Brenda asked: I have a Contigo coffee travel mug. It seals by a vacuum-like press. How do I clean in the tight places of the lid? I use milk in my coffee and it gets yucky. I almost need a brush the size of a cotton swab, but bendable.
Table of Contents:
Cleaning the deep grooves of travel mug lids is a common problem and reason that many travel mugs end up in the trash. Whether it’s milk or sugar for coffee or tea, when these items get trapped, they lead to mold and growth that no one wants close to their beverages. To clean these grooves we have to think outside the box and re-task our cleaning tools.
You Will Need:
- Dish soap or detergent
- Warm water
- Soft cloths
- Bottle brush (some have nipple brushes as well that are smaller)
- Small brush (such as Wilton tip brush)
Steps to Wash the Mug:
- Fill the sink with warm water.
- Add a small amount of dish soap or dish detergent.
- Agitate the water to mix until suds form.
- Place the entire cup into the water so that it is completely submerged.
- Allow the cup to soak for several minutes to loosen any dried on dirt or drinks.
- Use a soft cloth or sponge to wash the surfaces, both inside and out.
- Use the bottle brush to clean the inside of the cup/mug and remove any residue from the beverages on the bottom.
- Use a small brush to clean the grooves and tight areas in the lid. This brush is built on a wire and can be bent to reach difficult areas.
- Rinse all pieces of the cup/mug thoroughly with clean water.
- Dry with a soft cloth.
- Set it on a drying rack and allow it to air dry completely.
- If any dirt or drink residue could not be removed, place the lid (and mug/cup if metal) into the dishwasher for additional cleaning.
Additional Tips and Advice
- To remove build up, some have found it helpful to fill the mug and add a polident tablet. Allow it to soak for several hours before washing and rinsing thoroughly.
- Always store the mugs and cups with the lids removed. This will prevent moisture from becoming trapped in the cup, and ward off mold and other growth.
- Metal cups can be placed in the dishwasher along with the lids. However, painted and ceramic cups should be hand washed. All lids can be washed in the dishwasher.
