If you’re part of the 70% of New Zealanders that drink coffee every day, you’re probably faced with the age-old question: “how often do I need to clean my coffee mug?”
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While some people may argue that frequent washing is pointless since you’re using it for the same drink everyday – Science tells us that leaving a used coffee mug to its own devices can lead to breeding ground for bacteria.
In fact, in 1997, a microbiology professor from the University of Arizona found that 41 percent of coffee mugs assessed tested positive for coliform bacteria, also known as faecal bacteria! This is especially harmful for those with weakened or compromised immune systems. The good news is the research also found that a small office cup washer (sort of like a mini dishwasher) was all it took to eradicate these and other types of bacteria.
So, how frequently do you actually need to clean your reusable coffee mug?
The short answer would be to wash it inside out daily. Think of it this way: our reusable mugs see the world. We take them in the car with us or in public transport on the way to work. We put them down on the counter in the public bathroom or in the office by our desks – these humble cups are often exposed to germs on the regular. To protect your health from colds, the flu and other infectious bacteria you need to clean your coffee mug thoroughly and regularly.
HOW TO WASH YOUR COFFEE MUG
- Always wash your mug with warm or hot water as this helps kill bacteria. (Wear gloves so you don’t dry out your hands in the hot water)
- Use an eco-friendly soap or products that contain no parabens, sulphates, or paraffins (waxes).
DIY Hack: White vinegar is an effective and natural cleaning solution. Use distilled white vinegar (¼ cup vinegar with 2 cups water) to wash and lift coffee stains.
- Stay away from communal sponges! These can often hold on to and breed germs. Experts recommend using a paper towel to wash cups. If you are using a sponge, make sure to microwave it for a minute to kill off any bacteria.
- When washing, don’t forget to clean the lid and all crevices. Pay extra attention to the edge of the mug where you put your lips, as this is where majority of bacteria likes to hang out.
- Lastly, dry your coffee mug thoroughly with a fresh paper towel, making sure no moisture is left inside the cup.
But what if I’m using my especially narrow keep cup? How do I wash the bottom of it without getting my hand stuck?
Fill your cup with hot water and soap and let it sit at the bottom to help loosen any stains. Add in 2 tablespoons of diluted white vinegar and let it sit for atleast 15 minutes. Once done, rinse thoroughly with warm water and you’re good to go!
How do I get rid of tough-to-remove stains on my mug?
According to Kitchn, the answer is baking soda. Sprinkle a little baking soda onto the bottom of your stained cup or carafe, add just enough water to form a paste, and scrub. The gentle abrasion of the baking soda will get rid of stains in a matter of minutes. Then, simply rinse and wash the way you usually would.
