How to Get Coffee Stains Out of Mugs
Brown rings inside your favorite mug are completely normal. Coffee and tea contain tannins and oils that cling to the glaze, and hard water makes the build-up worse. The good news: you can remove most stains in minutes with things you already have in the kitchen.
5 ways to remove coffee stains from mugs
1. Baking soda paste
Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a few drops of water to make a thick paste. Rub it over the stain with a soft sponge, leave it for a few minutes, then rinse. Baking soda is mildly abrasive, so it lifts stains without scratching the glaze.
2. White vinegar soak
Fill the mug with equal parts white vinegar and hot water. Let it soak for 15 to 30 minutes, then wash as usual. Vinegar is especially good at dissolving hard-water residue that traps stains.
3. Lemon and salt
Sprinkle a little coarse salt into the mug and scrub it with half a lemon. The acid breaks down the stain while the salt works as a gentle scrub. Rinse well afterwards.
4. Denture cleaning tablet
Drop a denture tablet into a mug of warm water and leave it for about 30 minutes, or overnight for stubborn stains. Wash and rinse thoroughly before using the mug again.
5. Baking soda and vinegar combined
For older stains, sprinkle baking soda into the mug, add a splash of vinegar and let it fizz for a few minutes. Scrub gently and rinse.
How to get tea stains out of mugs
Tea stains respond to the same methods. Baking soda paste works quickly on fresh tea rings, and a vinegar or denture tablet soak takes care of darker, older stains.
How to clean a printed mug without damaging the design
- Use a soft sponge or cloth, never steel wool or scouring pads on the outside.
- Skip bleach and harsh chemical cleaners on the printed area.
- Place mugs on the top rack of the dishwasher, or wash by hand with warm water and dish soap.
How to prevent coffee stains
- Rinse your mug as soon as you finish your drink.
- Don't leave coffee or tea sitting in the mug for hours.
- Wash mugs regularly instead of only rinsing them.
- Prefer a stain-hiding look? A black coffee mug or a two-tone mug with a dark interior shows far less.
Looking for a fresh start? Browse our coffee mugs and tea mugs.