Get Rid Of The Stubborn Stains In Your Mugs With Nail Polish Remover
You might have a collection of pretty, funny, and practical mugs, but only one is your favorite, and it shows. Unfortunately, stains from your rich morning coffee or soothing afternoon tea have made it look less than appealing. But don't ditch your best-loved cup just yet.
An affordable product you might already have in your bathroom cabinet could eliminate the discoloration. Fingernail polish remover — specifically the acetone-based variety — can remove rings, marks, and deep stains quickly and almost effortlessly.
Acetone is a solvent in many industries, sometimes paint thinner, nail polish remover, and as a cleaning agent. And since it can safely clean certain materials, such as glass, metal, ceramic, and some plastics, nail polish remover might be the ideal solution for restoring your favorite mug to nearly-new condition. And the best part is that you don't need any special tools, other products, or even a lot of elbow grease to be successful.
Clean with caution
Safety is essential when cleaning with nail polish remover. For instance, you should test a small inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't cause any damage. Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area. It's also vital to avoid exposing nail polish remover to open flames or other ignition sources, as acetone is highly flammable.
When you are ready to begin cleaning your mug, start by applying a small amount of nail polish remover to a soft cloth or paper towel. Next, gently rub the stained or dirty area of the surface. Alternatively, you can pour a small amount of nail polish remover into the cup and use a cloth or sponge to scrub away the stains.
Once you have successfully removed the discoloration, wash the mug with warm, soapy water and rinse well or run it through your dishwasher to remove any remaining acetone. Allow it to dry completely before using it.
When to avoid using nail polish remover
While nail polish remover can be effective in removing stains from coffee or tea mugs, there are situations where it should be avoided. For example, if your coffee mug has a painted, printed, or decorated surface, it is best to avoid using nail polish remover to clean it. This is because nail polish remover can dissolve or damage the material and cause the design to fade or peel off.
Nail polish remover is also not recommended for use on plastic mugs. Acetone can dissolve or damage plastic material. In addition, if your coffee mug has a decorative decal or sticker, avoid using nail polish remover to clean it. Nail polish remover can dissolve the adhesive used to attach the decal or sticker and cause it to come off or become damaged.
If you have a coffee mug that isn't safe for acetone-based nail polish remover, you can try a paste made from baking soda and water instead. With these tips in mind, you can confidently say goodbye to those stubborn coffee and tea stains and keep enjoying your favorite mug for years to come.