If you’re a tea or coffee lover like us, you’ve probably looked down at the bottom of your cup and noticed a dark ring left behind. Don’t worry—those stains are common, especially on mugs that get used a lot. The good news is, they’re easy to clean! To help you keep your favourite mugs looking fresh and spotless, we’ve put together a simple guide with a few easy methods. Try one—or all four—if you’re dealing with stubborn stains.
1. Soaking Method: A Quick Fix for Most Stains
The easiest way to get rid of tea and coffee stains is to soak your mug in warm water with a bit of gentle washing liquid. Let it sit for about 30 minutes. These liquids are made to break down dirt and grease, so they help lift those stains, too. For best results, clean your mug right after use. Once it’s clean, dry it with a tea towel and it’s ready for your next drink!
2. Baking Soda & Vinegar Combo: A DIY Cleaning Solution
If soaking doesn’t do the trick, try this homemade cleaner:
- Add 1 tablespoon of baking soda to the mug.
- Mix half a cup of white vinegar with half a cup of hot water and pour it in until the stains are fully covered.
- Let it sit for about 2 hours.
- Rinse well and gently scrub with a cloth if needed.
This method is great for tougher stains and uses ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Also Read: How Long Should You Steep Oolong Tea?
3. Lemon & Salt: A Natural Way to Scrub Stains
Lemon is another great option. Cut one in half and squeeze the juice directly onto the stained areas. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes. Then, use a damp cloth to rub it in. For really tough stains, sprinkle a bit of salt on top—it acts like a natural scrub. When the stains are gone, rinse the mug and it’ll be good as new.
4. Using the Dishwasher (Yes, It’s Safe!)
You can also clean fine bone china or stoneware mugs in the dishwasher—just follow a few simple rules:
- Don’t let the pieces touch to avoid scratches.
- Keep the temperature below 40°C (104°F).
- Choose the gentle, short wash or the cycle for china/crystal.
- Use a mild detergent—eco-friendly options are best.
- Make sure there’s a rinse cycle right after the wash to avoid detergent residue building up.
Also Read: How Long Should You Steep Oolong Tea?
Extra Tips to Keep Your Mugs Sparkling
To keep your mugs looking great and tasting fresh, wash them soon after use. Avoid scouring pads or harsh cleaners, as they can damage the surface. And remember—letting stains sit for too long can lead to permanent discolouration.
We hope these easy cleaning tips help you save your favourite mugs from tea and coffee stains! Got your own tricks for tackling mug stains? We’d love to hear them—share your tips in the comments below!
