How to Remove Tea Stains From Plastic Cups

Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Tea is a hot beverage that over time can leave unsightly brown stains on your favorite plastic cups. Usual methods of cleaning, such as warm water and dish soap, are not enough to remove this tough stain, and scrubbing with steel wool may leave deep scratch marks. Chlorine bleach is effective, but will fade colors and degrade plastic over time. Baking soda is a safer, more environmental friendly substance that effectively removes most tea stains from plastic cups without any risk of damage.

Advertisement

Step 1

Dampen a cleaning rag with warm water and sprinkle 2 tbsp. of baking soda onto the rag.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Wash the cup with the cloth, paying special attention to stained areas. Rinse well and wipe dry if all stains have been removed.

Step 3

Fill the cup with warm water and 2 tbsp. of baking soda if washing the cup was not effective.

Advertisement

Step 4

Allow the solution to remain in the cup for half an hour to an hour.

Step 5

Examine the cup and repeat the process if necessary.

Step 6

Rinse clean and wipe dry when all stains are gone.

Video of the Day

Advertisement

Advertisement

Report an Issue

screenshot of the current page

Screenshot loading...