can you put contigo travel mug in dishwasher

Are Contigo Travel Mugs Dishwasher Safe?

Kind of… let me explain.

I have plenty of experience in putting cheap mugs in the dishwasher and then not too long down the road I find them leaking.

My best guess is that some of the seams on various travel mugs start separating and leaking. You end up getting a small, weird swishing amount of water accumulating in-between the walls of the mugs.

This water never comes out for some reason. It’s pretty disturbing and gross when you think about it.

Well with Contigo mugs like the popular West Loop , Snapseal Byron , and especially the Contigo Autospout Strawcup which I give to my kids all the time I have to clean them daily, no amount of mere rinsing at the sink will work.

Although the build quality is far higher than normal run of the mill travel mugs, not a lot else is different. If you want the thing to last a long time then you should probably hand wash it every time.

Related: See this post for more on getting the coffee smell out of a travel mug .

However this is not a hard and fast rule across the board.

Let me explain.

The Lids Are Dishwasher Safe But That’s It

If you want to throw your Contigo travel mugs in the dishwasher Contigo recommends you only put the lids in the top rack of the dishwasher.

The lid is largely made of plastic and it opens up for deep cleaning in many of the newer models.

Without a fancy travel mug bottle brush this can be pretty hard. It may be best to clean your Contigo by hand but it certainly isn’t the most convenient in all situations.

How To Clean A Travel Mug

The big brush can get all the way down to the bottom of the tumbler and scrub it on all sides far easier than you can shove a sponge down there to clean. And the nooks and crannies of the lid are basically impossible to get to without the tiny brush included in the pictured set.

See product details and pricing for these brushes here on Amazon .

Assuming you have the brushes or something relatively similar then all you really need is warm soapy water. Just lightly scrub them down periodically and all will be well. You don’t want coffee oil residue from building up and this is really all it takes to keep the residue at bay.

If you want to minimize coffee odors the occasional soak in a 95/5 mixture of water and white vinegar will do the trick but you’ll have to do this periodically because once that coffee smell sets into the plastic lid it can be virtually impossible to get rid of. It’s what many people recommend buying two mugs. One dedicated to coffee and the other dedicated to everything else.

Why else do you think Contigo sells their popular Autoseal line in packs of two anyway? 🙂

If you do end up putting the lids in the dishwasher make sure to open up all the insides all the way. Mugs with fancy lids can be opened from the inside to clean all the nooks and crannies so you do yourself a disservice by not opening then for the dishwasher to do it’s job.

Cleaning The Lid By Hand

Here’s a good demo of hand washing the auto-seal lids although it’s worth noting that older models have a different lid that doesn’t open up like this one.

Let me give you a few more tips now.

According to Sip Contigo , it depends. If you are just washing the lid, it is dishwasher safe.

Contigo travel mug lids are top-rack dishwasher safe, as are any unpainted stainless steel bodies.

But that’s about it. The stainless container should be hand washed. Contigo recommends hand washing all stainless travel mugs in order to keep its nice and shiny surface.

What is the best way to clean Contigo Travel Mugs?

Over time, liquid residue and molds can accumulate around the lid. This affects the taste of your coffee and gives a stale-like odor to your drink. This is one reason why travel mugs often end up in the trash. How can you avoid this?

Regular cleaning is needed. This is highly recommended if you use your travel mug on a daily basis.

For regular cleaning, you will need warm water, mild detergent, and soft cloth.

• Fill the sink with warm water.
• Add some mild detergent and make the water soapy.
• Submerge the lid and cup. This will allow any build up and residue to loosen for easy cleaning.
• Use the soft cloth to wash the surface and the inside wall of the cup. Avoid using abrasive cleaning materials. This will damage the surface of your travel mug.
• Use the bottle brush to remove any residue at the bottom of the container. Your hands may not be able to reach the bottom of the container so better use a bottle brush to get to the ring at the bottom.
• Use the small brush to clean the lid. Brush the deeps and grooves. Small bottle brushes have wires that can be bent to reach corners and curves on the lid.
• Rinse all the pieces with water thoroughly.
• Dry with a soft cloth.
• Let it air dry on a rack to ensure that all parts are dry before safekeeping.

When do you need to deep clean a travel mug?

For some reasons, there could be an occasion when you left your travel mug with coffee overnight. Or worse, you left it in the office over the weekend.

The liquid inside would have accumulated mold. It would smell bad. If it’s an ordinary travel mug, one might decide to just throw it away. But if you have a Contigo Travel Mug, it may not be that easy to just dump it.

The solution is deep cleaning. You will need water, seltzer, a bowl and a denture tablet.

• Perform the methods used for regular cleaning.
• Due to the accumulated build up, it will not be easily removed by just a regular bottle brush. Fill the container with water, add some seltzer or club soda and attach the lid.
• Shake the container vigorously. This will easily loosen any remaining residue in the container. When you see that the inside is clear, drain the container.
• Fill a bowl with water and submerge the lid. Add a denture tablet and let it fizz. This will clear up any remaining residue sitting in the grooves of the lid.
• Using seltzer and denture tablet will remove the build and keep your travel mug smelling fresh and clean.

Important reminders from Contigo

Contigo Travel Mugs is one of the best choices for travel mugs. The manufacturer released important reminders to ensure that you enjoy the benefits of investing in a high-quality insulated travel mug.

• DO NOT overfill. Fill liquids to just below the fill line in the body as shown.
• DO NOT microwave or freeze.
• DO NOT use cleaners containing bleach, chlorine, abrasives, and/or other harsh chemicals.
• DO NOT use with pulpy beverages.
• DO NOT continue to use product if damaged.
• DO NOT carry bottles containing liquid in bags to help prevent accidental opening.

Popular types of Contigo Travel mugs

Contigo travel mugs come in different types and features. Here are some of my top picks:

• Contigo Autoseal Transit Mug – It is easy to use, sleek design. It has an autoseal to avoid any spillage. It has an ergonomic design so the lid won’t bump your nose or obstruct your line of sight.
• Contigo SnapSeal Byron Travel Mug – It is a basic mug, no fancy features and very affordable. It has a nice lead lock but no autoseal. You cannot just throw it in your bag because it could open by accident and spill over your things.

Brian Mounts

Head blogger, editor, and owner of "Top Off My Coffee", a website that has been educating readers about coffee brewing techniques and equipment since 2012.

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• Glassware & Drinkware

Contigo Autoseal West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug Review

A seriously great mug for commuters

Contigo West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug with Autoseal Lid

The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas

Effective autolock and anti-spill lid

Can be locked and unlocked with one hand

Keeps drinks hot/cold for hours

A little wide for smaller hands

Plastic lid seems prone to breakage

Bottle isn’t dishwasher-safe (the lid is, though)

If you’re an urban commuter, you’ll love the anti-spill, single-hand operation of Contigo’s West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug with Autoseal Lid. 

Editor’s Note (September 2023): We originally published our review of this Contigo Stainless Steel Travel Mug in 2019. While we’ve tested numerous travel mugs since, we routinely revisit previous picks to make sure they’re still up to our standards. With the Contigo's excellent performance and affordable price, it remains one of our favorite travel mugs .

• Competition
• Final Verdict

We purchased the Contigo West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug with Autoseal Lid so our reviewer could put it to the test in her kitchen. Keep reading for our full product review.

If you like to sip coffee or tea on your way to work—and you’re all too familiar with the horror of spilling a hot drink all over your desk or your laptop—you’ve probably looked into  travel mugs . Specialty travel mugs, such as the Contigo West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug, have lids to prevent drips and spills. In addition, they're typically designed to keep liquids hot for much longer than a standard mug. To see if Contigo's West Loop mug delivered on its promise of being leak-free and temperature-maintaining, we put it to the test for a few weeks. Read on for everything we discovered. 

Design: Pretty sophisticated, actually 

While the outward appearance of the Contigo West Loop is pretty standard for a travel mug, there are a handful of welcome features hidden within. The mug is vacuum insulated, meaning that it’s comprised of two layers of stainless steel, and the space between the layers has been voided of air, leaving an empty channel that doesn’t conduct heat well. This technology allows the mug to keep drinks hot (or cold) for so long and explains why the mug doesn’t burn your hand when filled with hot liquids. Contigo calls this their Thermalock system and claims the mug can keep drinks hot for up to seven hours.

In our testing, the Contigo performed even better than promised. When filled with hot coffee, the mug maintained high heat for roughly three hours. Though the coffee slightly cooled after that, it was still warm enough to drink for another three to four hours. When filled with ice water, the Contigo kept it cool enough to maintain the ice cubes for 12 hours. Even 20 hours later, when we checked back in, the water was still very cold. 

The Contigo performed even better than promised.

The mug’s most sophisticated features are hidden in the lid, though. Rather than having a flip-top, there’s a small hole with Autoseal technology. This means the hole stays closed unless the user presses and holds the lid’s button. This technology worked extremely well in our testing. The lid has a second lock that can be depressed to add even more assurance against spills. This lock prevents the spout button from accidentally being engaged. With this lock engaged, we filled the mug with coffee and carried it around in a bag all day without any leakage.  

In terms of downsides, there are only a few minor issues. Firstly, the 20-ounce size is a bit wide for smaller hands to hold comfortably. Secondly, the lid’s complex construction is made of plastic pieces and springs, which has us wondering how long it’ll be able to withstand heavy use—especially if tossed in a backpack or backseat. Finally, we found that the sipping spout would occasionally splash a few droplets of our drink when unlocked—but this almost always happened if it had been bumped around beforehand. 

Material: Stainless steel and BPA-free plastics

The Contigo West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug is designed with double-wall stainless steel and a BPA-free plastic Autoseal lid. A few reviewers reported issues with the exterior paint chipping or flaking, but we chose the stainless steel version, so we didn't test that particular issue. 

Cleaning: A bit complicated for a mug

Unless you’ve chosen the unpainted stainless steel version of the mug, it’s not dishwasher safe. However, the lid can be washed in the dishwasher, provided you put it on the top rack. 

If you’re washing the Contigo by hand, be prepared for a bit of inconvenience, as it comes with specific washing instructions. To wash the lid in the sink, you must submerge it thoroughly in hot, soapy water for around 10 minutes before washing and rinsing it by hand. Contigo suggests that you give the mug a thorough washing immediately after each use. However, if purchasers are anything like us, that won’t always happen; you can simply run the mug underwater in an office sink during the weekdays. We found that a thorough daily rinse was enough to remove any stains or coffee grounds, but it’s worth noting that Contigo does not recommend this as it could lead to build-up or mildew. 

If you’re washing the Contigo by hand, be prepared for a bit of inconvenience.

The locking mechanism built into the lid is somewhat complex, but fortunately, Contigo designed the parts for easy cleaning. There’s a small tab on the underside of the lid that pulls up, providing easier access to the parts inside the lid.  

Price: Very affordable

The Contigo travel mug is available in 16, 20, and 24-ounce sizes. Each will run you between $20.99 and $30.99, depending on the size and color. Making a small investment in one of these mugs and  making coffee at home  is a financially savvy move for those trying to avoid the cost of daily Starbucks and Dunkin' Donuts runs. 

Contigo West Loop 2.0 Stainless Steel Travel Mug vs. Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug

The  Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug  is pretty comparable to the Contigo. It retains heat for just as long as the Contigo and is cooler to the touch when filled with a hot beverage. Though it doesn't boast Contigo’s Autoseal technology, the Zojirushi mug has a flip-top and is equally leak-proof. It’s also available in various colors, from smoky blue and lavendar pink to champagne gold and stainless steel. It only comes in 12- and 16-ounce options, so if you’re looking for a larger capacity, you may want to go with the Contigo. 

An all-around winner. The Contigo West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug with Autoseal Lid is a great option for coffee lovers—especially those who drink  20 ounces (or more) each morning. With a leak-proof design, superior insulation, and one-hand operation, it’s well worth it for those on the go.

• Product Name West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug with Autoseal Lid
• Product Brand Contigo
• MPN 70121-AMZ
• Price $20.99
• Weight 0.79 lbs.
• Product Dimensions 3.0 x 9.0 in.
• Color Earl gray, dark plum, passion fruit, matte black, stainless steel, blue corn, chard, beige/latte, radiant orchid, Biscay Bay, bright lavender, violet
• Material Stainless steel and BPA-free plastic
• Warranty Limited lifetime guarantee (excludes regular wear and tear)

Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia. Vacuum flask . Encyclopedia Britannica .

Food and Drug Administration. Bisphenol A (BPA): Use in food contact application .

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Tested: The Best Travel Mugs For Hot & Cold Drinks On The Go

By: Ethan Brehm Published: Feb 15, 2024

By: Ethan Brehm and Cameron Cardwell Published: Feb 15, 2024

Contributors

There are a lot of travel mugs and commuter cups that claim to be “thermal,” but most of them are just cheap imitators that can’t keep a cup of coffee at the ideal temperature that the true drinker demands. Don’t get ripped off by any second-rate piece of plastic with a styrofoam insulator that claims it will keep your hot beverages hot and your cold beverages cool for long drives and long days at the office. Go with one of our picks from our guide to the best travel mugs, which we’ve tested and reviewed so you don’t have to.

Best Travel Mugs Breakdown

Best Budget Travel Mug

RTIC Travel Mug

Best Outdoor Mug

Yeti Rambler Mug

Best Hot Coffee Mug

KeepCup Travel Mug

Best Mug for Commuting

MiiR Flip Traveler

Best Mug Overall

Hydro Flask Coffee with Flex Sip Lid

Best Mug for the Car

Contigo Travel Mug

Best Coffee Mug for Instant Sipping

JoeVeo Temperfect Javabliss 16 Travel Mug

Best Large Mug

Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler

Article Overview

How We Tested

What makes a good travel mug, travel mug comparison chart, why use a travel mug, single-wall vs. double-wall vs. triple-wall, honorable mentions, the best insulated water bottles.

Let’s be honest: There are a LOT of travel mug options out there, with new ones making their way into the space each year. With that, we had to distill that list down to a select few. To do so, we used our years’ worth of expertise and experience using these vessels to help us out. We also looked at who were the major players in the game, the feisty newcomers, and the trendy outliers. From there, we came up with a short list, looking at materials, aesthetics, claimed performance (prior to testing), features, and lid function, and sourced samples for testing.

Testing took several days and consisted of actually using these mugs for both hot and cold beverages, depending on their intended purposes. For starters, we filled up each mug halfway with ice and halfway with water. Then we checked the temperatures initially and came back to them 15 hours later to see how much the temperature rose (or dropped in one instance). We only did this for the mugs that were intended for all-day drinking and cold temperature retention. In other words, the few mugs that were specifically for hot water only got tested for hot water. However, we performed the hot water test for all 8 mugs. In a similar way to the cold water test, we checked the temperature at the start and revisited each mug after 6 hours (mugs can’t hold hot water for as long as cold). Another thing we did after filling each mug was turn it upside down and shake it somewhat vigorously to see how much water, if any, leaked out. While almost all of these claim to be spill-proof when sealed properly, not all of them are leak -proof. So we’ve presented our findings as a distinction between the two terms. All of our results and findings are detailed down below.

Travel mugs are generally best for coffee, tea, or any other hot (or cold) beverage you need on the go, making them ideal for commuting, traveling, and camping. It’s a better choice than disposable options from an environmental standpoint, but also from a health standpoint because you decide what’s going in there.

Size: 12oz to 24oz is the average range for most travel mugs (with 8oz – 12oz options available for smaller beverages like cappuccinos) and should be sufficient unless you can’t make frequent drink trips or consume entire pots of coffee. For those of you who do need more volume, there are options that get into the 32oz or 40oz territory.

Lid: Lids can vary slightly (and not so slightly) from mug to mug; they can twist open, flip open, snap shut, and even include a straw sometimes. Commuters might want something with a sturdy no-nonsense lid, and those who WFH may go for something with a flip top or a straw. Decide which lid works best with your lifestyle and feels best, and go for that one.

