How to Remove Coffee and Tea Stains from Cups

Tea and coffee stains can be quite stubborn and unsightly, leaving your cups looking dingy and neglected. Luckily, there are effective methods to remove these stains and restore your cups to their former glory. 

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore tried and tested techniques to help you eliminate those pesky tea and coffee stains and ensure your cups remain clean and pristine.

Water and Dish Soap

One of the simplest and most common methods for removing tea and coffee stains from cups is by using a combination of water and dish soap. Begin by rinsing the cup with warm water to loosen the stain. This initial step will make the subsequent cleaning process more effective. Then, take a small amount of dish soap and apply it to a soft cloth or sponge. Gently scrub the stained area, making sure to cover every inch of the discoloration. Dish soap works wonders in breaking down the oils and tannins present in the stains. Finally, rinse the cup thoroughly with cold water, ensuring that there is no soap residue left behind.

Baking Soda and Warm Water

If the stain persists even after using dish soap, it’s time to bring out the trusty baking soda.

Baking soda is a natural abrasive that can help lift the stain and restore the cup’s shine. Create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of warm water until it forms a thick consistency. Apply the paste to the stained area and gently scrub it with a soft sponge or cloth. The grittiness of the baking soda will help remove the stubborn residue.

Finish by thoroughly rinsing the cup with water to remove any traces of the paste. In the photo above you can see eco-cleaning in action.

Learn more about how to use baking soda as a deodorant.

White Vinegar

White vinegar is another powerhouse when it comes to stain removal. Create a white vinegar solution by filling the cup with equal parts warm water and white vinegar. Allow the cup to sit for a few minutes, giving the vinegar enough time to break down the stain. After letting it soak, grab a sponge or cloth and scrub the stained area. White vinegar’s acidity will work wonders in dissolving the stain, leaving your cup spotless. To ensure no vinegar residue remains, rinse the cup thoroughly with water.

Lemon juice 

For those who prefer a more natural approach, lemon juice can be an excellent alternative for removing tea and coffee stains. Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto the stained area and let it sit for a few minutes. The natural acids in lemon juice will aid in dissolving the stain, making it easier to remove. After allowing the juice to work its magic, grab a sponge or cloth and scrub the stain vigorously. Rinse the cup well to remove any residual lemon juice.

Denture Tablets

In stubborn cases where none of the previous methods have yielded satisfactory results, denture tablets can come to the rescue. Fill the cup with warm water and drop a denture tablet into it. Allow the tablet to dissolve and let the cup soak for a few hours or overnight. The effervescent action produced by the tablet will help break down the stubborn stain. Once the soaking time has elapsed, remove the cup and rinse it thoroughly to get rid of any remaining residue.

Tips for Preventing  Coffee and Tea Stain

While these techniques are effective in removing tea and coffee stains from cups, it’s always better to prevent stains from forming in the first place. 

Practicing good preventive habits can save you the trouble of intense cleaning sessions. After each use, make it a habit to rinse your cup immediately or give it a quick wash. By doing so, you’ll limit the time for the stain-causing substances to settle and adhere to the cup’s surface. Additionally, avoid leaving tea or coffee in the cup for extended periods of time, as this can accelerate the staining process.

Now that you know how to remove tea and coffee stains from cups, you can enjoy your favorite beverages without worrying about unsightly stains.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to clean tea marks on stainless steel?

To clean tea marks on stainless steel, I suggest using a soft cloth with a mixture of warm water and dish soap. Gently scrub the surface until the stains are removed. You can also try using white vinegar, as it is effective on stainless steel surfaces. Apply the vinegar with a cloth and rinse off with water after a few minutes.

How do I get rid of tea residue from mugs without baking soda?

If you don’t have baking soda at hand, you can try using salt as a mild abrasive instead. Just sprinkle some salt on a damp cloth and scrub the stained area gently. Alternatively, you can use a mixture of white vinegar and warm water to soak the mug for a few minutes before gently scrubbing the stains.

What can I do to remove tea stains from plastic cups?

For plastic cups, I recommend using a paste made from water and baking soda. Apply the paste to the stained areas and gently scrub with a toothbrush or cloth. Rinse the cup with warm water, followed by a regular wash with soap.

How can I tackle tea stains on clothes?

To treat tea stains on clothes, I suggest using a mixture of one part white vinegar and two parts water. Soak the stained area for at least 15 minutes before rinsing with cold water. If the stain persists, you can try using a pre-treatment stain remover and then washing the garment as usual.