How to Convert Tablespoons to Milliliters

The Tablespoons to Milliliters Formula

The conversion depends on which tablespoon standard you use:

mL = US Tablespoons × 14.787

mL = Metric Tablespoons × 20

For practical purposes, many sources round the US tablespoon to 15 mL. This is within 1.4% of the exact value and is the standard used on most medicine dosing cups.

Step-by-Step Examples

Example 1: 2 Tablespoons to mL

• Calculation: 2 × 14.787 = 29.57 mL.
• Result: 2 US tablespoons = approximately 30 mL.

Example 2: Half a Tablespoon to mL

• Calculation: 0.5 × 14.787 = 7.39 mL.
• Result: Half a tablespoon = approximately 7.4 mL (about 1.5 teaspoons).

Example 3: A Recipe Calls for 4 Tablespoons of Oil

• Calculation: 4 × 14.787 = 59.15 mL.
• Result: 4 tablespoons = approximately 59 mL, or about 1/4 cup.

Reference Table

Real-World Applications

Medicine Dosing

Many over-the-counter medications specify doses in mL but patients measure with kitchen tablespoons. Using the standard approximation of 1 tbsp = 15 mL is generally safe for medicine, but a proper dosing syringe or cup is always more accurate than a kitchen spoon.

Following International Recipes

When converting an American recipe to metric for a European kitchen, knowing that each tablespoon is about 15 mL makes the conversion quick and practical.

Nutritional Supplements

Liquid supplements (fish oil, vitamins) are often dosed in tablespoons but nutritional information is per mL. Accurate conversion helps you track your actual intake.

Practical Tip

For cooking, rounding 1 tablespoon to 15 mL is perfectly acceptable. The 1.4% difference will not affect your recipe. For medicine, use a proper measuring device. For exact conversions, use our volume converter.