Material: Firstly, make sure whatever you buy is BPA-free, then decide if you want a tempered glass, plastic, or stainless steel mug . Stainless steel retains temperatures better, but glass is more sustainable and can be put in the dishwasher. Plastic is probably the worst of these choices, but there are some solid options out there.

Finish: While you might want a powder-coated finish to keep standard water bottles from slipping out of your hands, mugs often come with handles instead. However, many of the picks below will have some sort of extra grip, whether or not a handle is included.

Temperature Retention: Stainless steel options will often be vacuum-insulated (an added layer that keeps heat from getting in or out) and keep your drinks either hot or cold for a while. Since heat rises, going for mugs with smaller lids/lid openings will help with heat retention.

Maintenance: Most stainless steel mugs need to be washed by hand, as opposed to putting them in the dishwasher (which you can do with most glass and ceramic mugs).

Leak-Proof/Spill-Proof: As we mentioned up above, most travel mugs advertise themselves as spill-proof, but what does that really mean? Most of them won’t deluge water if toppled over, however, they might still leak if upside down or sideways for any amount of time. It’s important to distinguish the difference, especially if you’re planning on carrying these in your bag.

• Really good temp retention
• Sleek design
• Handle not super ergonomic
• Lid screws on so sipper opening is too close to handle

Best Budget Travel Mug: RTIC is a legendary name in drinkware, and in less than a decade. Known for offering unrivaled outdoor-ready gear at affordable price points, this 20-ounce option is not only incredibly cheap but looks like a travel mug that’s twice the price, especially considering the size (there’s also a 16oz size available). Compared a lot to YETI, RTIC still gets the job done with double-wall stainless steel insulation for temperature retention, a no-sweat exterior to eliminate condensation, and a splash-proof flip-top lid with an air-tight seal. Also, it’s dishwasher-safe!

If you’re looking for something simple for transporting your drink to and from work or school, or simply want a desktop vessel that can keep your coffee warm for a while, the RTIC Travel Mug will do the trick, and with a price tag much lower than the competition. Aesthetic-wise, it’s simple and sleek enough that nothing about it looks cheap, and it feels durable in your hand. Despite the plastic lid, which helps you see how much of your beverage you have left, the mug had some of the best temperature retention, only gaining 3.6ºF in 15 hours.

My biggest gripe is the lid itself. Aside from being difficult to open upon first use (also there’s a lip on one side that almost implies it’s a seal-on rather than twist-on), the flip-top always lands too close to the handle when twisted all the way. I suppose if you really wanted to force it, you could make it so the sipper was in a better position, but no one should have to use a vice-grip in order to drink from a lid properly. Also, the handle design is pretty uncomfortable with its thin, sharper edges. Surprisingly enough, the RTIC Travel Mug was actually one of the least prone to leaking on this list. Even without clamping the lid all the way on, not a single drop came out of it when shaken upside down. This can be attributed to the actual effectiveness of the flip-top plug, which is pretty deep, despite being fairly easy to snap on and off.

Verdict: The lid design doesn’t make sense with its twist-on function –– not to mention, it restricts which hand you can grab it with –– but RTIC still makes the best budget travel mug around and has some incredible leak resistance and temperature retention.

Size: 20oz Material: 18/8 stainless steel Cap: Flip-Top Finish: N/A Temperature Gain (15hrs): 3.6ºF Temperature Loss (6hrs): 54.2ºF Dishwasher Safe?: Yes Leak-Proof?: Yes

• Secure sipper closure
• Nice-sized sipper opening
• Surprisingly leak-proof
• Won’t fit in many cupholders
• Difficult to open without spilling

Best Outdoor Mug: Since 2006, YETI has been making products (starting with coolers) that stand up to tough conditions and don’t leave you hanging like the mass-produced retail options. Since then, the brand has garnered a lot of popularity among outdoor enthusiasts and people who just appreciate good build quality. And the label’s Rambler Mug is a shining example of this quality, made with double-wall vacuum insulation that’ll keep drinks (and food) as hot and cold as you’d like. This is a great choice for the campsite, and can even be thrown in the dishwasher, unlike most other stainless steel mugs. Plus, it’s stackable, which makes it easier for packing if you have more than one. We tested the 14oz mug, but there are 10oz and 24oz versions too.

We all know YETI’s prowess when it comes to vacuum-sealed water bottles, but the brand is also superb when it comes to other drinking vessels. The smaller size of this 14-ounce Rambler makes it better for sipping hot beverages, as does its sipping lid. The clear top allows you to see how much you have left inside, or you can remove the lid altogether to let your drink cool down a bit faster. After all, the stainless steel construction will keep this hot for much longer than you probably intend it to. Despite the diminutive stature, the Rambler is deceptively capacitious. Aside from the satisfying action of operating the sliding cover over the sipper, the slider itself feels firm when both opened and closed. Other versions of this on other mugs seem flimsy and more prone to leaking. However, after being jostled around a bit, I couldn’t find much leaking coming from the lid or its sipper cover –– only minimal moisture collecting around parts of the edges.

It’s also important to note that the nature of the sealed cap makes it pretty difficult to open up. Sure, this helps prevent leaking but the fact that you’ll have to tilt this at an angle and use force makes it virtually impossible to open when liquid is already inside. Say you just want to top off your coffee or tea –– forcing the lid open when the mug is half full will undoubtedly lead to spillage. The handle feels good in hand and will fit about three fingers when held. Also, the non-twist lid lets you position the sipper hole where you want in relation to the handle for more ergonomic comfort.

Verdict: High on durability, yet relatively lightweight, the YETI Rambler is a fantastic option for drinking coffee and tea on camping trips. Despite being difficult to open with liquid inside, the lid has a sipper hole that isn’t too small, which is great for not burning your tongue on hotter beverages, while the slide opener prevents leaks pretty well.

Size: 14oz Material: 18/8 stainless steel Cap: Open mouth with slide sipper Finish: N/A Temperature Gain (15hrs): N/A Temperature Loss (6hrs): 78.1ºF Dishwasher Safe?: Yes Leak-Proof?: No

• Unique design
• Can fit under coffee machines
• Glass is really tough
• Technically breakable
• Sipper plug comes off too easily

Best Hot Coffee Mug: After two Melbourne baristas saw how much waste was involved with coffee making and drinking, they decided to make the KeepCup, a reusable mug, that hit the land down under in 2009. Now the KeepCup is beloved worldwide, thanks to the mug’s coffee-friendly design made with tempered glass, a cork band, and a splashproof lid. It even fits under most espresso and coffee machines, so you can get your favorite local coffee to go while preserving its flavor and temperature. It comes in four different sizes: 6oz, 8oz, 12oz, and 16oz, although we only reviewed the 12oz version.

The first thing you’ll notice with the KeepCup is its unique design. While the cork band is mostly for aesthetic purposes, it can also help provide an extra bumper if this thing happens to fall or bang against another item or surface. On the other hand, it doesn’t help much with the grip, yet adds an extra layer of thickness that makes it more difficult to hold in your hand. I wouldn’t complain if KeepCup made a version of its flagship model with a handle. Although it’s made of glass, the mug is one of the most durable-feeling glass mugs we’ve used; I can’t imagine it breaking easily. With a lower hot liquid temperature retention time, the glass wall will also be favorable for those who hate steel mugs that make it difficult to drink hot coffee quickly.

For sipping, the lid opening is triangular shaped and is large enough that sipping isn’t unproductive; this isn’t a Starbucks lid. In the center of the lid is a piece that swivels so that you can cover the opening when you’re not drinking or be turned when you want to leave it open. Even though the plug doesn’t quite “snap” into place like I expected, it also didn’t allow leakage when I turned it upside down and shook it. Likewise, the entire lid itself feels like it’s not incredibly secure. I kept thinking it wasn’t on all the way. However, even when I tossed it onto the ground and let it tumble a bit, only a few drops presented themselves around the sipping hole (which, technically, means it’s not entirely leak-proof, but this is still impressive). I was taken aback when the sipper hole cover piece came off the lid, exposing a giant hole in the center of the lid. Then I figured this would make it easier for cleaning . I just wish it didn’t come off so unintentionally; it was much too easy to over-twist this swivel piece.

Verdict: Overall, it’s a lot of fun to use the KeepCup and it will certainly add a stylish element to your desktop space. We don’t recommend putting this in your backpack with liquid inside but it won’t spill if you’re traveling with it in a car. Glass is an attractive option for quicker coffee drinkers who don’t want to wait for the cool-down times of steel mugs. Even though the lid on this model feels a bit flimsy and cheap compared to other options, the company has the right idea.

Size: 12oz Material: Tempered glass and cork Cap: Flip-top Finish: N/A Temperature Gain (15hrs): N/A Temperature Loss (6hrs): 103.3ºF Dishwasher Safe?: No Leak-Proof?: No

• Really sleek design
• Pretty leak-proof
• Good for tossing into backpack or bag
• Sipping is a challenge; flip-top gets in the way

Best Mug for Commuting: The independently owned label MiiR is a certified B Corporation with a Climate Neutral certification, and a mission to craft products that benefit not just the user, but the environment. MiiR’s Flip Traveler is a sleek, simple, and effective travel mug that’s perfect for your commute in that it is leak-proof for carrying in a bag , fits easily into your cupholder, and sports an easy one-handed flip top. It’s made with vacuum-insulated stainless steel to keep your drinks at the perfect temp, and even features an insulated spill-proof lid. Additionally, it’s coated in the label’s Hardshell Powder Coat, making it more durable. We took a look at the 16oz model (12oz and 20oz versions are also available).

As we’ve seen with its other models, such as its Insulated Water Bottle, MiiR really knows how to bring subtle design changes to traditional vessels without losing their recognizability as that object. Case in point is this minimal travel mug, which sports a sleek body and an angular design up top. Easy to open for filling compared to other mugs and bottles, the Flip Traveler sports a lid with a flip-top sipper design that snaps into place to prevent leaking. This proved to be almost true upon shaking the bottle upside down, although some drops did come out. Likewise, there’s no equivocality in whether the top is opened or closed thanks to the effort it takes to snap it shut. This is great if you’re carrying the mug inside your backpack or gym bag (although there are certainly better gym options out there). In the way of our testing, the MiiR had the best heat retention numbers and second-best coldness retention numbers.

In terms of a practical drinking vessel, the Flip Traveler may prove to be more impractical than most. The flip-top doesn’t open far enough and bumps into your nose when drinking, preventing you from doing so comfortably. Likewise, if you’re looking for a single-hand mug, the MiiR will be troublesome due to how difficult it is to open its flip-top. It’s almost impossible to do this without two hands, and closing it requires a bit of extra force. This isn’t an issue if you’re leaving it open for a car ride . However, if you forget to close it or merely think it’s closed all the way, you could have a messy situation. Despite the claim that the outer wall was powder-coated, it was highly slippery in my hand.

Verdict: Stylish and fairly leak-proof, the MiiR will give you some issues when it comes to actually sipping your beverage with a flip-top that simply gets in the way and can’t be opened or closed single-handedly. Nevertheless, the Flip Traveler is a solid commuter option for those who don’t want a giant bottle taking up space and adding weight to their work bag. Plus it has the best heat retention and second-best cold retention of the vessels we tested.

Size: 16oz Material: 18/8 Stainless Steel Cap: Flip-top Finish: Powder-coated Temperature Gain (15hrs): 2.9ºF Temperature Loss (6hrs): 42.1ºF Dishwasher Safe?: Lid only (top rack) Leak-Proof?: No

• Multiple lid options
• Great construction
• Feels good in hand
• Silicone handle is useful
• Lifetime warranty
• Can be tricky to use while driving

Best Mug Overall: If you don’t already have a Hydro Flask (or somehow have never seen one), then you’re missing out on the Oregon-based label’s outdoor-friendly and durable products. Since they’ve taken the world by storm, Hydro Flasks began receiving new iterations, like this insulated mug here that’s part of the company’s coffee-focused lineup , which is backed by a lifetime warranty. Holding 16oz of liquid (12oz and 20oz options available too), it gives you 12 hours of hot drinks and 24 hours of cold drinks, with a leakproof Flex Sip lid that provides a simple way to drink without spilling.

In terms of hitting all the marks well, this Hydro Flask Coffee is a winner. It’s easy to carry with a comfortable silicone strap attached to the lid and it minimizes spillage when turned upside down. The cap is easy to take on and off, and you can tighten it pretty well if you try. While the powder-coating could be more aggressive like some of the brand’s other options, it has a nice in-hand feel and has solid temperature retention without being too heavy. Perhaps the best part about Hydro Flask aside from its tried-and-true quality is its lid options. Aside from this sip lid, there’s the chug cap, sport cap, and straw cap. However, if you’re really looking for a travel mug, especially for drinks like coffee, the sip lid is the way to go. It might not be as pleasant to physically sip from as others on this list in terms of the flow of the liquid, but it’s better for hot beverages and seems to slow down liquid on its way to your mouth.

The biggest downside of the Hydro Flask Coffee is how difficult it is to open while driving. The twisting operation of the sip lid requires two hands and has a good deal of resistance even then. However, this can be remedied if you simply leave the cap open on your car ride. Plus, if you forget to close it back up, the depth of the lid will minimize most incidental spillage. On the other hand, when closed properly, this bottle proved to be leak-proof when shaken upside down. Some users have noted that if the silicone strap breaks, you have to replace the entire lid. But the sturdiness of the strap makes it hard to imagine it getting damaged in the first place.

Verdict: Benefitting from top-to-bottom construction excellence, the Hydro Flask Coffee has decent temperature retention, a stylish aesthetic, and multiple lid options. It’s difficult to open and close single-handedly, but the advantages of this vessel far outweigh its drawbacks.

Size: 16oz Material: 18/8 Stainless Steel Cap: Twist-top sipper Finish: Powder-coated Temperature Gain (15hrs): 6.7ºF Temperature Loss (6hrs): 49.9ºF Dishwasher Safe?: Yes Leak-Proof?: Yes

• Fits in cupholder despite holding a lot
• Autoseal button closes sipping hole when not in use
• Leak proof when Autoseal is locked
• Not leak proof when Autosal is unlocked
• Below average temp retention, but still not terrible

Best Mug for the Car: It’s ideal for the commuter thanks to the simple, one-handed flip design. The brand’s patented Autoseal technology allows the sipper to open up when you need it with the push of a button, but even more, it closes automatically so you can’t accidentally forget. It is guaranteed to be completely leakproof whether you are shaking it, rocking it, or rattling it. Stands up to the worst you can throw at it for those times when you just need a little caffeine after you roll your car. Works for both righties and lefties with equal ease. Large enough for even the hardiest coffee fiend and simple to use at 24 oz (16oz and 20oz options available too). If you need style and substance without dropping a lot of dough, the Contigo has you covered. Comes with a lifetime warranty against defects and provides up to 5 hours of hot drinks and 12 hours of cold drinks.

Car mugs are hit or miss, and many of them are great in one regard but terrible in another. However, the Contigo Travel Mug doesn’t have a lot of flaws, at least not where driving and (non-alcoholic) drinking is concerned. The Autoseal is a great feature that allows this mug to be spill-proof while also making it fun to use. You literally just press the Autoseal button firmly and sip from a hole on the other side. Also, the flow of the liquid was pleasantly paced. This is one attribute that can’t get controlled a whole lot with simple openings in a lid. However, the canal shape required of this particular contraption allows it to have a unique drinking experience.

While it’s spill-proof, it’s not technically leak-proof when the Autoseal is unlocked. Shaken upside down, quite a few drops still came out, but this shouldn’t be much of an issue if the bottle just topples over on the table. On the other hand, if you use the Autoseal lock, this mug is about as leak-proof as they come, just like the brand claims. I do wish, however, that the Autoseal lock were easier to press. It often got stuck when wet and I had to use two fingers to push. While the 8.3ºF temperature gain over 15 hours isn’t bad, it’s still the worst of the ones tested. I was honestly surprised it did so badly considering the density of the lid. But upon further inspection, it makes sense because the seal itself isn’t terribly wide.

