I love my Tervis cups. They are my go-to for keeping my drinks hot or cold for hours. However, one downside to using these cups is that they can easily get stained, especially when it comes to coffee. Coffee stains are notoriously stubborn and can ruin the look of your beloved Tervis cups. But fear not! In this article, I will share with you some simple and effective methods to easily get coffee stains out of your Tervis cups.
Why Are Tervis Cups Prone to Coffee Stains?
Have you ever wondered why coffee stains seem to love Tervis cups so much? Well, Tervis cups are made of a special material called high-quality, double-walled plastic. While this material is excellent for maintaining the temperature of your beverages, it can also make cleaning coffee stains a bit challenging. The small crevices and grooves in the cup’s surface, coupled with the porous nature of plastic, make it easy for those pesky coffee stains to linger around.
The Power of Baking Soda
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, has been a trusted household cleaning agent for ages. Its gentle abrasive properties make it an excellent choice for removing coffee stains from various surfaces, including Tervis cups. Here’s how you can utilize this common kitchen ingredient:
1. Start by rinsing your Tervis cup with warm water to remove any loose coffee grounds or residue.
2. Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda onto the stained areas of the cup. Make sure to concentrate on the coffee stains.
3. Take a damp cloth or sponge and gently scrub the stained areas using circular motions.
4. Rinse the cup thoroughly with warm water to remove any residue left behind by the baking soda.
5. Voila! Your Tervis cup should be coffee stain-free and ready to use again.
Magical Vinegar
Vinegar, another pantry staple, is a fantastic natural cleaner that can tackle a wide range of stains, including coffee. It’s acidic nature helps break down the coffee residue, making it easier to remove. Follow these steps to banish coffee stains with vinegar:
1. Create a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. You’ll only need enough to soak your Tervis cup.
2. Submerge your stained cup in the vinegar-water mixture and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes.
3. Remove the cup from the mixture and rinse it thoroughly with warm water.
4. If any stains remain, take a cloth or sponge soaked in the vinegar-water solution and gently scrub the affected areas.
5. Rinse the cup once again to remove any residue or vinegar smell.
6. Admire your freshly cleaned Tervis cup, free from coffee stains!
Lemon Juice – Nature’s Stain Remover
Lemon juice is not only a delicious addition to your refreshing beverages but also a powerful stain remover. The natural acidity in lemon juice can help break down and lift stubborn coffee stains from your Tervis cups. Try out this method:
1. Squeeze the juice of a lemon into a small bowl and add an equal amount of warm water.
2. Dip a sponge or cloth into the lemon-water solution and gently scrub the coffee-stained areas of your Tervis cup.
3. Allow the solution to sit on the stains for a few minutes.
4. Rinse the cup thoroughly with warm water to remove any residual lemon juice or coffee stains.
5. Enjoy your pristine Tervis cup, sans coffee stains!
Preventing Coffee Stains in Tervis Cups
While it’s great to know how to get rid of coffee stains when they occur, it’s even better to prevent them altogether. Here are a few tips to keep your Tervis cups looking fresh and stain-free:
1. Rinse Immediately: After finishing your cup of coffee, rinse your Tervis cup with warm water as soon as possible to prevent the coffee from setting into the plastic.
2. Try a Coating: Applying a thin layer of cooking spray or oil to the inside of your Tervis cup can create a protective barrier, making it easier to clean off any coffee stains that may form.
3. Use Dishwashing Liquid: Regularly washing your Tervis cups with dishwashing liquid and warm water can help prevent stains from becoming deeply ingrained.
4. Avoid High-Temperature Beverages: While Tervis cups are designed to withstand high and low temperatures, extremely hot beverages can cause staining. Allow your drinks to cool down a bit before pouring them into your Tervis cup.
Conclusion
Tervis cups are great for keeping your drinks at the desired temperature, but they are not invincible to coffee stains. However, by using simple household items like baking soda, vinegar, and lemon juice, you can effortlessly remove those stubborn coffee stains from your beloved Tervis cups. Remember to rinse your cups immediately after use, consider using a coating, and regularly wash them to prevent future stains. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy your coffee without worrying about the unsightly stains on your Tervis cups.