
Try using the etiquette-friendly approach here—loop your index finger through the handle and tuck your other 3 fingers into your palm.
Even if you aren’t wearing lipstick, it’s considered good manners to drink from the same place on your mug with every sip. [7] X Research source If you’re left-handed, hold the handle at 9 o’clock instead.
Most mugs are made for right-handed people, so this is a little tricky for lefties. If you’re left-handed, you can either hold the mug in your right hand (which might feel awkward) or buy a few mugs that you can design yourself. There are tons of options for this in online shops!
This will help reduce any splashing as you stir, and it may also help your sugar dissolve faster. Be sure not to let your spoon clink loudly against your mug if you’re in polite company—it’s considered rude.
If you are serving a mug in a coffee shop, place the mug on the counter for your customer to take rather than handing it directly to them.