Verdict: Not many 24-ounce travel mugs can fit inside cupholders as well as the Contigo Travel Mug. Add to that the ability to seal the drinking spout automatically when not in use and you have yourself the ultimate car ride sipper. Priced fairly, this mug really doesn’t have a lot of flaws outside of below-average temperature retention. However, it will still serve most people’s needs just fine.

Size: 24oz Material: 18/8 Stainless Steel Cap: Push-button flip-top Finish: Metallic Temperature Gain (15hrs): 8.3ºF Temperature Loss (6hrs): 52.7ºF Dishwasher Safe?: Lid only (top rack) Leak-Proof?: No

• Reduces hot temp to drinkable temp in 3min
• Nice aesthetic
• Silicone grip feels good in hand
• Lid’s lip is too large

Best Coffee Mug for Instant Sipping: A big issue with travel mugs when it comes to coffee or other hot drinks is the inability to drink right away. In a standard coffee mug, the liquid cools down instantly and most people drink it fast enough that it can retain a level of warmness the entire time. But if you need coffee on the go, the temperature retention of most steel vessels prevents you from sipping for hours unless you pour it into a separate mug for drinking. However, this Temperfect from JoeVeo uses an innovative system that brings the temperature down to a drinkable level in just 3 minutes AND keeps it at that drinkable level for hours.

Obviously, when a product makes a claim such as the JoeVeo, it’s natural to try and see if it can follow through. As such, to test this specific mug, we checked the temperature right as the coffee was poured and then again 3 minutes later (with the lid on). In that short amount of time, the coffee went from 162ºF to 146ºF –– pretty impressive. I wanted to see how much it would drop after 5 more minutes, this time with the lid open. Lo and behold, the temperature stayed relatively the same, this time hovering around 144.5ºF. If you’re someone who likes to drink coffee quickly, this might still be too hot, compounded even more by the fact that it’s being held at that temperature indefinitely, more or less. On the other hand, coffee sippers will love how drinkable their beverage is in such a short amount of time.

As far as the drinking experience, the anti-slosh sipper shutter isn’t terribly reliable when it comes to leakage. It’s essentially the same effect as if you were to use your finger to cover the opening –– although the brand acknowledges this in the product description online. Likewise, the lip of the lid is just slightly too deep for sipping comfortably. From an aesthetic standpoint, the JoeVeo has an attractive design language, with a silicone sleeve that provides a firm grip in your hand. I also like the silicone base, which eliminates noisy set-downs on your desk. However, as someone with a caffeine addiction, 16oz is a bit small for me (I drink around 64oz of coffee per day ) so I would have loved it if there were a larger size option.

Verdict: Poor lid execution aside, the JoeVeo sports an attractive design and stays put in your hand with a silicone grip. It will definitely leak and is difficult to sip from but the mug follows through on its promise to deliver drinkable hot coffee in just three minutes.

Size: 16oz Material: Stainless Steel Cap: Anti-slosh sipper shutter Finish: Brushed and electropolished with silicone sleeve Temperature Gain (15hrs): N/A Temperature Loss (6hrs): 59.9ºF Dishwasher Safe?: Lid only Leak-Proof?: No

• Holds 40oz inside your cupholder
• Straw or sipping options
• Comfortable handle
• Negative temperature retention
• Dual drinking options aren’t entirely practical
• Difficult to switch drinking modes
• Not spill-proof

Best Large Mug: This is probably the cup your dad used (and still uses) whenever you went camping as a kid. However, we’ve all seen how trendy Stanley Tumblers have become with the younger crowd in today’s viral society. But don’t let the trends fool you; Stanley is a heritage brand through and through, around since 1913, when the founder brought vacuum insulation and steel together to create a rugged cup that can stay hot. You can also trust that the historical quality of this brand translates to its insulated travel mug. It’s made with recycled materials, and the label’s FlowState lid, which offers a full cover top, a drink opening, and an opening for the included straw so it doesn’t spill while using it. Additionally, it’s dishwasher safe and comes with a lifetime warranty. For those who drink a lot during the day and want minimal refills, this 40-ounce option is a great pick, although it’s available in several sizes from 14oz to 30oz.

It’s easy to deride a product that’s become a fad but Stanley’s Tumbler makes it so difficult. For starters, the sheer design that intuitively allows for 40oz of liquid to be held in your car’s cupholder is brilliant. The tapered bottom half has made this mug desirable in and of itself. I also liked how comfortable the handle felt in my hand. Wisely, it’s a different, softer material than the steel mug, which is a crucial element with a thermos this size because it can get quite heavy. As for the cold temperature retention, this mug actually lost degrees over 15 hours and was the only one that still had ice left inside.

As nice as it is to have options between a sipper and a straw, the actual application of this feature is a bit gimmicky. The triple-function lid does not open and close very easily, which can be an issue when you have a full mug of coffee on a bumpy car ride. It almost always requires two hands to operate. Likewise, if you’re out for the day and have decided to switch from the straw to the sipper, you’ll have to find a place for the straw in the meantime. A remedy for this requires you to make the executive decision of sipper-versus-straw before you leave the house. Likewise, the sipper opening is a bit too close to the handle, just like the RTIC above. However, it doesn’t disable you from sipping outright, and at least you’re able to drink this while holding it with your right hand (the cupholder side). Another important thing to note is that the Stanley is in no way spill-proof, let alone leak-proof, and was the only one in this guide where lots of spillage occurred when it was tilted upside down. It was pouring out water even lying on its side. The lid loosens far too easily, which can be a major issue for a lot of people.

Verdict: Stanley’s Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler may be the most trendy on this list but it definitely delivers in a lot of ways. The unique design lets you easily travel with 40oz of your beverage of choice and the phenomenal cold temperature retention is a big plus. Not to mention, the handle is comfortable to hold despite the heavier weight of the tumbler. We didn’t love the lid necessarily, which isn’t spill-proof, but this might not be an issue if you love everything else this mug can do.

Size: 40z Material: Recycled Stainless Steel Cap: Rotating lid with straw and sipper Finish: N/A Temperature Gain (15hrs): -2.9ºF Temperature Loss (6hrs): 45.3ºF Dishwasher Safe?: Yes Leak-Proof?: No

With the myriad options of insulated water bottles these days, one might wonder why a travel mug is a preferable option. Well, for one, mugs are better for hot liquids for their ability to sip rather than chug. Smaller holes on top give you the ability to nurse your coffee or tea rather than meet a daily goal, like you would with water. Likewise, mugs are usually much smaller, which is also better for beverages you don’t want a lot of. On the other hand, you wouldn’t be blamed if you wanted to bring along an insulated water bottle AND a travel mug –– in fact, a lot of people do it.

While a vast majority of stainless steel bottles and mugs are double-wall insulated, you’ll come across single- or triple-wall options every so often. If you’re wondering what double-wall means, it essentially refers to the two layers of stainless steel that have had the air between them vacuumed out in order to limit heat transfer. On the contrary, triple-wall insulation doesn’t mean a third wall of steel but actually a layer of copper between the two steel walls, which helps further insulation. Although the jury is still out on if this is actually necessary or just a marketing ploy. As for single-wall insulation mugs, these may be appealing to those who don’t care as much about temperature retention and want something a bit lighter in weight.

One popular budget option is Zojirushi’s Stainless Steel Mug , a cupholder-friendly flip-top thermos with interesting tech that includes partial vacuum construction which allows for some air between the two walls. The Contigo is similarly priced and has some better features, but the Zojirushi is a popular choice as well.

While the Carter Wide Mug from Fellow has a great design and construction, we preferred the similar YETI Mug above. It’s a popular choice for its aesthetic and performance but lacks a handle and can’t fit in most cupholders.

BruMate’s NAV 22oz is a great choice with its extra capacity thanks to the contoured shape. The company always comes to the party with innovation and originality. However, their products always seem to get discontinued quickly, which prevented its inclusion here.

Despite its design-forward silhouette, the Kinto Travel Tumbler narrowly missed the cut because it lacked a lot of desirable “travel” features, such as a handle and an actual sipping lid, meaning you have to remove the entire lid to sip from it — not ideal. 

Another option that’s more form than function is the Hitch Bottle & Cup Kit , which sports a cool industrial minimalism but feels impractical for actual traveling.

While we love travel mugs for our coffee and tea on the go, we need much more capacity for our hydration needs. Take a look at our best water bottles guide for H20-specific solutions.

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Are Travel Mugs Dishwasher Safe?

So you want to take your morning coffee to go. You don’t have time to drink it at home before heading out to work. Or, you want a nice cup of coffee at work without spending a lot of money on buying coffee from a coffee shop like Starbucks. A travel mug is the answer.

But you don’t want a lot of hassle from that travel mug. It needs to keep your coffee warm and should be easy to clean.

Therefore, You might wonder: are travel mugs dishwasher safe? The answer is:  No. Travel mugs are generally not dishwasher safe because of the vacuum seal that gives your travel mug its insulating properties. The high heat in a dishwasher can damage these vacuum seals. A damaged vacuum seal causes the travel mug to lose its insulating properties, and it might cause the travel mug to leak.

That’s a bummer. Now you have to clean it by hand every night—something you don’t want to be spending time on in a busy life.

Luckily there is one brand of coffee travel mugs that are dishwasher safe. But more on that later. 

How do you know if a travel mug is dishwasher safe?

Usually, travel mugs and items have symbols on the bottom that tell you about their properties. The glass and fork symbol tells you that an item is food safe. That doesn’t make it dishwasher safe, though. This is important because many people confuse ‘food safe’ for ‘dishwasher safe.’

The icon you are looking for is the dishwasher-safe icon that looks like a set of dishes (usually a set of plates or a plate and a glass) with some straight lines above it. This icon tells you the item is safe for the dishwasher. But only on the top rack! 

Unfortunately, there is no universal symbol for fully dishwasher safe items. Some manufacturers design their own, but the only way to know for sure is to refer to the package or the user manual if the item comes with one.

So, to find out whether your travel mug is dishwasher safe, look at the bottom first. In most cases, you won’t find any information there. You could refer to the manual or package it came in if you still have that, but let me tell you:

99% of travel mugs are not dishwasher safe. Most modern travel mugs have dishwasher safe lids, but the vacuum-sealed body is not dishwasher safe.

Fortunately, there is a manufacturer that makes dishwasher safe insulated mugs. We will dive into that at the end of this article. First, let’s find out WHY many travel mugs are not safe for the dishwasher.

Why are many travel mug NOT dishwasher safe?

As we discussed, most travel mugs are not dishwasher safe because of the vacuum seal. The vacuum seal is what allows the travel mug to keep your coffee hot for hours.

To keep the liquid in a travel mug hot (or cold, it doesn’t matter), we have to prevent the heat from escaping. Heat escapes through conductivity. When you pour coffee in a regular mug, the hot coffee transfers its warmth onto the wall of the mug and up into the air. If you put a lid on it, the heat can’t escape up. But it still transfers to the wall of the mug and from the mug to the air outside the mug.

How a travel mug keeps your coffee hot

A travel mug tries to keep heat in by having two containers, one smaller than the other, separated by a thin layer of empty space. The air is sucked out of that empty space, and a seal prevents air from getting back in. Now the inner container has no air to transfer its heat onto. A vacuum is terrible at conducting heat. So, the heat stays inside the inner container, keeping your coffee warm. 

The weak point in a vacuum-sealed, double-walled, travel mug is the seal that keeps the vacuum intact. If this seal gets damaged, air can get into the space between the two containers, and the power of vacuum insulation is lost. 

Also, when the seal is damaged, water from the dishwasher can get between the double walls. And you don’t want any water sitting there.

Why a dishwasher will destroy the vaccuum seal

So, keeping the seal on your double-walled travel mug in good condition is vital. And putting it in the dishwasher is the best way to destroy a vacuum seal, short of pounding the travel mug with a hammer. A dishwasher can produce a lot of heat and movement. Hot water is sprayed on the dishes from all sides is what cleans them. And it will clean your travel mug too. But what is really bad for the vacuum seal is the high heat the dishwasher produces to evaporate excess water at the end of the washing program. This will destroy the vacuum seal. Not the first time you put it in, but slowly over time.

There is probably no need to stress this anymore, but: don’t put your vacuum-sealed travel mug in the dishwasher!

Bonus : an old, but fun video explains how a thermos (i.e., a big travel mug  😊 ) works.

What are the best dishwasher safe travel mugs?

Well, I told you that 99% of travel mugs are not dishwasher safe. So finding any dishwasher safe travel mugs would be a challenge itself. Some manufacturers claim their travel mugs are dishwasher safe.  

Sometimes these are just claims. Usually, reviews on Amazon or after some Googling will tell you that these claims are false. Sometimes you read in the fine print that indeed the travel mug is partly dishwasher safe. Lids of most big brand high-quality travel mugs like Contigo or Thermos are dishwasher safe nowadays. And that’s a good thing!

The lid of a travel mug with all its nooks and crannies is very difficult to clean properly by hand. Sure, you can rinse it with hot water or soak it in some soapy water for a bit. This will clean the lid superficially, but over time you will see the coffee stains remain after a rinse or a soak. A dishwasher will clean your lid properly.

And to be fair, the body of a travel mug is pretty straightforward to clean. You put in some water and a mild detergent, break out the dish brush, give the thing a scrub and a rinse, and let it dry. No biggie.

But if you really want a fully dishwasher safe travel mug, there is only one way to go.

Yeti Ramblers are the best dishwasher safe travel mugs (period).

Yeti is an insulated gear manufacturer known for its coolers (hard and soft) and its insulated drinkware. And they make quality products. 

The Yeti mugs and tumblers will keep your coffee piping hot. They are durable, look cool, and dishwasher safe! Yeti has found a way to protect the vacuum seal so that you can put your rambler or mug in a dishwasher without risking damage.

I have found that Yeti’s insulated drinkware has one major downside. They don’t have leakproof lids. The lids are splash resistant but put them upside down in your bag, and they will leak. 

Fortunately, several third-party manufacturers produce leakproof lids to fit Yeti tumblers and mugs.  

I don’t want this article to turn into a sales page for Yeti products, but they do have the dishwasher safe feature of their tumblers and mugs down. Good products deserve to be mentioned.

If you are interested: check out    Yeti’s store on Amazon.com . 

MonsieurCoffee.com  is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. We earn small commissions on purchase made through links on this site, at no extra costs to you.

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How to clean travel mugs after your iced latte on the go

Everything you need to know about cleaning travel mugs

Good to know

Here's what you'll need, how to clean travel mugs.

You're gonna need to know how to clean travel mugs after a few drinks in yours. Can’t leave home without your reusable water bottle? Or maybe you opt for a travel mug that keeps your coffee warm all morning. Either way, travel mugs have become our trusty sidekicks during a long day of errands and a must-have if you’re traveling. 

While they certainly come in handy, when it comes to cleaning travel mugs, a quick rinse doesn’t always do the trick (and it doesn’t provide your cup with a deep clean). Plus, many reusable mugs and water bottles aren’t dishwasher safe. 

So, how can you truly get a deep clean without throwing your cup into the dishwasher? We’ve put together a step-by-step guide to help you ensure your go-to kitchen accessory stays sparkly clean. Don't forget to wash the straws that come in your water bottles and tumblers like these Stanley Cup alternatives or Shay Mitchell's favorite tumbler .

Time: 10 minutes (not including drying time) 

Difficulty: Easy

Helpful hints: If you have a dishwasher-safe mug and don’t have the time or supplies for a deep hand wash, place your mug on the top shelf of the dishwasher for the best clean possible. Placing it on the top shelf can help eliminate potential damage in the dishwasher. 

•  Dish soap (you can't go wrong with Mrs. Meyer's liquid dish soap available at Amazon )
• Distilled white vinegar (try Aunt Fannie's white vinegar available at Amazon )
•  Warm water 
• Baking soda (stock up on this 12-pack of Arm & Hammer baking soda available at Amazon )
• Mixing bowl (we like these Figmint glass mixing bowls from Target )

Step 1: Add your cleaning ingredients to your mug

Pour 1⁄2 cup of distilled white vinegar and 1 teaspoon of baking soda directly into your mug. We recommend pouring the contents into the mug while it’s held over the sink in case there’s any spillage. 

