How to Remove Lipstick Stains From Your Ceramic Mugs

Photo taken by: Kelly Sikkema

Table of Contents

• Introduction

• Why Lipstick Stains Are So Stubborn

• 10 Effective Methods to Remove Lipstick Stains

  • 1. Baking Soda Paste Method

  • 2. Vinegar Soak Solution

  • 3. Magic Eraser Method

  • 4. Denture Cleaning Tablets

  • 5. Hydrogen Peroxide Solution

  • 6. Nail Polish Remover (Acetone)

  • 7. Dishwasher with Citrus-Based Detergent

  • 8. Oxygen Bleach Soak

  • 9. Toothpaste Scrub

  • 10. Commercial Ceramic Cleaners

• Prevention Tips: Keeping Your Mugs Lipstick-Free

• Frequently Asked Questions

  • What happens if you put a non-dishwasher safe mug in the dishwasher?

  • What is the difference between cracking and crazing?

  • Is there a way to fix a cracked mug?

  • How to tell if a coffee mug is dishwasher safe?

• Conclusion

• Where to buy luxuriously modern mugs. Spoiler, its Pandorras Box. Click here to shop the exclusive modern mug collection so you can spruce up your ceramic collection.

Introduction to Removing Lipstick Stains From Your Mug

That perfect morning ritual: brewing your favorite single-origin coffee, pouring it into your cherished ceramic mug, and taking that first, restorative sip. There's just one problem—when you glance down at your mug afterward, you see it. That all-too-familiar crimson crescent moon has appeared once again on the rim of your favorite mug.

For coffee enthusiasts who wear lipstick, this scenario plays out daily. Despite your best efforts, those stubborn stains seem determined to leave their mark on your prized drinkware collection. Whether you've invested in artisanal handcrafted ceramic mugs, treasure family heirlooms, or simply have a favorite that fits your hand just right, lipstick stains can be particularly frustrating—especially when conventional washing methods fail to remove them.

The good news? You don't have to choose between wearing your signature lip color and maintaining a pristine mug collection. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore multiple effective methods to banish those persistent lipstick marks from your ceramic mugs. From everyday household ingredients to specialized cleaning solutions, you'll discover a range of options to suit your preferences, time constraints, and the specific needs of your ceramic collection.

By the time you finish reading, you'll be equipped with everything you need to know to keep your mugs looking immaculate, regardless of how often you enjoy your coffee while wearing your favorite shade of lipstick.

Having a hard time choosing the right mug shape for your next purchase? Read our article here on 5 different ceramic mug shapes so you can finally make that purchase!

Why Lipstick Stains Are So Stubborn

Before diving into removal techniques, it helps to understand why lipstick stains are particularly challenging. Modern lipsticks are formulated with:

• Waxes and oils that create a hydrophobic barrier

• Pigments designed for long-lasting color that resists fading

• Polymers that help lipstick adhere to surfaces

These same qualities that keep lipstick looking fresh on your lips also make it cling tenaciously to your ceramic mugs. The porous nature of ceramic material compounds the problem by allowing these ingredients to penetrate the surface.

Stuck trying to find space for all your mugs? Read our article here on how to organize mugs in your kitchen so you can finally have that clean and organized kitchen you always wanted.

10 Effective Methods to Remove Lipstick Stains from Ceramic Mugs

Photo taken by: Nathan Dumlao

1. Baking Soda Paste Method

Baking soda's mild abrasive properties make it excellent for tackling lipstick stains without scratching your ceramic.

What you'll need:

• 2 tablespoons baking soda

• Water

• Soft cloth or sponge

Steps:

1. Mix baking soda with just enough water to form a thick paste

2. Apply the paste to the lipstick stain

3. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes

4. Gently scrub with a soft cloth or sponge

5. Rinse thoroughly with warm water

This method works particularly well on fresh stains and is safe for most ceramic finishes.

2. Vinegar Soak Solution

Photo taken by: Bulbul Ahmed

White vinegar's acidic properties help break down the oils in lipstick, making stains easier to remove.

What you'll need:

• White vinegar

• Warm water

• Container large enough to submerge your mug

Steps:

1. Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water

2. Submerge your stained mug completely

3. Allow to soak for 2-4 hours (overnight for stubborn stains)

4. Scrub gently with a soft sponge

5. Wash with dish soap and rinse thoroughly

The vinegar smell will dissipate once the mug is properly rinsed and dried.

