How to clean the tea stains inside the teacup

Tea stains inside tea cups can be cleaned with white vinegar, baking soda, citric acid, salt, or specialized cleaning agents. Tea stains are mainly formed by the combination of tannic acid, tea polyphenols, and metal ions in tea leaves, and long-term accumulation may affect appearance and hygiene.

1. White vinegar cleaning

The acetic acid in white vinegar can dissolve the alkaline components in tea stains. Mix white vinegar and warm water in proportion, soak the tea cup, let it stand for a period of time, and then wipe it with a soft cloth. This method is suitable for ceramic and glass tea cups and has a significant effect on stubborn tea stains. After use, rinse thoroughly with clean water to avoid residual acetic acid affecting the tea taste.

2. Baking soda stain removal

The micro particles of baking soda have a physical friction effect, and its weak alkalinity can neutralize acidic substances in tea stains. Take a small amount of baking soda and add water to make a paste. Dip it in a sponge and scrub the cup wall repeatedly. Stainless steel tea cups are suitable for this method, but it is important to avoid scratching the cup body with excessive force. After cleaning, it is recommended to boil and disinfect to remove any residue.

3. Citric acid decomposition

Citric acid can undergo chelation reaction with calcium and magnesium ions in tea leaves. Fresh lemon slices can be wiped directly onto the cup wall, or soaked in food grade citric acid powder mixed with water. This method is particularly suitable for tea utensils with pores such as purple clay pots, as it can remove dirt without damaging the patina layer formed by the pot.

4. Salt Grinding

The crystal structure of salt can enhance the friction during cleaning. Sprinkle coarse salt on the tea stains and grind in circles with wet fingers or a soft cloth. This method is suitable for dealing with stubborn stains on the cup mouth, bottom, and other areas, and is safer for underglaze colored tea cups. After cleaning, it is necessary to check for any salt residue to prevent excessive sodium intake during subsequent use.

5. Special cleaning agent

Commercial tea cleaning agents contain surfactants and chelating agents. Dilute according to the instructions and soak, which can quickly decompose tea stains that have been deposited for many years. After use, rinse repeatedly. For sensitive individuals, it is recommended to choose fragrance free products. Be careful to avoid mixing with bleach, and confirm the material tolerance of plastic tea cups.

Daily maintenance tea cups are recommended to be rinsed promptly after each use and thoroughly cleaned once a week. Avoid scratching with hard objects such as steel wire balls, and use corresponding methods for tea sets made of different materials. Special tea utensils such as purple clay pots need to be dried in the shade after cleaning and should not be exposed to direct sunlight. Tea cups that are not used for a long time should be stored dry, as new tea stains are easier to remove than old ones. If tea stains have penetrated into the cracks of the cup body or caused discoloration, professional repair treatment may be required.