Let the mixture sit for a few minutes. It should bubble together, creating a light foam consistency.

 Step 2: Seal and shake

Replace the lid on your travel cup. If it has a sliding opening, make sure it is completely closed and sealed. If it has a straw opening, make sure you cover the opening tightly. Shake the mixture inside your travel mug, almost as if you’re mixing a margarita in a cocktail shaker.  

 Step 3: Rinse it out 

Dispose of the vinegar and baking soda mixture into your sink and rinse the cup with warm water. 

 Step 4: Get ready to soak

Fill a bowl with hot water and a few drops of dish soap. Soak your mug in this mixture for approximately 10 minutes. Add all components of your travel mug into the bowl. If you have a lid with a rubber seal or detachable parts, remove those and soak them together.  

Step 5: Give it a final rinse 

Rinse off any remaining residue off the mug and lid. 

Step 6: Dry your mug

The best method is to allow your mug to air dry overnight, but if you’re in a rush, drying it with a clean dish towel or paper towel will work just fine. 

How do I know if my travel mug is dishwasher safe?

When you purchase a new travel mug, be sure to look at the packaging to see if it notes that the product is dishwasher safe. If you don’t remember or already tossed the packaging, then look for a dishwasher-safe symbol, stamp, or label. On mugs, these labels are typically located on the bottom and look like a square box containing plates, glasses, or both symbols. 

How often do I need to clean my travel mug?

In an ideal world, we recommend rinsing it out after every use but life happens, right? One day your travel mug might be filled with water, the next it might be used to house coffee, then back to water. If you can get one deep clean in at least once a week, you should be good to go.

Tip: If you want a good, but not necessarily deep clean, soak the mug in warm soapy water overnight. When you are ready to fill it in the morning, rinse it out to get all the suds out. 

Put those cleaning supplies to work and get started with our fool-proof method.  While you're at it, look around the kitchen for other items you may be forgetting to clean like attachments and accessories.

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About me: 

Kara Thompson is a Denver-based journalist with over five years of experience writing lifestyle content. She has written for a variety of publications, including townandcountrymag.com, elledecor.com, goodhousekeeping.com, and Parents, where she covered all things home, food, fashion, travel, and holidays. During her time on staff at Parents, Kara launched her own home decor and organization column named Save My Space. In 2022, she left her full-time job as an editor and started her own writing, editing, and social media firm, Kara Thompson and Co.

Tennis, New York City, bourbon cocktails, and her sister's German Shepherd are a few of her favorite things.

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Why You Shouldn't Put Travel Mugs In The Dishwasher

Cooking is a great way to create something beautiful and delicious, or to show someone how much you care for them (even if that person is yourself). But there is nothing that will bring you down off the high of a good meal faster than seeing the dishes stacked up in your sink. If you have a dishwasher in that moment, it can be your saving grace, but it can't do it all .

A sink full of plates and glasses can usually get loaded into your standard dishwasher and come out looking spotless. However, there are still plenty of items that you should be washing by hand. Cast iron or non-stick pans can get ruined in dishwashers,  wooden spoons can warp and crack, and knives can be damaged or dulled.

Also on that list is your favorite insulated travel mug. While there are some mugs out there that will claim to be dishwasher safe, most are at risk of being damaged when put into the handy kitchen appliance (via Monsieur Coffee ).

How dishwashers harm travel mugs

Insulated travel mugs are absurdly versatile for something that is essentially designed to keep liquid separate from its environment as much as possible. They'll keep your drink hot. They'll keep your drink cold. They can be fashion statements . They can help the planet . But they can't go in your dishwasher.

The reason for this, according to Monsieur Coffee , is that the high water pressure and extreme heat cycles can damage their precious vacuum seal — and if the seal is damaged, your favorite travel mug will lose its insulating properties. 

Insulated mugs are built with a small chamber inside of a larger chamber that is separated by a small empty gap. The outer and inner chambers are sealed together after all of the air has been vacuumed out of this gap. Having this vacuum next to your coffee or tea keeps it at the same temperature because there are no particles there to conduct the heat away from your drink. This is how your coffee will stay the same temperature in a properly sealed mug even when walking in a blizzard.

However, putting your mug in a dishwasher can damage that seal, allow air into that vacuum, and make it less effective. It's best to simply scrub the interior of your favorite mug down with some warm water and a light dish detergent instead before letting it dry completely.

Are Contigo Coffee Cups Dishwasher Safe?

If you’re like me, you’re always on the lookout for ways to make your life easier. That’s why I was interested to read this article and find out if Contigo coffee mugs are dishwasher safe. I’m happy to report that they are! The lids can be washed on the top rack, and the mugs themselves can be washed by hand. However, if you have the stainless steel mug, you should only wash it by hand to avoid damaging the finish.

So, are contigo coffee cups dishwasher safe?

Yes, Contigo coffee mugs are dishwasher safe. The lids can be washed on the top rack, and the mugs themselves can be washed by hand. However, if you have the stainless steel mug, you should only wash it by hand to avoid damaging the finish.

Let’s dig into it and see if we can find a solution.

How Do You Clean A Contigo Coffee Cup?

There are a few different ways you can clean your contigo coffee cup, but the most important thing is to use a mild detergent and warm water. You can also use a citric acid solution to help break down any coffee stains.

To clean the lid of your contigo coffee cup, you can soak it in hot, soapy water for 10 minutes. Then, hand-wash the body of the cup with warm water and a mild detergent. Rinse both the lid and body of the cup thoroughly with clean water.

If you have a dishwasher, you can also wash your contigo coffee cup in the top rack. Just make sure to use a gentle cycle and don’t use any harsh detergents.

With a little bit of care, you can keep your contigo coffee cup clean and looking like new.

To clean a contigo coffee cup, use a mild detergent and warm water. You can also soak the lid in hot, soapy water for 10 minutes, then hand-wash the body of the cup with warm water and a mild detergent. Rinse both the lid and body of the cup thoroughly with clean water. If you have a dishwasher, you can wash your contigo coffee cup on the top rack using a gentle cycle.

Can You Put Contigo Coffee Cups In The Microwave?

Yes, you can microwave your Contigo travel mug for about 30 seconds at a time. However, if you need to keep beverages hot in it for extended periods of time, it’s best to use a different method.

One thing to keep in mind is that not all Contigo mugs are microwave safe. So be sure to check the label before putting it in the microwave. If the label says “Do not microwave,” then don’t do it!

Another thing to keep in mind is that microwaving your Contigo mug may cause it to sweat. So if you don’t want your mug to sweat, it’s best to avoid microwaving it.

In conclusion, yes, you can put Contigo coffee cups in the microwave, but there are some things you should keep in mind before doing so.

You can microwave your Contigo travel mug for about 30 seconds at a time. However, not all mugs are microwave safe, so check the label first. Additionally, microwaving your mug may cause it to sweat.

How Long Do Contigo Coffee Cups Last?

Contigo mugs are dishwasher safe, but it’s best to avoid putting them in the dishwasher if possible. Instead, wash them by hand to prolong their lifespan. With proper care, your Contigo mug can last for years to come!

With proper care, your Contigo mug can last for years to come.

What Is The Best Way To Store Contigo Coffee Cups?

If you’re like me, you love your Contigo coffee cups! They’re perfect for on-the-go, and they keep your coffee hot (or cold) for hours. But one thing I’ve always wondered is, are they dishwasher safe?

Turns out, the answer is yes! According to the Contigo website, all of their coffee cups are dishwasher safe. So if you’re ever in a hurry and don’t have time to hand wash your cup, just pop it in the dishwasher and it will come out good as new.

Now that we know they’re dishwasher safe, let’s talk about the best way to store them. I would recommend keeping them in a coffee mug holder or a cupboard where they won’t get knocked over. And if you have more than one, make sure to stack them so they don’t take up too much space.

That’s it! Now you know everything there is to know about storing your Contigo coffee cups. So go ahead and enjoy your favorite coffee on-the-go, without worry.

You can store Contigo coffee cups in a coffee mug holder or a cupboard. If you have more than one, stack them so they don’t take up too much space.

How Do You Travel With Contigo Coffee Cups?

If you’re a coffee lover, then you know that there’s nothing quite like a good cup of coffee on the go. But if you’re also someone who likes to travel light, then you might be wondering how you can travel with your favorite coffee mug.

Contigo makes some of the best travel mugs on the market, and they’re dishwasher safe, so you can easily clean them when you’re on the go. But how do you actually travel with them?

Here are a few tips:

1. Make sure that your mug is securely closed. The last thing you want is for your coffee to spill all over your bag.

2. If you’re going to be carrying your mug around all day, make sure to get one with a strap or handle. Contigo mugs have a great carrying handle that makes them easy to carry.

3. If you’re traveling by car, you can easily keep your mug in the cupholder. Just make sure that it’s securely closed so that you don’t have any spills.

4. If you’re traveling by plane, you can pack your mug in your carry-on bag. Just make sure to empty it before going through security.

5. When you’re not using your mug, make sure to store it in a safe place. Contigo mugs have a special seal that makes them leak-proof, so you can easily store them in your bag without worry.

By following these tips, you can easily travel with your favorite coffee mug without any worry. So next time you’re packing for a trip, make sure to bring along your Contigo mug and enjoy a great cup of coffee on the go.

To travel with a Contigo coffee mug, make sure it is securely closed and stored in a safe place. If you are carrying it around all day, get one with a strap or handle. If you are traveling by car, you can keep it in the cupholder. If you are traveling by plane, you can pack it in your carry-on bag.

Can Contigo Cups Go In Dishwasher?

Yes, Contigo cups can go in the dishwasher. You can clean the underside of the lid and the body of the cup in the top rack of the dishwasher. This will make your life easier and ensure that your cup is thoroughly clean.

What Happens If I Put My Contigo In The Dishwasher?

If you wash the Contigo travel mug lid in the dishwasher, it will be safe. However, the stainless steel body should be hand washed.

Is Contigo Stainless Steel Dishwasher Safe?

Yes, the Contigo stainless steel dishwasher is dishwasher safe. You can wash both the lid and the body in the dishwasher.

How Do You Clean A Contigo Cup?

To clean your Contigo cup, simply wash it with soap and water. You can also put it in the dishwasher, but be sure to place it on the top rack. If you notice any buildup on the cup, you can clean it with a vinegar solution.

Are Dishwasher Safe Travel Mugs Effective In Keeping Beverages Hot Or Cold?

There is no clear consensus on whether dishwasher safe travel mugs are effective in keeping beverages hot or cold. Some people swear by them, while others say they don’t work as well as advertised. The general consensus seems to be that dishwasher safe travel mugs are effective in keeping beverages hot or cold, but they are not necessarily the best option.

What Is The Best Travel Mug To Keep Coffee Hot?

The best travel mug to keep coffee hot is one that is made of stainless steel and is vacuum insulated. The Yeti Rambler Tumbler is a great option as it keeps coffee hot for hours. Other good options include the Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug and the Hydro Flask Travel Mug.

Yes, Contigo coffee cups are dishwasher safe! You can wash them in the top rack of your dishwasher, and they’ll come out clean and sparkling. Just be sure to let them air dry completely before using them again.

So there you have it – everything you need to know about Contigo coffee cups and whether they’re dishwasher safe. Now go forth and enjoy your coffee, knowing that you can easily clean your cup afterwards.

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Can I put my Contigo mug in the dishwasher?

By: Author Olin Wade (Remodel or Move Stuff)

Yes, you can put your Contigo mug in the dishwasher. However, it’s recommended that you use the top rack of the dishwasher and select a cycle that doesn’t use too much heat in order to preserve the integrity of the mug and avoid potential damage caused by intense heat.

Additionally, make sure that the mug is not touching other dishes or silverware while inside the dishwasher. To ensure maximum performance of your Contigo mug, it is important to clean the lid, straw, and body of the mug entirely and store them in a clean, dry area.

How do I clean my Contigo mug?

Cleaning your Contigo mug is easy and should be done routinely to maintain the quality and performance of this product. To start, remove all of the plastic pieces from the mug and hand-wash them with warm soapy water.

Rinse them thoroughly and allow them to dry completely before putting them back together.

Next, wash the inner and outer portion of the mug with warm soapy water. You can use a soft bristled brush if needed to remove any residue. Once the mug is clean, rinse it with hot water and allow it to dry completely.

For more thorough cleaning, you can place a mixture of 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda and warm water into the mug and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then, rinse with warm water and allow the mug to dry. If a stain remains, use a mild abrasive, like baking soda and water, to remove it.

After cleaning, it’s important to reassemble the mug, including the lid and straw, properly. Inspect the pieces and make sure they are free of any debris and click them back together as directed by the manufacturer.

Following these steps will help ensure that your Contigo mug is properly cleaned and functioning optimally.

Can you put stainless steel travel mugs in the dishwasher?

Yes, you can put stainless steel travel mugs in the dishwasher. It is generally safe to do so as long as the mug does not have any plastic components or liners. To ensure that the mug is fully sanitized, it is best to set your dishwasher’s cycle to a higher temperature and use a heavy soap or cleaner.

Keep in mind that the handle of the mug is usually made of a different material than the cup, and may not be dishwasher-safe. Additionally, some stainless steel mugs can be washed on the top rack of the dishwasher, while others may require gentle hand-washing instead.

What is dishwasher safe symbol?

The dishwasher safe symbol is a simple graphic icon of a plate and glass with water droplets. It typically appears on dishware that is safe to wash in the dishwasher. The symbol indicates that the item is safe for multiple cleaning cycles in a standard domestic dishwasher, meaning it won’t rust, crack, fade, or otherwise be damaged by repeated dishwasher cycles.

While dishware varies in terms of how much wear and tear it can handle before needing to be replaced, dishwasher safe items typically last longer than those that are not safe for the dishwasher.

Why are insulated bottles not dishwasher safe?

Insulated bottles are typically not dishwasher safe due to their construction. Generally, they have an extra layer of insulation, which means they have more layers of material than other containers, such as aluminum bottles.

This extra layer of insulation often prevents the water from entering the bottle during the dishwashing process, resulting in insufficient cleaning and a potential breeding ground for bacteria. Additionally, the insulation can make it more difficult to ensure even heat distribution during cleaning, as the insulation can block the heat.

Not only can this lead to a lower quality clean, but it can also damage the insulation, leading to a loss of temperature control and an overall decrease in the durability of the bottle. For these reasons, insulated bottles are typically not considered to be dishwasher safe.

Why does my water bottle smell even after washing?

The primary cause is likely due to poor cleaning practices or build up of residue inside the bottle.

If you’re washing your water bottle by hand, it’s important to make sure you’re effectively sanitizing it. Use a bottle brush to reach the hard-to-reach spots where bacteria can accumulate, and make sure to use hot soapy water with an anti-bacterial cleanser.

Consider running vinegar or lemon juice through the bottle once in a while to help remove the buildup of bacteria and residue.

If you’ve been using your water bottle in the microwave, the smell might be emanating from the heat-resistant plastic used to make the bottle. If this is the case, consider replacing the bottle with one made from stainless steel, or a microwavable-safe glass or ceramic container.

Finally, it’s possible that a bacteria or odor-causing chemical has interacted with the plastic inside the bottle, releasing a scent that won’t go away. Over time, the harsh chemicals found in hot beverages, household cleaners, and even some sponges can cause damage to the plastic and make it harder to keep your water bottle clean.

If nothing else works, it may be wise to invest in a new water bottle.

How do you know if your water bottle is dishwasher safe?

The best way to know if your water bottle is dishwasher safe is to check the manufacturer’s instructions. Many modern water bottles specify that they are safe to use in the dishwasher, though it is always best to double-check the instructions.

If the instructions do not explicitly state that your water bottle is dishwasher safe, you should err on the side of caution and handwash it instead. Make sure to avoid extremely hot water and excessive scrubbing when hand-washing, as it could damage the integrity of the bottle.

Additionally, you should pay attention to the materials used to construct the bottle. Plastic, silicon, and metal are usually safe, whereas wooden or fabric water bottles are not safe for the dishwasher.

How do you get coffee stains out of Contigo?

