How to Get Rid of Coffee Smell in a Tumbler (Easy Cleaning Tips)

Have you ever opened your tumbler only to be hit with a lingering coffee smell? If so, you’re not alone. Coffee odors can cling to mug interiors and lids, making every sip less enjoyable.

For help solving this problem, we turned to the experts themselves – the BrüMate Product Development team, where they share tried and true methods for removing and preventing coffee smells from your favorite mug and stainless steel tumbler. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to get rid of coffee smell in a tumbler using simple, effective methods. Plus, we’ll share their expert tips to prevent odors from coming back.

Why Do Coffee Smells Stick in Tumblers?

Coffee contains natural oils and compounds that easily cling to surfaces, and can be more common in stainless steel tumblers and plastic lids. Over time, these oils build up in small crevices like gaskets, lids, and seams. Even if your tumbler looks clean, those hidden areas can trap residue that causes odors to stick around.

Another factor is moisture. When a tumbler isn’t fully dried, leftover moisture creates the perfect environment for odors (and even bacteria) to develop. This is why that stale coffee smell can come back even after washing.

The longer coffee sits in your tumbler, the more likely it is to leave behind stubborn smells. That’s why regular cleaning and proper drying are key to preventing odors from setting in.

Our Tips for Removing Smells from Your Tumbler

Getting smells – especially coffee smells – out of a tumbler can feel like an act of science. Luckily, with careful cleaning (and our secret weapon), it’s easily achievable. Check out our top four methods.

Wash with Mild Detergent

When washing your tumbler, be sure you are giving it a thorough cleaning each time. Wash the lid and bottle separate from each other to get into each groove. Just be sure to avoid any harsh or abrasive chemicals, like bleach. They can damage your bottle and leave dangerous and unwanted residue.

Use Cleaning Tablets

For a more specialized approach, try utilizing cleaning tablets designed for tumblers. These tablets, like our VooBrü SuperNatural Cleaning Tablets are formulated to help break down smells and buildup that are commonly found in the walls and bottom of tumblers. VooBrü tablets will kick those tough-to-clean stains out of your favorite tumbler and have it looking and smelling like new.

Use a Bottle Brush

You know those tumblers you just can’t get your hand in all the way? Well, bottle brushes solve the problem. They are great for reaching the lower curves of your tumblers and scrubbing away lingering residue.

Dry Thoroughly

It seems like a simple tip, but it works. Once you’ve finished washing your tumbler, let it fully air dry – lid off. This helps prevent moisture from building up and trapping in odors or welcoming in mold.

Our Tips for Preventing Pesky Tumbler Smells

Now that we’ve covered how to remove coffee smells from your tumbler, let’s talk about ways to prevent them. These easy tricks will help make sure none of those pesky tumbler smells have time to settle in and irk you.

Rinse After Each Use

Once you’re done using your tumbler, rinse it out with warm water immediately. This is especially important if your tumbler contains anything other than water. As a general rule of thumb, try to avoid letting any drink sit for extended periods. This helps to prevent mold and bacterial growth.

Limit Sugary Drinks

While delicious, sugary drinks tend to leave more residue than non sugary ones. If you can’t avoid leaving them in for long, be sure to clean your tumbler thoroughly. Start by soaking your tumbler to help break down residue. Then give it a deep clean by hand, dishwasher or bottle brush.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures

While we’re all human, it’s best to try to avoid leaving your tumbler outside for extended periods of time. Extreme heat can have negative effects on the tumbler’s materials, which helps promote odor retention. You also want to be sure to avoid freezing a tumbler. Extremely low temperatures impact the bottle’s insulation and ability to seal.

Monthly Deep Clean

Once a month, take some time to check in on your tumbler. Start by disassembling all removable parts (e.g., drink stoppers, gaskets) and give them a thorough cleaning. While cleaning, check for any damage to each part. Aside from possibly decreasing its functionality bacteria and odors love to hide in cracks.

Pro tip: A monthly deep clean is fine if you primarily use your tumbler for water. However, if you’re using it for soda, coffee, or anything else you should clean each part as frequently as possible. Ideally, daily.

Store with Lid Off

Our last tip is sweet and simple. When you’re not using your tumbler, store it with the lid off. This lets air circulate inside, preventing odors from becoming trapped.

Enjoy Fresh Sips with Your Favorite BrüMate

If you’re an avid coffee drinker, sip confidently with a BrüMate. Our stainless steel tumblers are BPA-free, easy-to-clean, and help prevent odors from locking in. Check out our best sellers today and start sipping fresh.