Over time, tea cups and mugs, especially those made of porcelain and glass, can develop stubborn brown stains at the bottom, on the lids, or around the handles. These stains can be challenging to remove, and using harsh chemicals may damage the glaze and leave an unpleasant odor.
To tackle this issue, consider the following simple yet effective tricks:
1. Toothpaste
For this method, you’ll need toothpaste, a toothbrush, and clean water. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Rinse the cup or mug with water. Apply toothpaste to the toothbrush and gently scrub the stained areas.
Step 2: Rinse the cup again and repeat the scrubbing process with the toothbrush and toothpaste.
Step 3: Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean cloth. You’ll notice a significant improvement in the appearance of your cups and mugs.
2. Salt
Salt is a cheap, readily available, and harmless ingredient for this purpose. Here’s how to use it:
Step 1: Sprinkle salt on a damp sponge or dishcloth. Directly scrub the stained areas with the salted sponge.
Step 2: Rinse the cup or mug with clean water. If the stains are still visible, repeat the process.
3. Turmeric
Step 1: Mix 3 tablespoons of turmeric powder into 1 liter of water and soak the cups, mugs, or teapots in this solution for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Rinse them with clean water. Turmeric contains Curcumin, a natural compound known for its cleaning properties and health benefits.
4. Baking Soda
Also known as sodium bicarbonate, baking soda is a mild alkali used for whitening and oxidation prevention.
Step 1: Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda into 1 liter of water and soak the cups or mugs for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Rinse them with clean water.
5. Lemon or Vinegar
Both lemon and vinegar contain acidic compounds that effectively remove stains and grime.
If using lemon:
Step 1: Cut a lemon in half and rub the cut side onto the stained areas.
Step 2: Soak the cup or mug in hot water for about 5 minutes, then rinse. This will leave your cups and mugs clean and smelling fresh.
If using vinegar:
Step 1: Pour vinegar into a small basin and soak the cups, mugs, or teapots for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Rinse with warm water and soak again in warm water for 20 minutes. Ensure to dry them thoroughly to eliminate the vinegar smell.
Source: thoidaiplus