Getting coffee stains out of a Contigo mug or thermos can be easily done with a few simple steps.

1) Fill the mug or thermos with warm water and a tablespoon of dish soap. Let the mixture sit for an hour or two to let the dish soap work its magic on the stain.

2) Remove the mug from the mixture and scrub away the stain with a soft brush. Use a bristled toothbrush or an old rag.

3) Rinse the mug thoroughly with clean water to remove the soapy residue.

4) Using a clean cloth, apply a mixture of water and vinegar to the stain. This will help break down the stain further. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes and then scrub with the brush again.

5) Rinse the mug with clean water once more, and the stain should be gone.

6) If the stain still persists, you can repeat the process with a solution of baking soda and water. Again, let it sit for 10-15 minutes and then scrub with a brush. Rinse the mug with clean water and the stain should be completely removed.

Does vinegar remove coffee stains?

Yes, vinegar can be effective at removing coffee stains from clothing and other fabric. To use it, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a bowl. Apply the vinegar solution to the stained area and allow it to sit for about one hour.

After an hour, rinse the fabric in cold water, and then wash it with a gentle detergent. Alternatively, you could pour the vinegar directly onto the stain and let it sit overnight before laundering the fabric as usual.

For a tougher stain, try making a paste of baking soda and water and rubbing it into the stained area before applying the vinegar. This combination should help to break down the stain and make it easier to remove.

How do you make stainless steel look new again?

Stainless steel can be polished to look new again. The most important part of polishing stainless steel is to clean the surface. This can be done using warm water, soap, and a sponge. Make sure to rinse all the soap off after cleaning.

Then, use steel wool to rub off any rust or surface residue. Follow up with a soft cloth to dry the surface, and then apply a good quality stainless steel cleaner or polish. For the best results, repeat this process two or three times and use a separate cloth for each polish.

After the polish has been applied, buff the stainless steel until it is bright and shiny.

Can you take apart a Contigo lid?

Yes, you can take apart a Contigo lid. You can remove both the inner and outer pieces of the lid by unscrewing the middle section of it. The material that the lid is made from is usually plastic, which makes the lid easy to remove and put back together again.

To do this, you will need a Phillips head screwdriver and possibly some pliers or wire cutters depending on the type of lid. Once you have the middle section unscrewed, the top and bottom pieces of the lid should come off easily.

Once you have the top and bottom pieces off, you can then access the inner part of the lid and remove the screws securing it to the base. After the inner part is removed, you can then remove the silicone gasket and complete the task of taking apart the Contigo lid.

How do you get mold out of a water bottle lid?

Mold can be a tricky problem to get out of the lid of a water bottle, but there are a few things you can do to try to remove it.

The first step is to make sure your bottle lid is clean. Start by scrubbing the lid with warm, soapy water and a dish brush or rag soaked in vinegar. This will help to remove any dirt and debris that may be trapping the mold and preventing it from being removed.

You may also want to soak the lid in a vinegar or baking soda solution, as this will help to break down the mold on the surface.

Next, you will need to use a bleach solution to kill the remaining mold and prevent it from growing back. Make a solution of one part bleach and 10 parts water and apply it to the lid with a clean cloth.

Leave the solution on the lid for a few minutes before rinsing it off thoroughly with cold water. If the lid is really dirty, you may need to repeat this process a few times.

If the bleach solution does not work, you may need to use a commercial cleaner specifically designed for killing mold and mildew. Apply the cleaner to the lid according to the manufacturer’s instructions and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing off.

Finally, always make sure to thoroughly dry your water bottle lid after washing and cleaning it, as mold loves moisture. You can also introduce some extra ventilation to your water bottle by punching a few small holes in the lid.

This will help to keep the water bottle dry, stopping the growth of any new mold.

How do you remove black mold from rubber seal?

Removing black mold from a rubber seal can be a difficult process. The first step is to identify the source of the mold and the severity of the issue before attempting to remove it. If the affected area is small and the mold is located within a narrow space, it can usually be wiped away with a damp cloth or sponge.

For larger areas and more stubborn spots of mold, a mix of water and distilled white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide can be sprayed onto the area and be gently scrubbed away with a soft-bristled brush or a non-abrasive sponge.

It is important to be sure not to use any abrasive materials on the rubber, as this could damage the material. If the mold does not come off using detergent or a soapy solution, you may need to use a stronger commercial product to remove the mold safely.

When the mold is gone, it is important to dry the area thoroughly to prevent it from recurring. To reduce the risk of mold reappearing, you may want to use a disinfectant such as bleach or hydrogen peroxide in the area and on the rubber seal.

After the area is clean and dry, use a protective sealant to help protect the rubber seal from future mold growth.

Can you get sick from drinking out of a moldy water bottle?

Yes, it is possible to get sick from drinking out of a moldy water bottle. Consuming mold can cause a range of ill health effects, including respiratory issues, allergic reactions of the skin, stomach upset, headaches, and more.

Furthermore, the condition of the bottle itself could open you up to the risk of ingesting harmful bacteria or other contaminants from the environment.

Unfortunately, it can be difficult to determine if there is mold inside the bottle or on its surface. Even if the bottle looks clean, there could be hidden mold spores inside. This is why it is so important to take proper care of water bottles, as they can easily become contaminated with mold.

Regularly clean your bottle in warm, soapy water and allow it to air dry. Change the water valves if they are loose and replace the filters if they are old. Furthermore, avoid storing your bottle in damp places like bathrooms or near windows where moisture can easily collect.

And finally, always replace your bottle if you suspect it has developed any mold or bad odors.

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Are Contigo Water Bottles Dishwasher Safe? (Find Out Now!)

Contigo is currently one of the most popular manufacturers of refillable water bottles out there. In recent years, reusable water bottles have grown in popularity for their numerous advantages. Not only do they help encourage the user to drink more water, they’re also better on the environment and your wallet than single-use plastic bottles.

Though, with daily use, your reusable water bottle can become a breeding ground for bacteria, buildup, and potentially even mold. For this reason, it’s important that you adequately clean your water bottle on a regular basis – which brings us to the question: “Are Contigo water bottles dishwasher safe?”

Upon doing research, we discovered that most Contigo water bottles and their detachable parts are top-rack dishwasher safe. This includes the lids, straws, plastic bodies, and even glass bodies with silicone sleeves. However, the Contigo water bottles with stainless steel bodies – including the Contigo AUTOSPOUT Stainless Steel Water Bottle – are not dishwasher safe and should be hand washed.

With that said, let’s explore the proper techniques to cleaning a Contigo water bottle. That way, you can enjoy the benefits of your reusable water bottle, without exposing yourself to germs and bacteria.

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Cleaning a Contigo Water Bottle

Contigo offers a number of different models, types, designs, and materials of water bottles. Ultimately, the specific cleaning method will depend on the material that the bottle is made out of. While most bottles and parts can be run through a dishwasher cycle on the top rack, there are some that cannot.

Regardless, the materials that you’ll likely need to clean your Contigo water bottle are as follows:

• Mild dish detergent
• Bottle brush

Note: Regardless of the material that the bottle is made out of, Contigo urges to NEVER use cleaners that contain bleach, chlorine, abrasives, or any other harsh chemicals.

How to Clean a Plastic Contigo Water Bottle

Since they are both affordable and widely available, plastic Contigo water bottles are among the most popular. As an added bonus, they don’t contain the harmful BPA that most single-use plastic bottles do. Unfortunately, though, the drawback to plastic water bottles is that they tend to retain some of the odors or flavors of what you store inside.

There are a number of different plastic water bottle models available from Contigo, but the good news is that they are all dishwasher safe. You can place the lid, plastic body, and the straw (if it has one) on the top rack of your dishwasher.

Of course, you can still hand wash these bottles if you’d prefer to do so, or if you simply don’t have a dishwasher in your home. Follow these steps to hand wash your plastic Contigo water bottle:

• Remove the lid and the straw. To remove the straw, do not attempt to pull it out. Instead, just twist it to the left to release.
• Soak the lid in hot, soapy water for 10 minutes.
• Add a couple of drops of mild detergent into the bottle body and use a bottle brush to thoroughly scrub all the components of the bottle.
• Rinse all of the bottle parts well and leave them out separated to air dry.

If you don’t have a bottle cleaning brush you can use a sponge or old toothbrush. Follow the above steps to clean both the interior and exterior of your Contigo plastic water bottle.

How to Clean Glass Contigo Water Bottle

Undeniably, glass is seen as one of the best materials for storing food and liquids. It won’t transfer any undesirable odors or flavors into the water. Since glass is a non-porous material it is incredibly easy to clean and won’t absorb grime or stains. Like plastic Contigo water bottles, glass Contigo water bottles are also top-rack dishwasher safe. This includes the lid, glass body, and even the silicone sleeve (if applicable).

If you choose to hand wash the water bottle instead, fill up the bottle with warm water and add in some mild dish soap. Scrub both the glass body and the attached lid using a bottle brush and rinse thoroughly. After you’re done cleaning, always store the bottle with the lid detached and allow all the components to dry completely before use.

How to Clean a Stainless Steel Contigo Water Bottle

Like glass, stainless steel is an excellent alternative to plastic water bottles – particularly for those who don’t want a water bottle that holds the flavors and smells of its contents. The downside to stainless steel Contigo water bottles is that the bodies are not dishwasher safe, and must be hand washed instead. The lid and straw, however, are top-rack dishwasher safe.

To hand wash a stainless steel Contigo water bottle, the cleaning method is similar to both glass and plastic bottles. Let the lid soak in hot, soapy water for about 10 minutes. Then, hand wash the lid, body, and straw using warm water, a mild detergent, and a bottle brush. Rinse all the components before use and leave them detached to dry fully.

Are Contigo Water Bottles Dishwasher Safe?

In order for a dishwasher to be effective at sanitizing, it must reach the proper water temperature. Many dishwashers have sanitizing cycles, which just means the cycle is longer and hotter to kill germs. Since dishwashers provide a convenient way to sanitize your dishes, it’s logical to wonder whether or not your Contigo water bottles are dishwasher safe.

Fortunately, both plastic and glass Contigo water bottles, along with their attached components, are all top-rack dishwasher safe. The stainless steel bodies are the only Contigo bottles that cannot be placed in the dishwasher.

Related Questions

How often should i clean my contigo water bottle.

The manufacturer says that you should wash your Contigo water bottle thoroughly before the first use. You should then rinse the bottle immediately after each use, by removing the straw and running warm water with the spout open. A thorough cleaning is recommended at least once a week.

Why does my reusable water bottle smell?

Although water may be the only thing you put in your reusable bottle, bacteria can get into the bottle via your mouth – resulting in a foul odor.

Jessica considers herself a home improvement and design enthusiast. She grew up surrounded by constant home improvement projects and owes most of what she knows to helping her dad renovate her childhood home. Being a Los Angeles resident, Jessica spends a lot of her time looking for her next DIY project and sharing her love for home design.

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Best Dishwasher Safe Coffee Travel Mugs in 2023

Imagine having a cup of coffee and watching the sunset after a long tiring outdoor adventure.

It could be the best relaxing moment any traveler could imagine. Taking a travel coffee mug is becoming a trend nowadays for various reasons including this one.

Since the manufacturers are coming with options, things may get confusing while picking up the right one for you.

Considering all of your demands, in this article, I will let you know about some of the best dishwasher-safe coffee travel mugs to help you enjoy your beverages at any moment during your outdoor adventure.

Table of Contents

The Necessity of Dishwasher Safe Coffee Travel Mug

Traveling is at the same time entertaining and exhausting. You will hardly find an alternative to a cup of coffee to get rid of tiredness. While most coffee makers are weighty, a dishwasher-safe coffee travel mug could be the best choice for every traveler.

These mugs, with their lots of features, will serve you for a long time. They will keep your beverages hot and cold as per the demand by offering an insulation system. Most of them are suitable to put inside the car coffee cup holders. You can enjoy your drinks inside your vehicle as well.

These mugs are at the same time leak and splash-proof. Nowadays they are an integral part of traveling gear for their durability and portability. Taking a dishwasher-safe mug can take your outdoor adventure to the next level.

My Top Picks

Swig Life 18oz Dishwasher Safe Travel Mug

Contigo Luxe AUTOSEAL Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug

Contigo Handled AUTOSEAL Vacuum-Insulated Stainless Steel Travel Mug

Also Read: A List of My Favorite Keurig Coffee Maker for Travel Mugs.

Top 7 Best Dishwasher Safe Coffee Travel Mugs in 2022

Out of many travel-coffee mugs available everywhere, here are my top seven picks:

1. Swig Life 18oz Dishwasher Safe Cup Holder Friendly Travel Mug

This model from Swing Life Store is one of the best dishwasher-safe travel mugs with a handle. Maintaining quality and durability, it has become a popular travel mug. You will have the flexibility to choose your suitable one from over 40 different designs and prints. Along with traveling, you can also use it as a different occasional gift to your dear ones.

Design and Material

This product comes with an unconventional design, very different from other usual products available in the market. There are more than 43 color and design options from where you can select your desired one. When it comes to its build material, it is stainless steel made which makes it very much durable and long-lasting. The original color is purple reign.

It can contain 18 ounces of fluids, which will always ensure you get enough liquid when needed. The total dimensions of this product are 5 x 5 x 5.75 inches. The material is dishwasher safe; don’t put it in the freezer or microwave.

Compatibility

The cleaning is easy by removing the slider from the lid. The material is at the same time noise, scratch, and sleep-free. It will fit any standard car cup holdings makes it a perfect coffee mug for travel. It will keep liquids hot for more than three hours. In contrast, it will keep cold for more than 9 hours.

The wall is vacuum-sealed and double-coated with copper plate insulation, making it thicker. While you go out, it will aesthetically serve you your favorite beverage. You can also use it as a gift item for your loved ones to make their outdoor adventures colorful.

Things I Love

• Premium material
• High capacity
• Long-lasting
• Color flexibility
• Standard size

Things to Improve

• Sensitive to bleach.

2. Contigo Autoseal Vacuum-Insulated Stainless Steel Travel Mug

Contigo Store comes with this uniquely designed vacuum insulated travel mug. Since its launch on September 11th, 2017, it has gained peoples’ trust for its excellent performance and long-lasting capability.

Providing many different technologies and modern features, it is a great dishwasher-safe travel coffee mug with stainless steel. Taking it in your travel will reduce the hardship of making coffee and make your journey much smoother.

Building with stainless steel, this cup is durable, sturdy, and long-lasting. It can store up to 16 ounces of fluid. The item dimensions are 8 x 3.8 x 8.5 inches. It comes with auto seal technology, which will help it to stop spills. The running mechanism is also easy. You must press the button, drink the liquid, and seal it again.

The weight is only 1.05 pounds, you can carry it around anywhere without any hassle. The temperature will remain the same inside for hours.

Due to the thermal lock installation, it can keep liquid hot for more than five hours and cold for 12 hours. It will give you much comfort while you go outside and move. Since the hot keeping capacity is strong, it is better to cool it down for a few minutes in case, it is hot.

With the lock feature, you will be able to avoid hassles created by the auto seal button. The cleaning mechanism is also easy. Since the lid is one piece, there will be no misplacing parts; you can clean it immediately.

• Lightweight
• Auto seal technology
• Temperature store
• Excessive hot liquid may mold the lid.

3. Contigo Luxe AUTOSEAL Vacuum-Insulated Spill-Proof Travel Mug

Another popular travel mug that keeps coffee hot the longest is this model from the Contigo store. If you are searching for a perfect vacuum insulated travel mug, this could be your go-to go item.

Offering smooth using and cleaning experiences, it’s one of the highly rated travel coffee mugs that you will find online. Comparing the price with the performance, it is a good choice for your next outdoor adventure.

Like the previous two items, this mug is also stainless steel. The company made it super travel-friendly since the weight is only 0.4 pounds. It will always ensure that you never run out of liquid and get adequate at the time of your need.

It offers an auto seal function; this is how the lid protects and prevents leaking and spilling while you move. The wall is double vacuum insulation, making it durable and long-lasting at the same time.

