If you drink coffee daily, you’ve probably noticed dark brown stains building up inside your favorite mug.
Coffee stains are not just unsightly—they can also leave a bitter taste in your next drink and hold onto odors over time.
The good news is : You don’t need harsh chemicals to clean coffee stains from mugs.
In this guide, we’ll show you the most effective, safe, and affordable methods to remove both fresh and old coffee stains from ceramic, stainless steel, plastic, and travel mugs.
Why Do Coffee Stains Stick to Mugs?
Coffee contains tannins—natural compounds that stick to porous surfaces like ceramic and plastic.
Over time, heat and repeated use make these stains darker and harder to remove.
Regular dish soap often isn’t strong enough to break down deep-set tannin stains.
5 Best Methods to Remove Coffee Stains from Mug
1.Baking Soda + Water (The #1 Most Popular Method)
Baking soda is mildly abrasive and deodorizes—perfect for lifting coffee stains without scratching mugs.
- Rinse the mug with warm water.
- Add 2–3 teaspoons of baking soda inside the mug.
- Add a small amount of water to make a thick paste.
- Scrub gently with a sponge or brush for 30–60 seconds.
- Let sit for 5 minutes for old stains.
- Rinse thoroughly.
Result: Stains disappear completely, even on white ceramic mugs.
2.White Vinegar Soak (Great for Stubborn Stains)
Vinegar breaks down tannins and dissolves mineral buildup alongside coffee stains.
- Fill the mug half with warm water.
- Add ¼ cup white vinegar.
- Let soak for 15–30 minutes.
- Scrub lightly and rinse.
For extra-old stains: let soak overnight.
3.Lemon + Salt (Natural Fresh-Smelling Method)
Lemon’s acid cuts stains; salt acts as a gentle abrasive.
- Cut a lemon in half.
- Dip the lemon in coarse salt.
- Scrub the inside of the mug firmly.
- Let sit 5 minutes, then rinse.
Leaves your mug smelling fresh and clean.
The article “How to Clean a Stainless Steel Tumbler” also provides a very detailed cleaning method. Click to read the full guide.
4.Denture Tablets (Magic for Travel Mugs & Lids)
Denture cleaners are amazing for tight spaces, straws, and lids.
Steps:
- Fill the mug with warm water.
- Drop in 1 denture tablet.
- Let fizz for 15 minutes.
- Empty, rinse, and dry.
Perfect for stainless steel travel mugs and plastic lids.
5.Hydrogen Peroxide (For Very Dark, Old Stains)
Use only on white ceramic mugs—not colored or metal.
- Add 2–3 tablespoons hydrogen peroxide.
- Mix with 1 teaspoon baking soda.
- Scrub, wait 5 minutes, rinse.
How to Clean Different Types of Mugs
How to Clean Different Types of Mugs
Ceramic Mugs
- Safe for: baking soda, vinegar, lemon, dish soap
- Avoid heavy scouring pads that can scratch glaze
Stainless Steel Travel Mugs
- Safe: baking soda, vinegar, denture tablets
- Do NOT use metal scrubbers or bleach
Plastic Mugs
- Safe: warm water + baking soda
- Avoid hot water and harsh chemicals
Pro Tips to Prevent Coffee Stains in Mugs
- Rinse your mug immediately after drinking—stains set when dry.
- Deep clean once a week to prevent buildup.
- Use a soft bottle brush for hard-to-reach areas.
- Avoid leaving coffee in mugs overnight.
