How to Wash Travel Mugs in Dishwasher

Can You Put Travel Mugs in the Dishwasher?

It depends on the mug. Some travel mugs are fully dishwasher safe, while others — particularly vacuum-insulated stainless steel mugs — can be permanently damaged by dishwasher heat. Always check the manufacturer label before loading a travel mug in the dishwasher.

Which Travel Mugs Are Dishwasher Safe

• Plastic travel mugs labeled dishwasher safe: Top rack only
• Ceramic travel mugs: Usually dishwasher safe — check the label
• Some stainless steel travel mugs: Single-wall stainless mugs are often dishwasher safe; double-wall vacuum-insulated mugs usually are not

Which Travel Mugs Should Not Go in the Dishwasher

• Double-wall vacuum insulated mugs (Yeti, Stanley, Contigo, Hydro Flask, etc.): The high heat of the dishwasher can break down the vacuum seal between the walls, permanently destroying the insulation. Your mug will no longer keep drinks hot or cold.
• Mugs with painted or printed exteriors: The decoration fades and peels
• Mugs with rubber or silicone grip sleeves that are glued on: The adhesive breaks down in the dishwasher

How to Wash Travel Mugs in the Dishwasher

1. Check the Label First

Look for a dishwasher-safe symbol on the bottom of the mug. If there is no symbol, hand wash to be safe.

2. Disassemble Completely

• Remove the lid and all its components — most travel mug lids have a sliding or flip mechanism with a gasket or seal inside
• Remove the gasket or rubber seal from the lid — coffee residue and mold hide here
• Remove any straw or straw cap

3. Top Rack Only

• Place the mug body upside down on the top rack
• Place the lid and small parts in a dishwasher basket to keep them secure
• Never put travel mugs on the bottom rack — the heat warps plastic and can damage seals

4. Use a Normal Cycle

• A normal wash cycle is sufficient for travel mugs
• Avoid the sanitize or high-temperature cycle for insulated or plastic mugs

5. Air Dry Completely Before Reassembling

• Moisture trapped inside the lid mechanism or gasket encourages mold growth
• Allow all parts to air dry fully before reassembling and storing

How to Hand Wash Insulated Travel Mugs

For vacuum-insulated mugs that should not go in the dishwasher:

• Fill the mug with warm soapy water and shake vigorously
• Use a bottle brush to scrub the interior
• Remove and scrub the gasket separately
• Rinse thoroughly and air dry upside down

The OXO Good Grips Dish Brush works well for scrubbing travel mug interiors and is safe for non-stick and stainless steel surfaces.

Removing Coffee and Tea Stains From Travel Mugs

• Fill the mug with a mixture of warm water and baking soda and let it soak for 30 minutes
• Alternatively, use a denture cleaning tablet dissolved in warm water for stubborn stains
• Rinse thoroughly after soaking

Final Tips

• Always check the label — vacuum insulated mugs are usually hand wash only
• Disassemble completely and wash the gasket separately
• Top rack only for dishwasher-safe mugs
• Air dry all parts before reassembling to prevent mold