It keeps drinks hot for up to five hours and cold for 12 hours. It has a lock system to prevent any accidents caused by the auto seal mistakenly. You can thoroughly clean the whole mug without any hassle. Dishwasher-safe material will protect the mug from any scratches.

The size is ideal and will fit in maximum cup holders and is also suitable for most of the brewers out there. The material is completely BPA-free. No harm to the environment will happen from it.

• Travel-friendly
• Leak and spill-proof
• Special lock system
• The mouth area is excessively curvy.

4. Mora Double Wall Dishwasher Safe Ceramic Coffee Travel Mug

You can choose this model if you are searching for a stylish and well-designed dishwasher-safe coffee mug. Thanks to the Mora Ceramics Hit Pause store for producing this beautiful item targeting travelers. It will provide a fashionable look to you and help your personality flourish.

Without heavy metals like lead or cadmium, it is also safe for your health and will be environmentally friendly as well.

Ceramic mugs are popular among users. This mug is premium ceramic. With an exquisite design, it will look more stylish in your hand. While holding it, the simple yet gorgeous design will enhance your personality.

This mug can keep 13.92 ounces of liquid. The item dimensions are 3.5 x 2.5 x 6.5 inches. The material is lead-free and natural. You don’t have to worry about any harmful effects from the material. This dishwasher-safe mug is lead and BPA free too.

Being 1.15 pounds, it is lightweight and easily portable anywhere with you. It has a system of reminders that will remind you to hit the pause button. It will be a wise choice for enjoying yourself alone with a cup of coffee. You will find a drinking hole that reduces the possibility of spilling water. It will remain close and will not open accidentally anyway.

This model is one of the best microwave-safe coffee travel mugs you will find around. The paladin clay on the wall makes it stronger. The outside of the body will protect your hands from burning. It will be a perfect travel mug if you want to get the pure taste of your drink.

• Microwave safe
• Stylish and beautiful design
• Drinking hole
• Paladin clay coating
• A bit noisy.

5. Stanley Classic Hot & Cold Thermos Trigger Action Travel Mug

Stanley launched this model in February 2019. From that time till now, it has established its reputation for maintaining quality and long-lasting durability. People, especially travelers, like this model very much. Top-class ratings from different consumers and positive reviews expressively support the statement.

Taking such an item in your next travel will reduce a lot of unwanted situations of bearing coffee at the time of your need.

Nightfall color and simple design make this mug a very stylish and suitable one. The design will fit most standard cup holders of the cars. It will ease your beverage drinking experience while you are on the go. Stainless steel material makes it strong, durable, and long-lasting.

It can keep liquids up to 1.3 pounds. The wall is double-coated insulation and helps to keep your drinks hot up to 9 hours and cold up to 12 hours. It can also contain ice intact for almost two days.

The material is BPA-free. You can be safe from harmful material and drink water without tension. The triggered lid enables it to be spill-proof and makes it perfect to use while you’re moving. The weight is only 0.9 pounds and easy to carry anywhere with you. The components are also dishwasher safe. Cleaning the mug is also facile by opening the lead.

• Beautiful design
• Standard dimensions
• Double-wall
• A chemical flavor.

6. VOLCAROCK Insulated Stainless Steel Dishwasher Safe Coffee Travel Mug

This stainless-steel product will be one of the best travel mugs dishwasher safes within the budget. Simple design yet great functionality makes this model on my list. With a high capacity of keeping your coffee hot for several hours, you can rely on this product when you are on the go for your next adventure. Considering all the features it provides, the price is very much reasonable and fair enough.

This travel mug comes with a splendid design and excellent grip. The 18/8 stainless steel makes it more durable and long-lasting. It never faints or sweats due to the powder coating that adds additional texture. It also prevents from peel and cracking.

It does not contain any polymers or synthetic elements. This mug is also BPA-free and without lead. You can comfortably use it without any worry. It will not harm the environment either. The capacity is 16 ounces of liquid, giving enough storage for your need.

Powered by an additional grip, you can hold it easily and use it while you are moving. The body consists of premium powder coating. The lid is Triton material, ensuring you enjoy the original taste.

This insulated cup will make sure the beverages stay well within the temperature. It can keep hot coffees warm for five hours and cold for six hours. It contains an easy-functioning lid that enables fast and comfortable use. The mechanism will also prevent any types of splashes or peeling.

• Durable and sturdy
• Powder coating
• Nature-friendly
• Good insulator
• Not fit for maximum cup holders.

7. VeeFine Dishwasher Safe 100% leak-Proof Flip Lid Coffee Travel Mug

Providing so many unique features, this model from the VeeFine is one of my favorites. This durable product comes with many color combinations to choose from. This product’s popularity is increasing daily since it is very lightweight and travel-friendly. Coming with environmentally friendly material, this one is a great item for a safe travel experience.

Like my previous models, this one is also 18/8 stainless steel made. The lead is completely BPA free and being environment-friendly, it reduces the chances of any harm caused by chemical materials. It keeps your beverage well insulated for hours due to the double-wall coating.

The item dimensions are 2.48 x 2.48 x 6.3 inches. The design is suitable for any outdoor adventure including hiking, camping, and trekking.

Being leak-proof, it keeps your hand dries all the time even if you use it while traveling. This model is at the same time splash-proof; nothing comes out while moving or shaking. You can carry it inside your backpack on any trekking. Due to the flip lid, holding it is also easy with one hand.

Being a perfect model for outdoor adventure, this dishwasher-safe cup will offer your beverages the original taste. The size will fit in any standard cup holder. The weight being only 10.5 ounces, it is lightweight and easily portable also.

• Environmentally friendly
• Splash and leak proof
• Easy holding
• The drinking hole is a bit small.

Things to Know Before Buying a Dishwasher Safe Coffee Travel Mugs

A few important things to know before buying a dishwasher-safe travel coffee mug. Some of them are noted here below:

Temperature Retention

Temperature retention is an important element to look at while buying a travel coffee mug. High insulation capacity will keep your beverages hot or cold according to your demand, which is pretty much necessary.

Washability

Checking the mug whether it is dishwasher safe or not, is an important thing to consider. If it enables hand washing, then you have to make sure you can thoroughly clean it with sponge materials or a bottle brush. Check the washability procedure before buying.

Durability is another crucial factor. Most of the travel coffee mugs of stainless steel are durable, sturdy, and long-lasting. If they have a double-coated layer, they become even more powerful.

Resistance to Leakage

Having a spill-proof and leak-proof lid is very important. Check out the lid mechanism whether it can protect the leakage from inside.

Ease of Use

You don’t want to bear any extra burden while drinking beverages in traveling. Smooth opening and closing are thereby criteria to give you a flexible experience. See whether it contains enough grip on your hand because holding it in moving conditions might give you a challenging task.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most of them are suitable to fit inside a standard cup holder.

They are BPA-free and environmentally friendly. You can drink from them without any worry.

The inner material of these mugs is mostly stainless steel.

Depending on the models, my suggested products can keep your beverage hot or cold from 3-8 hours or even more.

Final Words

Choosing the right travel coffee mug can give you a pleasant experience and save you from hazards. My list of the best dishwasher-safe coffee travel mug will help you find the right product and take your adventure to the next level. Pick any of them according to your requirements and enjoy your outdoor adventures with freshness.

You May Also Like:

Can You Put Travel Mugs in the Dishwasher?

A List Of My Favorites Electric Cooker for Travelling.

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How To Clean Stuff.net

How to Wash a Contigo Travel Mug

Regular cleaning, deep cleaning the lid, additional tips and advice.

Brenda asked: I have a Contigo coffee travel mug. It seals by a vacuum-like press. How do I clean in the tight places of the lid? I use milk in my coffee and it gets yucky. I almost need a brush the size of a cotton swab, but bendable.

You Will Need:

• Dish soap or detergent
• Soft cloths
• Baby bottle brush (some have nipple brushes as well that are smaller)
• Small brush (such as Wilton tip brush )
• Disposable mascara brush
• Interdental brush
• Pipe cleaner

Steps to Wash the Mug:

• Fill the sink with warm water.
• Add a small amount of dish soap or dish detergent.
• Agitate the water to mix until suds form.
• Place the entire cup into the water so that it is completely submerged.
• Allow the cup to soak for several minutes to loosen any dried on dirt or drinks.
• Use a soft cloth or sponge to wash the surfaces, both inside and out.
• Use the bottle brush or disposable mascara brush to clean the inside of the cup/mug and remove any residue from the beverages on the bottom.
• Use a small brush to clean the grooves and tight areas in the lid. Small bottle brushes are built on a wire and can be bent to reach difficult areas. Manicare is a brand of disposable mascara brushes that also can be bent.
• Rinse all pieces of the cup/mug thoroughly with clean water.
• Dry with a soft cloth.
• Set it on a drying rack and allow it to air dry completely.

If the above cleaning with a tiny brush was not enough to clean out all the gunk from the lid, here are some deeper cleaning methods.

• A denture tablet

Steps to Remove the Build-Up:

• After you have finished cleaning the lid with the above method using a tiny brush, fill the cup with water, attach the lid and lock it.
• Shake the cup vigorously. This will help to release more of the gunk that was loosened with the brush but did not come out. It can help to use seltzer or club soda instead of plain water while doing this.
• Empty out the water and gunk by turning the cup upside-down and pressing the release button.
• Fill a bowl with water and put the lid in the bowl.
• Drop in a denture tablet and let it fizz for as long as needed.
• This process can be repeated as many times as needed to remove all of the gunk.
• Always store the mugs and cups with the lids removed. This will prevent moisture from becoming trapped in the cup, and ward off mold and other growth. With a Contigo lid, something must be used to hold open the spout however, such as by placing it upside-down on a dishwasher rack post or inserting a hard plastic straw.
• Metal cups can be placed in the dishwasher along with the lids. However, painted, plastic and ceramic cups should be hand washed. All lids can be washed in the dishwasher.
• If you can’t get all of the gunk out of your lid, you may be able to order a replacement lid.
• New models of the Contigo cup have an easy-clean lid that opens up for cleaning inside it.
• There are many great comments on this page with helpful ideas, such as using a water flosser, an air compressor, hydrogen peroxide, or a combination of baking soda and white vinegar (which foam up when combined – sprinkle baking soda into the lid, then pour in the vinegar). Thank you to everyone who has helped!

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About the author.

I'm a stay-at-home mom who used to run a small housecleaning business. These days I consider myself more or a mad cleaning-scientist. I do most of the testing for our articles - as well as helping Mark & Melanie write them.

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February 8, 2010 at 11:45 pm

Instead of Polident, you can use one tablespoon baking soda and one tablespoon vinegar + some water.

Clean the lid vigorously with water to get gunk out. Push the button a few times as you run water on it. Rinse the lid.

Over the sink, hold the lid on it’s back. Put about 2 warm tablespoons water INSIDE the lid.

Put the baking soda in. Shake the lid a bit so the baking soda dilutes in the water.

Now add the tablespoon vinegar. The water will fizz.

When it’s nearly done fizzing, push the button a few times so the mix cleans the “closed” area too.

Rinse the lid under warm water, and clean it. You’ll need to rinse REALLY well because it might smell like vinegar, but the smell will go away.

It takes less than 30 seconds when you’re used to it.

February 9, 2010 at 3:40 am

If you frequent a coffee shop, ask the nice people behind the counter to “Steam your lid” using the high pressure steam from the Cappuccino machine. The people at my coffee shop do this for everyone who brings in their own mugs. It works great if done regularly, but not sure if it will work for lids or mugs that have been left to build-up mold.

June 13, 2010 at 7:08 pm

I swear by these mugs; LOVE THEM! The best way to clean out the top is to use the hottest water and pressure to get in the small areas. I left coffee in mine once and it got a big nasty, so I soaked it in hot soapy water for a few hours, then used the high power hot water to get all the small spots, then cleaned again. It worked great. I see here they are saying to put the mug in dishwasher. Disregard that. You can put the lid in, but not the mug itself because it is vacuum sealed. This may mess up the seal. Always best to clean the mug part by hand.

September 7, 2010 at 11:40 am

If you have an air compressor, I use a blower and hit the lid with 100 psi air after soaking. Gets all I can see out.

February 14, 2011 at 6:49 pm

After soaking the lid, I use a pipe cleaner. Works well and is cheap.

February 20, 2011 at 1:10 am

Boiling the lid for 10 minutes helps get all the black gunk out of the inside of the lid. Just soap and water will not do it. I need to try the 30 second baking soda and vinegar treatment recommended here.

March 20, 2011 at 8:04 am

To clean the lid, I would suggest temporarily jamming open the mouth piece and then placing into the dishwasher. Otherwise, the sealed parts that are compressed against the lid are not exposed for cleaning.

December 6, 2011 at 10:49 am

These are the best travel mugs ever! The only downside is the cleaning part.

I had a black lid on mine and I guess I didn’t realize or see the build up. I washed it daily and then after about six months, I took a sip of coffee and ended up with a long, rubbery string in my mouth. Kinda gross.

So here is what I did. I took two tablespoons of dish washing machine detergent and poured it into the cup. I then took hot tap water and filled it up 3/4 full. I put the lid back on and shook the mug upside down for about 20 seconds. While still holding the mug upside down, I pushed the button to release a bit of the soapy water. Shook it again for about 10 seconds, and again released a bit of water. Then I placed the mug in an empty kitchen sink upside down. The water/soap was able to eat away at the crud.

In the morning, I shook the mug again for about 30 seconds, then opened it and looked inside (if you’ve had your mug for a few months and have only been hand washing it, you will see lots of crud floating in the water). I poured out the water, and filled it 3/4 of the way up with hot water. I put the lid on it again and shook upside down while periodically pressing the button. Once there was no more crud in the water, the mug was clean.

In addition to hand washing, I do this technique once a week to keep it shiny clean!

December 19, 2011 at 6:13 pm

Jamming the lid open is a good call! I used a toothpick and that did the trick. Now, when soaking the mug or putting it in the dishwasher, I know I’m getting the sealed-off portion of the spout! Thanks guys!

January 4, 2018 at 1:53 pm

This applies to the first lid they came up with, which was unforgettable as a product design. It is very difficult to clean unless you have very small lab bottle brushes you can bend. The newer mugs have the flip open lid which is a great improvement but still need careful cleaning.

March 8, 2012 at 11:45 am

To clean I: 1. Soak both the lid and mug in hot soapy water for 10 minutes or so. Wash the mug with a soft cloth and/or brush. 2. Rinse the lid well to get any currently-loose gunk out. 3. Take some of the soapy water and put it in the mug. Put on the lid. 4. Shake it vigorously! (Be careful not the press the button while you do!) When done, press the button to let some of the hot air out. 5. Open and check out all the black gunk in the water! Dump it into empty sink. 6. Repeat with soapy water 1–2 more times, then do 1–2 repeats only with hot water from the tap (no soap) until you aren’t seeing gunk. 7. Now refill one last time, fill halfway or so with hot water again, put on the lid, turn it upside down and press the button to let the water drain out the spout.

Should be good!

March 23, 2012 at 4:37 pm

Fill the mug with very hot water, put lid back on tight, then shake mug and lid vigorously. Place it towards the sink with the lid facing down. Allow water to shoot through the hole by depressing the button. Do this several times. Avoid pointing it at any body parts, as this water will come out pressurized. Take the lid off and dump the excess water in sink. Repeat until the desired clean level is achieved. (Again, avoid pointing directly at body parts! Not responsible for anyone not following the safety of this cleaning method.)

May 2, 2012 at 2:00 pm

I use my Contigo once per day for lattes. I clean it thoroughly after each use, including soaking the mug full of hot soapy water upside down, shaking vigorously and shooting the water out the vents and drinking spout, baking soda, vinegar (balsamic), etc. That disgusting stuff still comes out in my mouth sometimes, and I was wondering what I was doing wrong as this simply could NOT be acceptable performance to Contigo. Well, it appears that there is really no way to avoid this. If it wasn’t for the things the mugs do really well, they would have gone in the trash a long time ago. I wonder when someone will get E.coli, or salmonella, or who knows what from these things. Just hope it’s not me!

