Measuring cups are kitchen utensils primarily used to measure the volume of liquid or bulk solid cooking ingredients such as flour, sugar, milk, water, oil, and other substances. They usually have scale markings at different heights to indicate volume measurements, commonly in cups, fluid ounces, pints, tablespoons, and teaspoons. There are two main types: liquid measuring cups, which are often clear and microwave-safe for liquids, and dry measuring cups, which are designed to be filled to the top and leveled off for powders or dry ingredients. Measuring cups can be made of plastic, glass, or metal, and the capacity can range from small fractions (e.g., 1/4 cup) to larger volumes (e.g., 4 cups or 1 quart).