Are you tired of having those annoying coffee stains all over your favorite mugs? Read our article here on what causes annoying coffee stains and how to prevent them so you can go back to having a pristine mug collection!

3. Magic Eraser Method

Melamine foam erasers can be remarkably effective on ceramic surfaces.

What you'll need:

• Melamine foam eraser (like Mr. Clean Magic Eraser)

• Water

Steps:

1. Wet the eraser and squeeze out excess water

2. Gently rub the stained area

3. Rinse the mug thoroughly

4. Wash with dish soap afterward to remove any residue

Note: Use light pressure to avoid wearing down the ceramic's glaze.

4. Denture Cleaning Tablets

Photo taken by: Pina Messina

These effervescent tablets are designed to remove stains from dentures but work wonderfully on ceramic too.

What you'll need:

• Denture cleaning tablets

• Warm water

• Container large enough for your mug

Steps:

1. Fill the container with warm water

2. Add 1-2 denture cleaning tablets

3. Submerge your mug completely

4. Let it soak for 30 minutes to 2 hours

5. Rinse thoroughly and wash with dish soap

This method is particularly effective for older, set-in stains.

Since we’re on the topic of protecting mugs, read our article here on how to stop mugs from cracking in your microwave so you can keep it longer!

5. Hydrogen Peroxide Solution

Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleaching agent that can lift lipstick stains without damaging ceramic.

What you'll need:

• 3% hydrogen peroxide

• Soft cloth

• Baking soda (optional)

Steps:

1. Dampen a cloth with hydrogen peroxide

2. Apply directly to the stain

3. Let sit for 5-10 minutes

4. For stubborn stains, make a paste with baking soda

5. Rinse thoroughly with warm water

This method is especially effective for red or dark-colored lipstick stains.

6. Nail Polish Remover (Acetone)

Photo taken by: Rashid Khreiss

For truly stubborn stains, acetone can break down the oils and pigments in lipstick.

What you'll need:

• Acetone-based nail polish remover

• Cotton balls or cloth

• Dish soap

Steps:

1. Apply a small amount of acetone to a cotton ball

2. Gently rub the stained area

3. Wash thoroughly with dish soap immediately after

4. Rinse several times to remove all acetone residue

Caution: Only use this method on plain white ceramic mugs without decorations, as acetone can remove painted designs and patterns.

7. Dishwasher with Citrus-Based Detergent

Photo taken by: Precious Plastic Melbourne

For dishwasher-safe mugs, a citrus-based detergent can help dissolve lipstick stains.

What you'll need:

• Citrus-based dishwasher detergent

• Dishwasher

Steps:

1. Verify your mug is dishwasher-safe

2. Place on the top rack

3. Use a citrus-based dishwasher detergent

4. Run on a normal or heavy cycle with hot water

The citrus oils in the detergent help break down the waxy components in lipstick.

Have you ever wondered how your mug was actually made? Read our article here on how ceramic mugs are made so you know the journey it took for that mug to make it to your stylish kitchen.

8. Oxygen Bleach Soak

Oxygen bleach is gentler than chlorine bleach and safe for most ceramics.

What you'll need:

• Oxygen bleach (like OxiClean)

• Hot water

• Container for soaking

Steps:

1. Dissolve oxygen bleach in hot water according to package directions

2. Submerge the mug completely

3. Allow to soak for 4-6 hours or overnight

4. Rinse thoroughly and wash with dish soap

This method is particularly effective for multiple stained mugs.

9. Toothpaste Scrub

Photo taken by: Atikha Akhtar

Regular white toothpaste (not gel) contains mild abrasives that can help remove lipstick stains.

What you'll need:

• White toothpaste (not gel)

• Old toothbrush or soft cloth

• Warm water

Steps:

1. Apply toothpaste directly to the stain

2. Gently scrub with a toothbrush or cloth

3. Let sit for 5-10 minutes

4. Rinse thoroughly with warm water

The mild abrasives in toothpaste lift the stain without scratching your ceramic.

10. Commercial Ceramic Cleaners

Photo taken by: Sixteen Miles Out

Specialty products designed specifically for ceramic can be very effective.

What you'll need:

• Ceramic-specific cleaner (like Bar Keepers Friend)

• Soft cloth or sponge

• Rubber gloves (recommended)

Steps:

1. Apply cleaner according to package directions

2. Allow to sit for the recommended time

3. Scrub gently with a soft cloth or sponge

4. Rinse thoroughly

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and test on a small, inconspicuous area first.

