How to Clean and Care for Your Death Wish Coffee Mug
By #1 Organic and #1 Fair Trade Coffee | Published: 2026-10-16
Category: Tips & Care
Keep your 2026 Death Wish Coffee Mug looking sharp with a simple hand-wash routine that prevents stains and protects the tri-color glaze.
Quick answer
Hand wash your Death Wish Coffee Mug with warm water, a drop of mild dish soap, and a soft sponge. Rinse and dry it immediately. This protects the handcrafted tri-color glaze and keeps the mug looking new. Avoid abrasive scrubbers and harsh chemicals, which can dull the finish or fade any design.
Why hand washing matters for a handcrafted mug
The 2026 Death Wish Coffee Mug is a limited-edition piece with a never-before-seen tri-color glaze and a new shape designed with Deneen Pottery. Handcrafted glazes can be more sensitive to harsh dishwasher detergents and high heat than standard commercial finishes. Hand washing preserves the depth of color and the crisp look of the glaze. It also reduces the risk of micro-chipping that can happen when mugs knock against each other in the dishwasher rack.
Everyday care to prevent stains and odors
Rinse your mug as soon as you finish your coffee. Leaving coffee residue to dry inside the cup gives tannins time to bond with the ceramic surface, making stains harder to remove later. If you can't wash it right away, fill it with warm water and let it sit until you can. A quick rinse now saves scrubbing later.
- Rinse immediately after use to stop stains from setting.
- Never leave coffee sitting in the mug overnight.
- Store the mug upside down or on a shelf to keep dust out.
Deep cleaning for stubborn coffee stains
For stains that have already set, make a paste of baking soda and a little water. Apply it to the stained area with your finger or a soft cloth, let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then gently rub and rinse. Baking soda is mildly abrasive but safe for glazed ceramic. Avoid bleach or abrasive cleansers, which can scratch the glaze and leave a dull spot.
Dishwasher guidance and what to avoid
The catalog does not state whether the 2026 Death Wish Coffee Mug is dishwasher safe. Because it is a limited-edition handcrafted piece with a custom glaze, the safest approach is to hand wash it. If you choose to use a dishwasher, place it on the top rack and use a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Skip heated drying, which can be too harsh for decorative glazes. Never use scouring pads, steel wool, or cleansers containing bleach or citrus acids.
Step-by-step mug cleaning routine
- Rinse immediately after use: As soon as you finish your coffee, rinse the mug with warm water to remove loose grounds and oils. This stops tannins from settling into the glaze. Checkpoint: If you can't wash it right away, fill it with warm water and leave it until you can.
- Wash with mild soap and a soft sponge: Add a drop of mild dish soap to warm water. Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently wipe the inside and outside. Do not use abrasive scrubbers or steel wool. Common mistake: Using a scouring pad can scratch the glaze and dull the tri-color finish.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately: Rinse the mug under warm running water until all soap is gone. Dry it with a soft towel right away to prevent water spots and mineral buildup. Checkpoint: If you see water spots, a quick wipe with a dry cloth removes them before they set.
- Deep clean stains with baking soda paste: For set-in stains, mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste. Apply to the stain, wait 10–15 minutes, then gently rub with a soft cloth and rinse. Common mistake: Leaving the paste on too long or scrubbing hard can wear down the glaze over time.
- Store with care: Keep your mug in a dry cabinet. If stacking, place a soft cloth or paper towel between mugs to prevent scratches. Avoid hanging by the handle if it could stress the joint. Checkpoint: A little padding prevents chips and keeps the handcrafted shape intact.
Product facts
- 2026 Death Wish Coffee Mug: The 2026 Death Wish Coffee Mug is a limited-edition, handcrafted mug with a never-before-seen tri-color glaze and a new shape designed in collaboration with Deneen Pottery. Handcrafted glazes can be more delicate than standard finishes, so gentle hand washing helps preserve the unique look.
