How to Remove Tea and Coffee Stains from Mugs

So that favorite mug of yours that your bestie gave you last Christmas has built up stains inside of the cup?

I feel you. Every time you pull that mug out of the cupboard, you think in the back of your mind — I should probably do something with those stains or…low key slide that mug into the glass recycling bin and let it go.

I have a simple solution for you, that can help you salvage your mugs and lift these coffee / tea stains.

First, you’ll need to stock up on baking soda (an essential ingredient to have at home for various cleaning tasks!).


STEP 1: MIX A PASTE

In a bowl (or in the cup itself, depending on how many cups you’re treating), mix together the baking soda with water until it turns into a paste. Try a ratio of 1:1 (1 part baking soda, 1 part water) to start. Adjust as needed.


STEP 2: SCRUB

Using a dish brush or the abrasive side of a sponge, generously apply the paste to the inside of the cup and scrub. The brush or the sponge and the abrasive nature of the baking soda will help get into any pores in the mug and lift the stains. 


STEP 3: RINSE & DRY

Rinse the mug(s) and dry. If you continue to notice stains, an alternate treatment you can try is soft scrub bleach and a brush. Activate the soft scrub with a little bit of water in the cleaning process. Once you’re done scrubbing, rinse and dry.


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