We all have that go-to mug—the one that makes your morning tea taste better, keeps you company during late-night study sessions, and adds a comforting touch to your work desk. More than just a cup, it is part of your daily routine. But like anything we rely on, it needs a little extra care to stay longer.
Here’s a no-fuss guide to help your favourite mug stay in great shape for years to come:

Why Ceramic Drinkware Needs Special Care?

Made of natural clay and minerals, ceramic drinkware is high quality but relatively delicate. Ceramic cups, mugs, teacups, and coffee mugs become chipped, cracked, or discoloured if not maintained properly. Being porous, ceramics tend to absorb liquids, stains, and even flavours which may remain after cleaning. This form of absorption is likely to result in unwanted discolouration with an unpleasant taste in your next drink if proper care is not taken.

Additionally, ceramic drinkware is sensitive to rapid temperature changes; for example, pouring a hot liquid into a cold mug may cause cracking or break the piece completely. Ceramic glaze, which offers that shiny, beautiful finish, can become damaged if improperly cleaned or subjected to high heat. High-quality ceramic drinkware lasts for many years, retaining its visual and functional appeal if the care is proper. However, it may easily deteriorate much faster if not properly handled or stored.

Cleaning Your Ceramic Cups and Mugs: A Gentle Process

Handwash vs. Dishwasher:

• Handwashing is best to take care of the glaze and finish on your ceramic mugs.

• Clean with mild soap and warm water.

• If washing in a dishwasher, place mugs on the top rack and use a gentle cycle so as not to get ruined by scorching heat and friction.

• Opt for gentle, nonabrasive cleaners to avoid wearing down the surface.
  

Tips to Get Rid of Stubborn Stains:

• For stains from coffee or tea use baking soda or vinegar.

• Mix water with baking soda to create a paste, rub a little gently with a soft cloth or sponge.

• You can also apply vinegar to remove discolouration; however, rinse thoroughly to get rid of the vinegar odour.

• Do not use abrasive sponges or brushes since they might ruin the paint of designs or the glaze.
  

How to Clean Specialized Ceramic Drinkware:

• Handle hand-painted or artisanal mugs with extreme care.

• Follow the manufacturer's care instructions for delicate pieces.

• Gently handwash these mugs and avoid aggressive scrubbing or harsh detergents to protect the designs and colours.
  

Handling and Storage of Your Ceramic Mugs and Cups

Proper storage and handling of your ceramic drinkware can avoid accidental damage and keep its charm for years.
Proper Handling to Avoid Damage:

Be careful when handling ceramic mugs, especially those with fine finishes or detailed designs. Always support the handle and the base to avoid putting strain on the mug’s body. Even a small drop or bump can cause chips or cracks. If you have mugs from special collections, take extra care to avoid contact with hard surfaces or other items that might damage them.

Efficient Storage Tips:

• Store the ceramic mugs in a dry, secure place to keep them in good condition.

• Your mugs should be displayed within a glass-front cabinet or on a shelf to prevent them from unwanted knocks.

• Ensure that the storage area is free from moisture to avoid erosion of the ceramic eventually.

• Avoid stacking mugs on top of each other to prevent scratching or chipping.

• Store the mugs with enough space between them to facilitate adequate air circulation.
  

Preventing Thermal Shock in Ceramic Cups and Mugs

One common reason for damage to ceramic drinkware is thermal shock. This happens when a ceramic mug undergoes extreme abrupt temperature differences, resulting in cracks or breakage.

Understanding What is Thermal Shock

Thermal shock is one when hot liquid is poured into a cold ceramic mug or vice versa, with a hot mug being put on a very cold surface.
The rapid change in temperature makes the ceramic material expand or contract too fast and, thus, causes cracks. Fine ceramic mugs would be the most vulnerable to these due to lesser resistance compared to mass-produced ones.

Best Practices to Avoid Cracking:

• Do not pour a hot liquid into a cold ceramic mug.

• Fill your mug with warm water beforehand to prevent thermal shock, thus pre-warming it before adding hot beverages.

• Specialty or artisanal mugs need to be handled even more carefully because of the delicate craftsmanship with which they are made.

• Do not put hot mugs on cold surfaces such as countertops and refrigerators. Let your mug cool slowly so it won't crack. 

Longevity of Your Ceramic Mugs and Teacups

If well cared for, your ceramic mugs and teacups can last for decades with no loss of aesthetic appeal or functionality.

Maintaining the Glaze and Finish:

The glaze on ceramic mugs isn’t just decorative—it helps protect the surface from stains and wear. To keep the glaze intact, avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools. Stick to gentle cleaning methods, and minimise prolonged exposure to high heat or direct sunlight, which can weaken the glaze over time.

Regular Inspections:

Regularly check your ceramic mugs for any signs of damage. Small cracks or chips can grow worse if ignored, so it’s best to catch them early. If you use ceramic mugs purely for decoration, inspect them occasionally to ensure they remain in good condition. Regular checks help you spot minor issues and address them before they become bigger problems.

Special Care Tips for Artistic and Handcrafted Ceramic Drinkware

Artisan ceramic drinkware, especially hand-painted or custom-designed pieces, requires extra attention to maintain its unique details and craftsmanship. These items are often more delicate than standard mugs, so careful handling is essential.

Care for Artisan Pieces:

When handling handcrafted or artistically designed ceramic mugs, always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. Many brands provide guidelines that ensure their pieces remain beautiful and functional for years. These mugs may be more delicate than mass-produced ones, so it’s crucial to treat them with care during cleaning and handling.

Preserving Artistic Details:

If the artwork and custom designs are intricate, don't scrub your mugs vigorously with coarse materials; use soft sponge or cloth to clean your mugs gently while not damaging those beautiful artworks. Thus, you can continue to delight in the beauty and craftsmanship of your ceramics for many more years.

Create a Stylish Home with Kairaus’s Ceramic Drinkware

Caring for your ceramic mugs and cups ensures they remain both functional and visually appealing. Simple steps in handling, cleaning, and storage can help preserve their quality for years, making them a lasting part of your home decor. Whether you’re enjoying a warm beverage or showcasing an artisan mug on a shelf, the longevity of your ceramics depends on thoughtful care.

By following these care practices, you can extend the life of your mugs while keeping their charm intact. Ceramic drinkware isn’t just practical—it adds character to your space. Collections like those from Kairaus offer timeless designs that bring elegance and style into your home, blending beauty with everyday utility.