Spoon marks on coffee cups make them look unsightly, especially when you are serving guests. In most instances, metal spoon marks on coffee cups do not disappear through normal methods of washing utensils. Regardless of how many cycles the cups go through in your dishwasher or how hard you scrub them with a dishwashing sponge, the spoon marks may remain behind. In this article, we will show you how to remove spoon marks from coffee cups.
What Causes Spoon Marks in Coffee Cups?
The spoon marks you find on your coffee cups and mugs or even plates and bowls result from silverware scratches. When a spoon scrapes across the surface of a coffee cup, it is likely to leave a trail of metal. These markings are scuff marks rather than scratches. Thus, it is possible to remove them.
Although lower-quality coffee cups are more prone to developing spoon marks, even high-quality cups may develop spoon scuff marks over time from daily use. Spoon marks stand out more against pristine white coffee cups.
How to Remove Unsightly Spoon Marks From Coffee Cups
You can try the methods below and see the one that will work for you.
Method 1- Using Pencil Eraser and Abrasive Cleaner
For this method, you will need the following supplies:
- Powdered abrasive cleaner
- Pencil eraser
- Sponge or soft cloth
- Water
Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1– In many cases, rubbing off the spoon marks with a regular pencil eraser will work, even when scouring and scrubbing fail. Try to erase the marks the same way you would erase pencil marks.
Step 2– If the eraser fails to remove the marks, try to apply a powdered abrasive cleaner. If your cup is colored, first, test the cleaner on a small spot to ensure that the coloring is not removed. To do this, mix water and the powdered abrasive cleaner to make a paste.
Step 3– Apply the paste over the spoon marks with the help of a soft sponge or cloth.
Step 4– Rub the paste over the spoon marks thoroughly with the sponge.
Step 5– Rinse off the paste with clean water.
Step 6– Repeat the process if needed and rinse the cup again.
Method 2- Using Baking Soda and Cream of Tartar
With this method, you will need the following supplies:
- Baking soda
- Cream of tartar
- Water
- Microfiber cloth
Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1– Sprinkle cream of tartar and baking soda over the marked cup surface.
Step 2– Add drops of water over the cup surface.
Step 3– Wet a microfiber cloth and rub the surface gently.
Step 4– Allow the formed paste to settle for a few minutes. Continue scrubbing gently until the scuffs disappear. In case the scuffs are thick and dark, apply some pressure while scrubbing until they disappear.
Step 5– When done, wash the cup with water and soap. Rinse the cup and enjoy the sparkling look.
Method 3- Dish Soap, Baking Soda, and Scouring Pad
You will need the following supplies:
- Liquid dish soap (use any type)
- Scouring pad (must be non-metal)
- Baking soda
Here is how to remove spoon marks from coffee cups with baking soda, dish soap, and a scouring pad:
Step 1– Make a paste by mixing 1 teaspoon of water and 2 teaspoons of baking soda.
Step 2– Apply a few drops of liquid dish soap on the scouring pad.
Step 3– Apply the paste on the affected spots.
Step 4– Scrub the cup with a non-metallic scouring pad.
Step 5– Rinse the cup thoroughly. Repeat if there are any spoon marks left.
Step 6– If you are satisfied with how the cup looks, wash it with water and soap. Then rinse it.
How to Avoid Spoon Marks in Coffee Cups
Although it may be inevitable for coffee cups to develop some scuff marks, you can take certain precautions to prevent them. For instance, avoid stirring in sugar or other sweeteners to your coffee with a metallic spoon. Also, keep cutlery and coffee cups separate in your dishwasher.
