Try these hints to help with pouring cold liquids

• Place your index finger at the rim of the cup or glass to feel the liquid rising to the top (Note: This technique is used with cold liquids only);
• Listen for the sound of liquid entering the container, as well as for sound changes as the liquid reaches the top rim of the cup or glass;
• Wrap your hand around the glass or cup and feel for temperature changes as the liquid level rises; (click on photo to enlarge)
• Begin practicing with a shorter glass or cup with a wide mouth;
• Try pouring from a pitcher with a spout.

Try these hints to help with pouring hot liquids

• The Hot Shot Beverage Maker(see product at Maxi-Aids.com [link opens in new window]) boils a single cup of water and dispenses it into a cup or mug at the push of a button to make one cup of tea, instant coffee, hot chocolate or soup.
• Microwave one cup of water: two minutes for hot and three minutes for boiling.
• Pre-measure the desired quantity of water and pour it through your automatic coffee maker with the filter basket in place.
• Fill a kettle with the desired amount of water (1 cup, for example) before heating and pouring.

These hints can help with pouring both hot and cold liquids:

• Electronic liquid-level indicators (see Say When Liquid Level Indicator [link opens in new window] at MaxiAids.com) can help you pour hot and cold liquids by making a noise and vibrating when the liquid in a glass or cup is a certain distance from the top rim.
• Pour slowly at first and gradually increase your speed as your skills improve with practice.
• Become aware of the temperature change on the side of a glass or cup as the liquid rises.
• Practice with a variety of containers.
• Never hold the cup or glass in the air while pouring; instead, place the cup or glass on a level surface. This helps to avoid spills and burns.
• If possible, use color contrast to make liquids more visible. Use a light-colored mug for coffee and a darker glass or cup for milk. Keep your body aligned with the table edge or counter top.
• Try pouring with the pitcher/kettle/coffee pot in the sink and the glass or cup on the adjoining counter top This can make it easier to lift the pitcher or kettle and can help with spills and cleanup.
• Wipe up any spills immediately.