May 23, 2012 at 1:16 pm

This morning, I came up with an idea. It seemed to work. I used my bathroom WaterPik oral irrigator (basically a miniature power-wash) and blasted the crap out of the lid. Then, I proceeded to put in 1/4 cup of hot water and did my morning “shake weight exercise” on it. Tonight, I’m going to boil the crap out of it! These mugs are great, but they really need to come up with a design that can be disassembled for cleaning!

July 15, 2012 at 10:58 pm

I love my mug. It’s the best mug I found on the market. The only thing is, be careful, as it can leak!

I had placed my mug in the gym bag and something inside must have press the “ON” button, and my gym clothes got wet.

However after that mistake of mine done once, now I try to avoid placing the mug near something that might trigger the button and leak inside the bag.

January 21, 2013 at 11:30 pm

I am a coffee addict. I drink it from morning until night in my Contigo cup. I didn’t realize how gross it was getting until one day I sucked back a large chunk. I thought that I was cleaning it quite diligently after that with hot water, high pressure and overnight soaking a couple of times per week. The coffee tasted fine. Last night, I dropped the cup and broke the plastic lid. I don’t think that I’ve been that grossed out for a long time. There was brown sludge everywhere. Visually, I would have to say it looked like it was covered in feces. Maybe it’s time to hear about these cups on the six o’clock news.

March 17, 2013 at 12:07 pm

I have been using these cups for years and absolutely love them. I try to rinse it out as soon as I finish my coffee. When I put the lids in the dish washer, I hold the button down and shove it over the top of one of the retaining dividers – this keeps the drinking area open. I have never experienced the “gross factor.” A couple times a year, I soak them in soapy bleach water. I use a picker from a nut cracker set to very carefully pull the sealing ring out (it is not easy to get it back in) and the picker can also reach down into the tight spots to loosen any gunk.

July 8, 2013 at 7:48 pm

We have been using the Contigo mugs for a couple of years now and love them. I have tried all the cleaning methods suggested here as well. I would like to suggest that everyone follow the recipe for the vinegar and baking soda method, as I used about 1/2 cup of vinegar with water and baking soda and the solution blew the lid off the cup. It also fired the metal cup into my sink with such force that it dented the cup. I find that the WaterPik method is best so far, but I am definitely going to try the air compressor!

July 23, 2013 at 2:37 am

I have been using my Contigo for the last eight months and washing it in the dish washer every time. I noticed a little gunk build up from the milk so I got a cotton swab out to clean that and the rest is frightening! A little piece of black gunk came out so I started banging it on the counter and more and more came out. So I soaked it in boiling water and then banged it on the counter and I swear the amount of grossness that came out was not only overwhelming, it was disgusting. I couldn’t believe I was drinking out of it with that gross stuff in the lid! I’m almost scared to drink out of it again because more and more of that stuff keeps coming out. It’s like the clowns in the car; I have no idea where it’s all coming from!

September 5, 2013 at 2:19 pm

I also tried all off the suggestions and have found the cotton swab suggestion the best.

FYI: They now make an “Easy-Clean” version in which the crossbeam on the inside of the lid pulls away. Found it on Amazon.

November 26, 2013 at 7:56 pm

I just emailed them today and the answer pretty much was, “Wash it often and perhaps buy some of our brushes or you can save 20%, we have a sale on right now. Sorry, gunk is not covered under the warranty.”

I cleaned our two out over the last few days; absolutely disgusting!

December 11, 2013 at 3:30 pm

The easiest and most efficient way to clean a Contigo mug: Heat a ceramic cup of water in the microwave for 2 minutes or 2 minutes and 30 seconds. Place a single drop of dish soap in the lid. Remove the ceramic cup from the microwave, and pour the water into your Contigo mug. Shake vigorously, holding the mug up right for a few seconds. This will build up pressure in the mug. Aim the mug into the sink, then press the button until all water is gone. Everything that was trapped will be removed.

February 22, 2014 at 5:05 pm

Out of all the suggestions, the water pik worked like a charm. I had to do it twice to get all of it out, but I couldn’t believe how much goop ended up coming out. I think I’ll be washing it at least once or twice.

Another benefit is that now I have to keep my water pik out so I’ll be using it more often.

April 18, 2014 at 3:38 pm

Harv & JDub have it right! I use the same method to clean ALL my travel mugs EVERY time (as a prep BEFORE putting the LIDS only in the dishwasher, to ensure they are disinfected by the ultra-hot water and heated drying) make sure to store them with the lids flipped up, and I have NEVER had that gunk build-up problem. Maybe I’m OCD, but considering all the hidden spots, I couldn’t bear the thought of drinking out of them without knowing they were thoroughly cleaned, and my hubby is allergic to mold, so this was a no-brainer. I was shocked by the number of complaints on Amazon about how they “can’t be cleaned” thoroughly…however, for those who would like procedure (also detailed above by the previously mentioned posters): If the liquid is getting into those parts, then logic says use the same principles behind drinking from the bottles to get to those parts – just with hot, soapy water…and that same thing that causes the liquid to “spit” at you…the build-up of pressure…can help you to clean if you SHAKE the bottle (creating more suds, getting into those parts in the process), and then using that high pressure to FORCE the bacteria and gunk that may have built up OUT of the drinking spout (which helps clean that in the process); if you have a tiny bottle brush, a bristle brush with longer sets of bristles, or even just a q-tip, you can stick that through the drinking spout to clean out the gunk build-up left from drinking (well-known by tea and coffee drinkers). Also, the longer you soak the lids in hot water, the looser the gunk and particles will be…problem solved!

May 12, 2014 at 2:56 pm

Love my Contigo travel mugs! I bought tiny tattoo machine nozzle cleaning brushes from Ebay to clean mine. The brushes are pretty stiff and don’t fall apart like a q-tip. They can also be bent, which helps to get into the tight spots of the mug lids. That black rubbery gunk that comes out is nasty!

May 12, 2014 at 8:48 pm

I just cleaned my Contigo cup. I love it and use it everyday…I clean mine with bleach; let it soak, then one hour later, rinse it very well. BLEACH EATS AWAY THE MOLD.

August 10, 2017 at 8:34 pm

Bleach will also eat at the metal of the cup. You can do that if you don’t leave the bleach very long.

January 12, 2019 at 12:37 am

We have several Contigo. Love them; spill proof, rubber grip. Solid. But for cleanliness and durability, nothing beats Yeti. The basic lid has just a rubber seal to pop off and wash and the new mag lid opening is magnetic and comes off easily for cleaning. Takes me 2-minutes to clean.

June 30, 2014 at 4:00 pm

Can I put the Contigo water bottles in the dishwasher? Thanks.

July 1, 2014 at 8:34 pm

Michael, The plastic Contigo cups are labeled as “Top Rack Dishwasher Safe” if they can be washed in the dishwasher. However, the Contigo water bottles in particular have a warning that they should not be used for hot liquids, which probably means they are not dishwasher safe. As a rule of caution, only wash your Contigo cup in the dishwasher if it is labeled as dishwasher safe. However, all of the lids can be washed on the top rack of the dishwasher. Source: Contigo – General Cleaning Instructions

January 4, 2018 at 2:23 pm

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October 16, 2015 at 1:39 pm

I have these too; I drink tea with milk. I have used white vinegar and baking soda and this helps, but it takes work and patience. I let it bubble for 10 minutes, then do again and again. I also use Q-tips and have boiled the lid on the stove. You can also put salt in the lid with water. I also use the dishwasher. I love the cup, but not the lid.

November 2, 2015 at 11:20 am

I used a water pic on mine last night and so much gunk came out of it, I nearly threw it away then. I only THOUGHT I was cleaning it good before with my pipe cleaner and dishwasher. I went through 5 cycles, high power and super hot water before the chunks stopped coming out… and no kidding, it really didn’t look all that dirty when I started. It’s what you CAN’T see that’s scary gross. Great ideas on the baking soda and boiling, but if you have a Waterpik, I’d definitely follow those routines with a couple rounds of power blasted water to get it all out.

November 20, 2015 at 9:10 am

Will soaking the lid in water with bleach damage the inner parts?

December 22, 2015 at 9:28 am

I use a washed mascara brush to clean out my husband’s mug; it is the perfect size to reach all the tiny spaces. I came to this site because I thought it was his powdered creamer causing the problem, but I see that it happens with just coffee too.

January 30, 2017 at 4:45 am

The best method to clean the lid is to use a Waterpik Flosser. The hot water and high pressure of the water eventually got all the gunk out after about 30 minutes of washing. I must have gotten 2 or 3 tablespoons of gunk out of the lid (gross). This worked much better than picks and brushes.

May 8, 2017 at 9:53 pm

I pour peroxide in the lid & watch the foam come up with the coffee gunk that was left behind after the soak in hot soapy water. I came here looking for help.

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Are Contigo Water Bottles Dishwasher Safe? Here’s What You Need to Know

Contigo water bottles have gained popularity in recent years due to their convenient designs and leak-proof features. However, one common question that arises among users is whether these bottles are dishwasher safe. To ensure that your Contigo water bottle remains in good condition, it is crucial to understand the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding its cleaning method. In this article, we will delve into the topic of Contigo water bottle dishwasher safety and share useful information that will help you keep your bottle clean and functioning optimally.

Table of Contents

Contigo Water Bottles: An Overview

Contigo is a well-known brand that specializes in producing high-quality and innovative drinkware. Their products range from water bottles to travel mugs, all designed to offer convenience and durability to users. Contigo water bottles are particularly sought-after for their spill and leak-proof features, making them a popular choice for individuals on the go or those leading an active lifestyle.

These bottles are made from various materials, including BPA-free plastic and stainless steel, to cater to different preferences and needs. Most Contigo water bottles come with a silicone seal, which provides an airtight lock to prevent leaks and spills. The design often includes a special spout or straw mechanism for easy drinking, ensuring that liquid flows smoothly without any unwanted drips.

Understanding Dishwasher Safety

Dishwashers have become a common appliance in many households, offering convenience and efficiency in cleaning dishes, utensils, and other kitchen items. However, not all items are suitable for dishwasher cleaning due to various reasons such as material composition, vulnerable parts, or potential damage that can occur during the washing process.

When it comes to Contigo water bottles, the manufacturer provides specific guidelines regarding dishwasher safety. It is important to note that not all Contigo water bottles are deemed safe for dishwasher use, as the materials and intricate mechanisms can be compromised by the dishwasher’s high heat or intense water pressure.

Checking the Manufacturer’s Guidelines

To determine if your Contigo water bottle is dishwasher safe, it is essential to refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines. These guidelines can usually be found on the packaging of the bottle or in the user manual. If you no longer have access to these resources, you can visit the Contigo website or contact their customer service for assistance.

Factors Affecting Dishwasher Safety

Several factors can influence whether a Contigo water bottle is safe to clean in the dishwasher. These factors include the material of the bottle, the lid or cap design, and any additional features such as straws or special mechanisms.

1. Material Composition

Contigo water bottles are available in different materials, including plastic and stainless steel. While some plastic bottles may be dishwasher-safe, others are not. It is important to verify the material composition of your specific Contigo water bottle to determine its dishwasher safety.

Stainless steel Contigo water bottles, on the other hand, are generally not recommended for dishwasher cleaning as the high heat and strong water pressure can damage the exterior coating or insulation. It is advisable to hand wash stainless steel bottles to preserve their appearance and functionality.

2. Lid or Cap Design

The lid or cap of a Contigo water bottle often includes various components, such as a silicone gasket, straw, or spout mechanism. These components may not be suitable for dishwasher cleaning as they can deteriorate or become misshapen when exposed to high heat or intense water pressure. It is best to hand wash these parts to maintain their effectiveness and prolong their lifespan.

3. Additional Features

Some Contigo water bottles come with additional features like removable straws or special mechanisms that make drinking easier. These components often require careful attention during cleaning to ensure their longevity and functionality. Dishwashers may not provide the gentle cleaning required for these intricate parts, making hand washing the preferred method.

How to Properly Clean Your Contigo Water Bottle

While not all Contigo water bottles are dishwasher safe, that doesn’t mean you can’t keep them clean and hygienic. Following some simple cleaning steps can help you maintain your Contigo water bottle effectively.

1. Disassemble and Rinse

Begin by disassembling your Contigo water bottle. Separate the lid or cap from the main body and remove any additional components such as straws or spouts. Rinse each part thoroughly with warm water to remove any residue or buildup.

2. Hand Wash with Mild Soap

Fill a basin or sink with warm water and add a small amount of mild dish soap. Use a soft sponge or brush to gently scrub the inside and outside of the bottle and its components. Pay special attention to any hard-to-reach areas and ensure that all surfaces are properly cleaned.

3. Rinse Thoroughly

Once you have finished washing your Contigo water bottle, rinse it thoroughly under warm running water. Be sure to remove all traces of soap to prevent any unpleasant flavors from transferring to your beverages. Also, take the time to rinse the components individually to achieve a comprehensive clean.

4. Allow to Air Dry

After rinsing, shake out any excess water from the bottle and its parts. Place them on a clean dish rack or towel and allow them to air dry completely before reassembling. Avoid drying the bottle with a cloth or paper towel as it may leave lint or particles behind.

Contigo water bottles offer practical and spill-proof options for individuals seeking a reliable hydration solution. However, not all Contigo water bottles are dishwasher safe, and it is crucial to check the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding the cleaning method. Understanding the factors that affect dishwasher safety, such as material composition, lid design, and additional features, is essential for maintaining the longevity and functionality of your Contigo water bottle. By following the recommended hand washing steps, you can ensure that your Contigo water bottle remains clean, hygienic, and ready for your everyday adventures.

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Are Contigo Water Bottles Dishwasher Safe?

Using time-saving appliances is essential. So, let’s study to tell it.

Are Thermos Cups Dishwasher Safe?

How many coffee mugs and thermos cups do you have? If there are only 2 or 3, washing them by hand is easy. They last for decades, being your life-long companions. Having got dozens of vacuum flasks to test and use, I wash them every day. So, I have to do it fast and efficiently.

First of all, let’s consider the materials. Which vessels are dishwasher-safe? They are to stand prolonged exposure to high temperatures, effective detergents, and water . The list of materials that are safe to use in a dishwasher is not long. It includes:

• Stainless steel.
• Some types of plastic.

Are you selecting the best-insulated coffee mug? Buy it as a perfect Christmas gift for your coworkers or just to use every day. Meanwhile, it’s made of rust-resistant stainless steel. A metallurgical engineer from the University of Utah explains its properties. It resists corrosion due to high content of chromium and nickel. Reacting with oxygen and water, these elements form thin protective layers.

Here can see still more information about best insulated coffee mug!

Stainless Steel vs. Plastic Water Bottles

The first vacuum flasks were made of glass. However, this material is fragile, 80% recyclable. Nowadays, stainless steel is a common material for production of travel mugs.

It’s a preferable choice , as this metal is:

• easy-to-clean;
• temperature-resistant.

Is your best-insulated cup for cold drinks made of stainless steel? It contains some plastic parts. Lids handle, and cups are usually made of HDPE or LDPE plastics. The FDA approves them for food contact . So, let’s check basic properties of these materials.

Here can see still more information about best insulated cup for cold drinks!

Types of Plastic Used in Food Packaging

I guess, best water bottles for travel are made of stiff, UV-resistant HDPE plastics. They are lightweight, easy to carry, resistant to vibrations and shock. Reinforced plastic is durable, strong and elastic.

Are Contigo Plastic Water Bottles Dishwasher Safe?

Contigo is a famous American brand. It was introduced to the US market in 2004. Since 2009, the products are available in Africa, Middle-East and Europe. Nowadays, the leading company offers you a wide range of colors, sizes, and designs. Contigo water bottles are:

• Leak-proof.
• Eco-friendly.
• Easy-to-clean.

Some of them, like a sports water bottle with straw, are dishwasher-safe. You can put them in the top rack of your appliance. However, Contigo experts still recommend to wash them by hand. Use mild detergents and warm water.

