Updated on: 6/8/2025
How to Properly Clean and Maintain a Julep Cup
A julep cup is more than a vessel—it's a staple of classic cocktail service, crafted to keep your drinks ice-cold and looking elegant. Whether yours is sterling silver, silver-plated, or stainless steel, careful cleaning and regular maintenance will extend its shine and performance year after year.
Why Proper Julep Cup Care Matters
Silver and stainless steel julep cups develop a beautiful, frosty exterior only if their surfaces are clean and free of residue. Tarnish isn’t just cosmetic: it can subtly alter the taste and aroma of your mint julep and other cold cocktails. Regular, correct care prevents discoloration, pitting, or loss of shine.
Steps for Cleaning a Julep Cup
- Wash the julep cup by hand with warm water and a small amount of mild, non-citrus dish soap.
- Use a soft sponge or cloth—never anything abrasive or metallic, which can scratch the surface.
- Rinse thoroughly under warm running water to remove any soap residue.
- Dry the julep cup immediately and completely with a soft, lint-free towel. Air-drying can lead to water spots or encourage tarnish on silver.
Avoid running julep cups through the dishwasher. Harsh detergents, extreme heat, and water pressure can permanently dull or pit silver and many metals. Dishwashers also cause handles and delicate rims to warp over time.
Ongoing Maintenance for Your Julep Cup
- Polish silver julep cups every few months with a dedicated silver polish and a clean, soft cloth. Stainless steel cups require less frequent polishing but still benefit from gentle buffing to restore shine.
- Store julep cups in a dry place, ideally in a soft bag or cloth-lined drawer to protect the surface.
- If tarnish develops, use a paste of baking soda and water (for silver only) or a specialty cleaner, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
Do not leave acidic cocktail remnants (like citrus or berry syrups) in the cup for long periods. Wash immediately after use to preserve both flavor and shine.
Troubleshooting Common Julep Cup Issues
- Tarnished silver: treat with a gentle silver polish, rinse, and dry thoroughly.
- Dull stainless steel: buff with a microfiber cloth and a tiny drop of olive oil for shine (then clean with mild soap and water).
- Persistent stains: soak with warm water and baking soda for 5–10 minutes, then gently rub with a soft cloth.
Routine hand washing, quick drying, and occasional polishing keep your julep cups ready for mint juleps, whiskey smashes, or any iced cocktail that deserves a perfect presentation.
