Relationship Between Milliliters and Teaspoons

The conversion between milliliters and teaspoons is based on the US customary measurement system where 1 US teaspoon equals approximately 4.92892 milliliters.

1 US tsp = 4.92892 mL

Therefore,

1 mL ≈ 0.202884 US tsp

To convert milliliters to teaspoons, we multiply the value in milliliters by 0.202884.

For example, 5 milliliters equals approximately 1.01442 teaspoons, 10 milliliters equal approximately 2.02884 teaspoons, and 100 milliliters equal approximately 20.2884 teaspoons.

Note: This converter uses US teaspoons. UK, Australian, and metric teaspoons have slightly different volumes (UK teaspoon ≈ 5.92 mL, metric teaspoon = 5 mL).

Milliliter (mL)

What is a Milliliter (mL)?

A milliliter (symbol: mL or ml) is a metric unit of volume equal to one thousandth of a liter (1 mL = 0.001 L) or one cubic centimeter (1 mL = 1 cm³). The prefix 'milli-' means one thousandth. Milliliters are the most common metric unit for measuring small volumes of liquids, particularly in cooking, medicine, chemistry, and everyday life.

History and Origin of the Milliliter

The milliliter is part of the metric system, developed in France during the late 18th century. As a metric unit, it's based on the liter, which was originally defined as the volume of one kilogram of pure water at 4°C (the temperature at which water has its maximum density). The milliliter provides a convenient unit for everyday measurements that are too small to be practically expressed in liters but too large for microliters.

Milliliter in the Metric Volume Scale

The milliliter fits into the metric volume scale as follows:

Kiloliter (kL): 1,000,000 mL = 1 kL
Liter (L): 1,000 mL = 1 L
Deciliter (dL): 100 mL = 1 dL
Centiliter (cL): 10 mL = 1 cL
Milliliter (mL): Base unit for this scale
Microliter (µL): 1 mL = 1,000 µL

The decimal relationship makes conversions straightforward.

Modern Applications of Milliliters

• Cooking & Baking: Recipe measurements for liquids and small quantities
• Medicine & Pharmacy: Liquid medication dosages (cough syrup, antibiotics)
• Beverages: Drink serving sizes and nutrition labels
• Chemistry & Labs: Precise liquid measurements in experiments
• Cosmetics: Product volumes for perfumes, serums, and treatments
• Automotive: Engine oil, coolant, and fluid measurements
• Aquariums: Water treatment and additive dosing
• Coffee & Espresso: Shot volumes and brew ratios (e.g., 30 mL espresso shot)

Milliliters vs. Cubic Centimeters

Milliliters and cubic centimeters (cc or cm³) are exactly equivalent: 1 mL = 1 cm³. While both represent the same volume, they're used in different contexts. Milliliters are preferred for liquids (beverages, medicine), while cubic centimeters are often used for solid volumes, engine displacements, and medical injections. For example, a doctor might administer 2 cc of a vaccine, while a recipe calls for 250 mL of milk—same measurement principle, different contexts.

Teaspoon (tsp)

What is a Teaspoon (tsp)?

A teaspoon (symbol: tsp or t) is a volume measurement commonly used in cooking and medicine. In the United States, one teaspoon is officially defined as exactly 4.92892 milliliters (often rounded to 5 mL for practical purposes). The teaspoon originated as a household utensil measurement and became standardized for recipe consistency and medication dosing.

History and Origin of the Teaspoon

The teaspoon began as a literal measurement—the amount a small spoon could hold for stirring tea. Over centuries, it evolved from a variable household measure to a standardized culinary unit. In 1960, the US officially defined the teaspoon as 1/6 of a US fluid ounce (approximately 4.92892 mL) for use in recipes and nutrition labeling. This standardization was crucial for ensuring recipe accuracy and consistent food labeling.

Teaspoon Variations Around the World

Different countries have slightly different teaspoon definitions:

US Teaspoon: 4.92892 mL (≈ 1/6 fl oz)
UK/Canadian Teaspoon: 5.91939 mL (≈ 1/6 Imperial fl oz)
Metric Teaspoon: 5 mL (used in Australia, New Zealand)
Traditional Chinese: Approximately 5 mL

These differences are small but can affect recipe outcomes, especially in baking where precision matters. When following international recipes, it's important to know which teaspoon standard is being used.

Modern Applications of Teaspoons

• Cooking & Baking: Measuring spices, extracts, baking powder, salt, and sugar
• Medicine: Liquid medication dosing (children's medicine, cough syrup)
• Nutrition Labels: Serving size descriptions in the US
• Coffee & Tea: Measuring coffee grounds, tea leaves, sugar, and honey
• Supplements: Powdered supplement dosing instructions
• Baby Care: Infant feeding measurements and medication
• Bartending: Small ingredient measurements in cocktails
• Health & Fitness: Measuring protein powder, creatine, and other supplements

Teaspoon Relationships to Other Measurements

Understanding how teaspoons relate to other common measurements is useful:

3 teaspoons = 1 tablespoon (Tbsp)
6 teaspoons = 1 fluid ounce (fl oz)
48 teaspoons = 1 cup
768 teaspoons = 1 gallon

These relationships make it easier to scale recipes up or down and convert between measurement systems.

Teaspoon Accuracy: Kitchen Spoons vs. Measuring Spoons

Important: Regular teaspoons from your silverware drawer vary significantly in volume (typically 3-7 mL) and should NOT be used for precise recipe measurements or medication dosing. Always use standardized measuring spoons for recipes and follow medication package instructions. For medicine, use the dosing device that comes with the product (syringe, dropper, or measuring cup) rather than kitchen spoons to ensure accurate and safe dosing, especially for children.

Milliliter to Teaspoon Conversion Table

The conversion of milliliters to teaspoons for certain values are provided below: