tea stains

How To Remove Tea Stains

We firmly believe that almost every staining agent can be either “removed entirely or lightened considerably by acting quickly.” Stains that are water-soluble in the first place, should react favorably to being immediately flushed with cold water.

Organic-based stains are often successfully removed by using organic or natural stain removers, i.e. lemon juice, salt, sunlight.

Removing Tea Stains From China Cups:

Your favorite China teacup may acquire a long history of tea stains that really discolors the inside. Don’t despair! Rinse the inside of the cup with water and while it is still wet, moisten a clean dishcloth with warm water and dip it in baking soda. Scrub the inside of the cup with the rag and baking soda. 

You may need to apply a little elbow grease as well, but this should effectively remove the tea stains. Be sure to wash the cup well as the baking soda will alter the next cup of brew if it is not thoroughly washed away.

Remove Tea Stains from Hard Surfaces with Salt
The salt of the earth is also one of the best stain removers on earth!
1 Sprinkle salt on the stain and rub with a soft cloth moistened with water.
2 The salt is gently abrasive as it dissolves and will not scratch metal or porcelain surfaces.
3 If the surface has a brushed finish, be sure to rub with the grain to be double sure at avoiding any accidental rubbing marks.
If any of the stain remains:
1 Mix equal amounts of white vinegar and salt and apply to the stain.
2 If it’s on fabric, rub between your fingers.
3 On hard surfaces, use a soft rag or household sponge and rub lightly.
4 Rinse well.
Removing Tea Stains on Cotton Fabric
Cotton fabrics are magnets for tea stains. Fortunately, cold water, vinegar and solutions of water, vinegar and salt are compatible with cotton.
1 To remove tea stains, dip a clean cloth or sponge in white vinegar and apply liberally to the stain.
2 Toss the garment into the wash and launder as normal.
3 Mix a solution of three cups of white vinegar and one cup of water in a glass bowl.
4 Add the tea-stained garment and allow to soak.
5 Rub the stain lightly and rinse well in cold water.
6 If the stain remains, pour salt granules in a little heap on the stain and rub between your fingers.
7 Rinse well and launder.
8 When possible, line dry your cotton fabrics in full sun instead of tossing into the dryer.
If there is any stain remaining, the heat from the dryer will cause it to set. The sun draws stains out and fresh air is a great deodorizer.
Removing Tea Stains with Dishwasher Detergent
To remove tea stains from dishes, cups, bowls, teakettles, etc., try this method.
1 Use 1 teaspoon of dishwasher detergent to a cup of very hot water.
2 Dissolve and soak the stained item for a couple of hours, even overnight.
3 Then wash as usual.
4 The stains should be gone.