Prevention Tips: Keeping Your Mugs Lipstick-Free

Immediate Rinsing

The simplest prevention method is to rinse your mug immediately after use. Even a quick rinse with hot water can prevent lipstick from setting into the ceramic.

Apply Lip Balm Before Lipstick

Using lip balm under your lipstick not only protects your lips but can make the lipstick less likely to transfer to your mug.

Blot Lips Before Drinking

A quick blot of your lips with a tissue before drinking can remove excess lipstick that would otherwise transfer to your mug.

Consider a Clear Lip Seal Product

There are products specifically designed to seal lipstick and prevent transfer. These can be especially helpful if you frequently struggle with lipstick stains.

Use a Straw

For cold coffee drinks, using a straw can prevent lipstick from contacting your mug altogether.

Invest in Lipstick-Resistant Mugs

Some premium ceramic mugs feature specialized glazes that resist staining better than standard ceramics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if you put a non-dishwasher safe mug in the dishwasher?

Putting a non-dishwasher safe mug in the dishwasher can lead to several issues:

• Fading of designs or patterns due to the harsh detergents

• Crazing (tiny cracks in the glaze) from temperature extremes

• Discoloration of the ceramic material

• Chipping or cracking from contact with other items during the wash cycle

• Damage to special finishes like matte glazes or metallic accents

Hand-washing is always recommended for mugs not specifically labeled as dishwasher-safe.

What is the difference between cracking and crazing?

While both affect ceramic mugs, cracking and crazing are distinct issues:

Cracking:

• Complete breaks in the ceramic body itself

• Typically larger and more visible

• Makes the mug unstable and potentially unsafe to use

• Often caused by impact or extreme temperature changes

Crazing:

• Fine, web-like lines that appear only in the glaze layer

• Typically doesn't affect the structural integrity of the mug

• Often appears as a network of tiny lines resembling a spiderweb

• Caused by the glaze contracting more than the clay body beneath it

• Can develop over time or be triggered by temperature fluctuations

While crazed mugs are generally safe to use, the tiny fissures can harbor bacteria and stains, making them harder to clean over time.

Is there a way to fix a cracked mug?

While a professionally repaired mug should never be used for drinking again, there are methods to repair cracked mugs for decorative purposes:

For hairline cracks:

1. Clean and dry the mug thoroughly

2. Apply food-safe epoxy along the crack

3. Hold pieces together firmly until set

4. Allow to cure completely per product instructions

For clean breaks:

1. Clean both broken edges

2. Apply ceramic adhesive to both surfaces

3. Press pieces together firmly

4. Secure with tape while drying

5. Remove excess adhesive once partially set

Important safety note: Even after repair, cracked mugs should not be used for hot beverages or food, as:

• Repairs may leach chemicals into your drink

• The structural integrity is permanently compromised

• Bacteria can grow in microscopic crevices that cannot be properly cleaned

Consider repurposed cracked mugs as pen holders, plant pots, or decorative items instead.

How to tell if a coffee mug is dishwasher safe?

To determine if your mug is dishwasher safe:

1. Look for a symbol - A dishwasher-safe symbol (typically resembling a plate or dishes with water droplets) indicates the item can be safely cleaned in a dishwasher

2. Check packaging - Original packaging often states whether the item is dishwasher-safe

3. Read the bottom - Many mugs have care instructions stamped on the bottom

4. Consider the material and features:

   • Plain ceramic mugs without decorations are typically dishwasher-safe

   • Hand-painted designs are often not dishwasher-safe

   • Metallic accents or trims generally indicate hand-wash only

   • Mugs with adhesive elements should be hand-washed

If you can't determine whether your mug is dishwasher-safe, err on the side of caution and hand-wash it to preserve its appearance and longevity.

Conclusion

Lipstick stains don't have to spell doom for your favorite ceramic mugs. With these ten effective removal methods and preventative strategies, you can keep your coffee collection looking pristine. From everyday household items like baking soda and vinegar to specialized cleaning products, you now have multiple options to tackle even the most stubborn lipstick marks.

Remember that the best approach is often the gentlest one that works—start with milder methods before progressing to stronger solutions. Regular maintenance and proper care will extend the life and beauty of your ceramic mugs, ensuring they remain perfect companions for your daily coffee ritual.

For more tips on caring for your premium ceramic collection, explore our other articles on proper storage, handling delicate handcrafted pieces, and selecting the perfect mug for different coffee preparations.