Get Rid Of Coffee Mug Stains For Good By Using Epsom Salt

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From the simple ceramic type to the large stainless steel beverage holder, coffee mugs are an essential part of many people's morning routines. Coffee mugs offer a feeling of familiarity and comfort, and can set the tone for the day because it's often the first item used in the morning. Aside from its sentimental value, some mugs have practical features, including keeping the drink warm, a large capacity, an ergonomic design, and a comfortable grip. However, because of its use, coffee mugs can get stained by the coffee, and a great way to remove the stains is by using Epsom salts.

Coffee mugs get stains from coffee because it contains tannins and chlorogenic acid. These can stick to the mug's surface, especially in porous areas, which later bind and harden to the mug material when the coffee dries. Additionally, the type of water used when making coffee can also cause stains. Due to the presence of minerals such as calcium and magnesium, hard water can alter the coffee's taste and deposit a cloudy film in coffee mugs. Amazon Basics Epsom Salt can scrub these stains and soften film by altering the pH level.

Epsom salt has many uses around the home, including as a cleaning compound because of its abrasive properties and mineral composition. While it may look like normal, edible salt, Epsom salt is not suitable for consumption or cooking as it tastes bitter, does not have sodium, and is essentially solid, crystallized magnesium sulfate. As a crystal, Epsom salt can clean surfaces because it is abrasive when it is rubbed on them; additionally, magnesium sulfate can absorb moisture and remove odors, giving a fresher clean.

How to use Epsom salts for cleaning

To clean a stained coffee mug, the Epsom salt should first be turned into a paste to make it easier to apply and scrub. The ingredients needed are Epsom salt, which can be purchased from the pharmacy or groceries, and a liquid to use as a binder, which can be vinegar, warm water, liquid soap, or even essential oils. For the materials, this would need a small bowl, a mixing spoon, and a sponge. To start, pour some of the Epsom salt into the bowl and pour a small amount of the liquid, and use the mixing spoon to blend the two ingredients. Add more liquid while mixing to reach a paste-like consistency.

Once the mixture is ready, dampen the sponge with water and scoop a small amount of the paste and scrub the mug's insides and other areas with coffee stains. Continue scouring the mug, and use more of the paste if needed, until all the coffee stains are removed. To finish cleaning the mug, simply rinse it in water. Or, use a different sponge with some liquid soap and scrub again before rinsing. For the leftover material or paste, this DIY cleaner can also be used to polish pots and pans and even clean tile grout. If Epsom salt is not available, a common kitchen staple to clean stained mugs is baking soda.

Because they're used often, coffee mugs should be rinsed and cleaned right after use. Next, doing a deep clean using Epsom salt paste once a week can help prevent stain buildup. Lastly, when not in use, storing mugs properly using a Lazy Susan hack can keep them organized without cluttering the cabinet.

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