These water bottles that are their plastic bodies and lids are quite durable and strong. You don’t have to replace the water bottle with time to drink. Each of them comes with lifetime guarantees. Unique Autoseal technology is designed to enable one-handed drinking. Firstly, just push the button to sip your beverage. After that, release it, and the spout seals automatically. This way, your bottle content is protected against germs and dirt.

Can You Put a Stainless Steel Water Bottle in the Dishwasher?

In terms of temperature resistance, stainless steel is beneficial. This material is used for vacuum insulation products. Its thermal conductivity is low in comparison with other widely-used metals. Additionally, it withstands much higher temperatures than any type of plastic.

Does it matter? The maximum water temperature in the popular dishwashers is 140 degrees. Top-quality plastic products withstand it. Harsh detergents are to be checked especially. Together with high temperatures, they might degrade plastic or damage the metal surface.

I don’t recommend you to put your thermos cups and vacuum flasks through the dishwasher. It may:

• Discolor matte powder finish.
• Impair insulation properties of the flask.
• Be not efficient to remove coffee or tea stains.

Do you remember how does a vacuum flask work ? It consists of multiple layers and 2 walls. A vacuum is inside. Above all, innovative insulation technologies (like Thermos and Thermalock) are beneficial. Firstly, they keep beverages cold for 18-24 hours . Secondly, tea or coffee remains hot for 10-18 hours . And to clarify, any leading manufacturer won’t recommend dishwashing insulated bottles.

How Do You Clean a Contigo Water Bottle?

• dishwashing soap;
• a bottle brush;
• warm tap water;
• white vinegar or baking soda.

Initially, fill the bottle with water with a few drops of soap or a mild detergent. Further, shake the bottle for several seconds. And most importantly, wash inner surface with a sponge rinse the bottle and let it dry. If you use the water bottle for cold beverages and wash it every day, that’s enough.

Sanitizing the Bottles

How do you keep mold out of water bottles? If your kids go to school, they might drop the bottle somewhere and find it in several months. Don’t let them drink out of it! There are too many bacteria and fungi spores .

Don’t you want to recycle the bottle and buy a new one? Try to sanitize it. Quite naturally, I won’t recommend you to use chlorine bleach. This solution is highly toxic. Vinegar or baking soda are suitable. Use these ingredients separately or together. They kill germs and help you to remove stains.

However, this mixture is highly reactive. Don’t put the lid on during the fizzing process! Rub the surface and rinse the bottle thoroughly. It’s possible also to use salt and ice, shake the bottle and rinse it. Scrubbing the surface with a brush is necessary when the mug or flask is heavily stained.

How to clean coffee cup lid? These parts are made of sturdy plastic. They are commonly dishwasher-safe. Otherwise, rinse the lid with soap and water at once after use. Wipe it with a sponge. Just pay attention to the button, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Press and hold it, while rinsing the lid.

General Impression

So, plastic Contigo water bottles are dishwasher-safe. Insulated ones are not. It’s strange, taking into account properties of stainless steel and plastic. Anyway, I recommend you to wash all of them by hand. It lets you prolong life of your favorite vessels. Additionally, you remove all stains. Your bottles are completely clean and safe to drink out of them. So, your kids are healthy and hydrated.

Beatrice Rogers

Hello, my name is Beatrice. I’m from Miami, FL. Are you looking for the best vacuum flask, coffee mug or thermos? Do you prefer healthy food? This website is what you need. Get some scientifically grounded tips and enjoy your time outdoors!

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Can You Put Starbucks Cups in The Dishwasher?

Are you tired of hand washing your Starbucks cups every time you use them? Do you want to know if you can put your Starbucks cups in the dishwasher without damaging them? Well, you’ve come to the right place!

Starbucks cups come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, including plastic cups, cold cups, ceramic mugs, glass mugs, stainless steel tumblers, vacuum-sealed cups, and more.

Some cups are designed for hot drinks, such as hot coffee, peppermint mochas, and white hot chocolate, while others are meant for cold beverages, like iced coffee, iced tea, and cold tea.

Can you put Starbucks cups in the dishwasher?

The answer is, it depends on the cup.

In general, Starbucks plastic cups, cold beverage cups, and hot cups made of ceramic or glass can be put in the dishwasher. However, you need to make sure that they are placed on the top rack to avoid extreme heat, which could damage the cups or cause a chemical reaction.

For vacuum-sealed cups or stainless steel tumblers, it’s best to check the instructions that came with the cup or visit the Starbucks website.

Some of these cups have a plastic lining that could be damaged by high temperatures or the dishwasher cycle.

It’s important to note that placing cups with vacuum seals or double walls in the dishwasher can compromise the vacuum seal, causing it to lose its insulating properties. So, it’s best to avoid putting these cups in the dishwasher altogether.

Can Starbucks Studded Cups Go into The Dishwasher?

No, Starbucks studded cold cups cannot go into the dishwasher and the label on the bottom will tell you this. It can cause the cup to break, crack and ruin the lining of the cup due to the extreme heat.

How to Hand Wash Starbucks Cups

All you need is a soft non-abrasive sponge and warm soapy water. Simply wash and place upside down to drip dry. Plus, hand washing is a great way to ensure that your cups stay in good condition and last a long time.

If you’re concerned about the amount of disposable cups you use, you can make a difference by owning your reusable cold cup.

Starbucks offers a variety of reusable cups, some of which even come with a free cup of coffee! And, if you’re a regular Starbucks customer, using your own cup could even save you money in the long run.

How to Care for Starbucks Cups

Now, let’s talk about the best ways to care for your Starbucks cups, whether you’re washing them by hand or in the dishwasher.

First, avoid using high temperatures or extreme heat, as this could damage the cups or cause a chemical reaction. This means avoid pressing that “high heat” or “sanitize” button on your dishwasher.

Second, always make sure to use a safe level of detergent and avoid overloading the dishwasher.

And third, if you’re unsure whether a cup is dishwasher safe or not, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and hand wash it.

Pro tip: Most Starbucks cups have information on the bottom stating whether or not they are dishwasher safe or even if they are microwave safe. For the most part, you can assume that if a Starbucks cup can be put into the microwave, it can be put into the top-rack of a dishwasher.

Here’s an example of cups that are hand wash only and cannot be put into a dishwasher:

If you’re looking to purchase a new Starbucks cup, whether it be a ceramic coffee cup, a plastic mug, or a stainless steel tumbler, you can find them at your local store or on the Starbucks app.

Starbucks even offers a “drinkware” tab, where you can browse through their popular coffee cups and travel mugs. However, keep in mind that Starbucks cups come with a hefty price tag, so be prepared to pay a premium for the brand.

As an avid Starbucks cup collector, I can tell you that the best way to ensure your Starbucks cups stay in good condition is to hand wash them. It may take a bit longer, but it’s worth it in the long run.

No matter what kind of Starbucks cup you own, taking care of it properly will ensure that it lasts a long time and stays in good condition. So, whether you’re hand washing or using the dishwasher, make sure to follow the instructions and take care of your cup with the love and attention it deserves.

Seriously. Read it: Can You Put Starbucks Cups in The Dishwasher?

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Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug Review: The Best Insulated Travel Coffee Mug

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In my wider tested review of travel coffee mugs , I found the Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug to be the best insulated mug on the market today. Ahead, learn more about the features that made it stand above the rest.

When it comes to travel coffee mugs, aesthetics (and practicality) are subjective. Some prioritize compatibility with their car’s cupholders, while others seek spill-free options for their backpacks. For many, all-day insulation is paramount, while others simply aim to maintain their coffee’s temperature until reaching their destination. Regardless of preference, almost everyone would prefer a sleek and stylish take-anywhere travel coffee mug that matches their lifestyle. After rigorously testing 14 different travel mugs and tumblers over a span of 10 days, the Zojirushi Stainless Mug emerged as the standout for its exceptional insulation properties and overall quality.

The Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug emerged as the standout for its exceptional insulation properties ... [+] and overall quality.

Zojirushi’s travel mug lived up to the company’s reputation for high-quality appliances. It did not spill, slosh or leak a single drop of coffee into my bag and was lightweight and easy to drink from. But most impressively, it kept coffee hot (and iced coffee chilled) for many hours—far longer than I personally even needed it to. Several of the other travel coffee mugs I tested were well insulated, including the Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug and Fellow Carter Cold Tumbler . But overall, the Zojirushi topped the list for impressive insulation.

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug

Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 20 ounces | Insulated: Yes | Dimensions: 2.9 x 3.1 x 9.3 inches | Weight: 10 ounces | Dishwasher-safe: No

• Keeping your beverages piping hot or refreshingly icy cold for extended periods
• Easy access with one hand for opening and drinking
• You prefer a travel mug with a traditional design 

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The 9 best shampoos for dry hair that hydrate and restore shine, zojirushi stainless steel mug features, first-rate insulation.

While reviewing travel coffee mugs, insulation (the ability to keep drinks piping hot or frosty cold) was one of the most important features I assessed. Of course, unless you’re going hiking or camping, most folks don’t usually need to maintain their coffee’s temperature for a whole day—or even half a day. But it’s nice to know that the coffee you pour into your mug in the morning will be just as comfortingly hot when you get to the office—and Zojirushi’s travel mug lives up to that promise.

The stainless steel mug is double-walled and vacuum-insulated, which slows down the transfer of heat or cold to keep the contents inside at a consistent temperature. In my testing, I poured coffee made with almost boiling water (207 degrees Fahrenheit) into the mug in the morning, then tested it with a digital thermometer six hours later. During that time, the coffee dropped a mere 37 degrees—far less than most of the other models I tried. Even after 12 hours, the coffee was still above 140 degrees Fahrenheit, which is generally considered the upper end of the ideal coffee-drinking temperature range. Similarly, the Zojirushi mug kept iced coffee at a chilly 47 degrees for eight hours, giving it one of the best cold-retention scores of any model I tried. While most of the travel mugs I tested claimed to be well insulated, the Zojirushi truly delivered.

Absolutely, Positively Leak-Proof

There’s little worse on a day-to-day basis than opening your backpack or purse to discover your travel mug has leaked coffee inside. That’s why I was thrilled to find that the Zojirushi travel mug is completely leak-free. Its screw-top lid securely fastens into the base, creating an airtight seal that keeps the contents in place, even when shaken, jostled or held upside down. Additionally, the lid features a slider lock to prevent accidental openings. To truly put it to the test, I took the mug on an airplane flight and was delighted to find my backpack dry when we landed. While I wasn’t completely enamored with the Zojirushi’s tapered shape or flip-top lid, both of which felt more like drinking from a water bottle than a travel coffee mug, I’m willing to overlook this minor issue for the sake of enjoying hot or icy coffee for hours with no leaks.

Spacious But Lightweight

I tested Zojirushi’s 20-ounce travel mug, which proved more than capable of holding ample coffee, tea or water to satisfy my thirst and caffeine needs. (The mug also comes in a larger 24-ounce size, though I did not personally try it.) While many of the mugs I tested felt somewhat heavy in my hand, the Zojirushi’s ultralight stainless steel construction, weighing just 10 ounces, felt featherlight and effortless to hold, even when filled with coffee. Additionally, I appreciated the ability to hold and operate the travel mug with one hand, simply pressing a button to flip up the lid when ready to drink. When I’m rushing around multitasking (which is all too often), I value a travel mug that makes my coffee consumption absolutely seamless.

My Expertise

I have been a professional food writer for more than 15 years, and a dedicated coffee lover for even longer than that. My writing and recipes have appeared in publications including Food & Wine, Bon Appétit, the Washington Post and Food52, and I am also the author of seven cookbooks. When not writing specifically about food, I regularly review and test a wide array of kitchen appliances—like hand mixers , ice cream makers and loaf pans –for Forbes Vetted. To make sure I did not miss anything during my research, I reached out to two coffee industry experts: Stephanie Dana, from the Brooklyn-based roastery Parlor Coffee , and Namisha Parthasarathy, co-founder of the coffee subscription service Aramse , provided their valuable knowledge and perspective.

How Does The Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug Compare?

Unsurprisingly, to anyone who already knows and loves Zojirushi’s kitchen appliances (like their exceptional rice cookers , for example), this stainless steel mug performed very favorably when compared to the other travel coffee mugs I tried. Like the MiiR Flip Traveler , it was lightweight and easy to hold (but easier than the MiiR to operate the lid). Similar to my overall favorite mug, the Klean Kanteen TKWide Insulated Coffee Tumbler , it kept liquid safely inside the bottle and was splash-resistant, even when I was drinking from it. But on the insulation front, it bested all of the other travel coffee mugs at keeping drinks hot and cold for the longest. Several of the travel coffee mugs I tried out were unpleasantly wide or had a finish that felt slippery and insecure in my hand. But the Zojirushi mug was slim and easy to hold.

How I Tested The Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug

I put 14 different travel coffee mugs and tumblers to the test over the course of 10 days in search of the very best, and I was happily surprised to see how strong and diverse the category is. There are travel mugs for your morning brew, ones designed specifically for iced coffee and even travel mugs that let you take an afternoon cappuccino on the road with you. But while there isn’t a single set of criteria that applies to every travel coffee mug, I kept the following things in mind while determining the best.

The most important criteria, to me, were how each travel coffee mug or tumbler felt in my hand, and how pleasant they were to drink from. This criterion is subjective, of course, and will be different for everyone. But I looked for coffee mugs that were slim and as simple to hold with one hand as with two. I also noted whether the mugs felt slippery or secure. On the drinking front, I gave top marks to the coffee mugs with spouts or tops that provided smooth, splash-free streams of liquid or, in the case of iced coffee tumblers, that had sturdy, easy flowing straws.

Insulation was also an important factor in my testing process, though not every travel mug that made my best-of list even promised great insulation. In the case of the glass KeepCup Brew Cork Reusable Coffee Cup , the focus was less on insulation and more on providing a stylish, functional and sustainable alternative to a disposable paper cup. But for the mugs and tumblers that did promise insulation, I filled them with nearly boiling hot coffee (and iced cold brew, in the case of my cold insulation tests) and tested the liquid’s temperature several times throughout the day with a digital thermometer.

Ease of cleaning was a third primary category for my testing. The majority of the travel mugs and tumblers on the market today are made from stainless steel (sometimes coated with ceramic) or glass rather than plastic, which means they all do a pretty good job of washing clean with soap and water. But to test them, I poured in coffee and let them sit for many hours before attempting to wash them—either by hand or, when applicable, in the dishwasher. After cleaning, I gave the mugs and tumblers a little sniff to see if any lingering stale coffee aroma was left behind.

Should I Buy A Travel Coffee Mug?

Despite being a product tester and reviewer for Forbes Vetted, you will not often find me telling someone they should definitely buy any particular product. So much depends on a person’s individual lifestyle, cooking style or daily habits. But I feel fairly comfortable recommending that most people should own at least one travel coffee mug, if not two. Whether you are a daily coffee consumer or you have a fondness for herbal tea, a good travel mug lets you integrate your beverage of choice into your on-the-go life. There are mugs, like the Zojirushi Stainless Mug , that keep drinks hot and cold for many hours. There are travel mugs, like the Yeti Rambler Stackable Cup , that safely and stylishly cradle a cappuccino or other espresso drink. And there are tumblers, like the Fellow Carter Cold Tumbler , that have a straw, making them the perfect vessel for iced tea and other frosty drinks. Whatever your coffee consumption style, there is likely a travel mug right for you.

What Is The Ideal Temperature For Hot Coffee?

Every person has their own preferences when it comes to coffee. My husband, for example, will only drink his coffee hot to the point of scalding. I, on the other hand, am perfectly fine with a warm cup of coffee and often prefer to drink it iced. According to a study conducted with volunteers by the University of Texas at Tyler, the temperature sweet spot for hot coffee drinking is 136 degrees Fahrenheit, though the ideal range goes from approximately 120 to 140 degrees. Many travel coffee mugs are insulated to help keep the hot coffee inside hot for an extended period of time, but not all insulated cups work as well as others. To keep your coffee piping hot, look for a travel coffee mug like the Zojirushi Stainless Mug that has superior double-walled, vacuum insulation.

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