How to Care for Your Tiki Mugs

Tiki mugs are more than just cocktail vessels—they're collectible pieces of art. Whether you're a home bartender, a serious collector, or somewhere in between, proper care helps preserve their vibrant glazes, detailed sculpting, and value. A little thoughtful maintenance ensures your mugs stay beautiful for years of tropical drinks and display.

Hand Washing: The Golden Rule

Wash your Tiki mugs by hand using lukewarm water and a mild, non-abrasive soap.
Gently clean both inside and out with a soft sponge or cloth—never use steel wool or harsh scrubbers.
Avoid letting mugs soak for long periods, especially if they are vintage or have fine cracks.

Dishwasher? Think Twice

Despite modern ceramic glazes, most Tiki mugs do best outside of the dishwasher. High heat and aggressive detergents can dull the finish, erode painted details, and weaken kiln-fired decoration, especially on mugs with metallic or hand-painted accents.

Skip the dishwasher—even if labeled 'dishwasher safe,' hand washing is gentler for detailed mugs.
If you must use a dishwasher occasionally, place mugs on the top rack and choose a delicate cycle. Check for manufacturer guidelines first.

Proper Drying and Storage

Dry mugs immediately after washing with a soft, lint-free towel to prevent water spots.
Let mugs air dry fully before stacking or storing them away, especially on glazed surfaces.
Display mugs on sturdy shelves, ideally upright and with space around each one to avoid chips.

What to Avoid When Cleaning Tiki Mugs

No bleach, heavy-duty detergents, or abrasive cleaners—these can ruin glazes and artwork.
Don’t use boiling-hot water, especially with vintage mugs or those with visible hairline cracks.
Avoid soaking wooden or bamboo mug accessories, which can warp or split.

Tips for Collectors and Enthusiasts

Rotate your display occasionally to prevent sun fading or dust accumulation.
For rare or high-value mugs, consider using individual display cases to minimize accidental knocks.
If a mug chips or cracks, store it away from daily use to avoid further damage.

Quick Troubleshooting: Stains, Odors, and Restoration

For tea or citrus stains inside a mug, try a paste of baking soda (5 ml) mixed with water. Gently scrub and rinse thoroughly.
Persistent odors can often be removed by soaking with a solution of 30 ml white vinegar in 200 ml water for 15–20 minutes, then rinsing well.
If detailed paint is fading, avoid further scrubbing and reserve the mug for display rather than drink service.