How to Clean and Care for Your Ceramic Coffee Mug

Quick answer

Clean your ceramic coffee mug after each use with mild dish soap and a soft sponge, and tackle stubborn stains with a baking soda paste or a diluted vinegar soak.

Step-by-step care routine for ceramic mugs

1. Rinse immediately after use: Right after finishing your coffee, rinse the mug with warm water to remove leftover oils and grounds before they dry and stick. This simple habit prevents most stains from setting in.
2. Wash with mild soap and a soft sponge: Apply a drop of mild dish soap to a soft sponge or cloth and gently scrub the entire interior and exterior. Avoid steel wool or abrasive pads—they can scratch the glaze, making future stains harder to remove. Check for scratches under bright light; if you see any, switch to a non-abrasive sponge.
3. Remove stubborn stains with baking soda: For set-in coffee stains, make a paste of baking soda and a few drops of water. Rub it gently into the stain with your fingers or a soft cloth, let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
4. Deep clean with vinegar or denture tablets: If stains persist, fill the mug with equal parts white vinegar and warm water, or drop in a denture-cleaning tablet. Let it soak for 15-30 minutes, then scrub lightly and rinse well. This method also removes any musty odors. Do not use vinegar on unglazed ceramic or metallic accents—the acid can damage them.
5. Dry completely before storing: After washing, dry the mug with a clean towel or let it air dry upside down on a dish rack. Storing a damp mug can encourage mold growth and odors, especially in a closed cabinet. For insulated mugs like the Good Catch Mug, remove the lid (if applicable) and dry it separately to prevent moisture buildup.

Products mentioned

• Verve Diner Mug: Heavy ceramic, durable 10 oz with Verve logo on both sides. The robust ceramic build means it can handle regular washing, but the logo may fade if scrubbed too hard, so use a soft sponge.

  

• Good Catch Mug: 12-ounce insulated stainless steel with a soft matte finish. The matte finish and insulation require gentle cleaning to avoid scratches and maintain temperature performance.