Stanley Settles the Debate: The Best Method for Cleaning Your Insulated Tumblers

Stanley tumblers are everywhere these days. These insulated cups, designed to keep hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold for hours, have become a favorite among students, athletes, teens, and busy adults. Celebrities like Jennifer Garner, Olivia Rodrigo, and Adele have all been spotted with a Stanley tumbler in hand.

Sales, particularly at Target, have skyrocketed lately, with new tumbler releases flying off the shelves. But what's really making waves is the growing concern among fans on TikTok about hidden mold and bacteria lurking inside the tumblers.

TikTok user Skylar Ray Rose went viral with a 'Stanley hack' video where she showed how she typically removes the lid and straw for cleaning. The surprise? She discovered additional detachable parts in the lid, which, when removed, revealed a buildup of black mold. 'This is so gross,' she remarked. And it certainly is!

What Are Those Black Spots in My Stanley?

Black mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp or humid environments. It can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, causing symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and more. Consider this a reminder to clean your cups—whether Stanley or not.

TikToker Nicole Kramer revealed the inside of her Stanley cup, showing the same concerning black spots. 'I’ve been drinking from it all weekend and even this morning during my workout,' she shared in the video. In the caption, she noted, 'I use my Stanley daily, and it’s easy to forget when you last cleaned it when it’s always in use.'

Both mold and bacteria thrive on damp surfaces, and those tiny dark spots are just the beginning of potential growth inside your tumbler. How can you keep your trusted cup free from this unwanted buildup?

How to Properly Clean Your Stanley Cup, According to the Experts

The 111-year-old Stanley brand is known for making durable cups that can endure heavy use, but as the company notes on its website, 'As awesome as our products are, they don’t clean themselves. Things can still get a little funky.' You can’t just leave your drink in the tumbler forever without giving it a clean.

Clean After Each Use with Gentle, Non-Abrasive Cleaners and Sponges

After finishing your drink, empty any remaining liquid and give your Stanley cup a thorough cleaning before using it again. The brand recommends cleaning your tumbler between uses with mild dish soap and a dish rag, soft sponge, or a small brush.

Always opt for products labeled 'non-abrasive' to preserve the integrity of your cup and its finish.

While the cups are dishwasher safe, the company suggests that hand washing is the best way to maintain the cup’s appearance and keep the paint or finish looking pristine.

Do Not Use Bleach

Avoid strong chemicals like bleach or chlorine, as they can damage the sealing components of your Stanley cup. This can cause leaks and compromise its ability to keep drinks hot.

Are Stanley Cups Dishwasher Safe?

To be sure, refer to the care instructions or base artwork for confirmation. If the tumbler is dishwasher safe, be sure to disassemble all parts for a thorough clean. This is where stubborn residue can hide!

Take apart the various components of your tumbler, including the pieces on the lid. Place all parts on the top rack of the dishwasher. If you notice any black residue in the cup, give it an extra scrub before placing it in the dishwasher for a deeper clean.

A Useful Stanley Cleaning Hack

Try a cleaning tip straight from the brand’s website to get your Stanley ready for another day of adventure. Use this mixture to shake inside your tumbler as part of your cleaning routine. Rinsing with vinegar helps remove dirt, stains, residue, and bacteria, while uncooked rice grains work to dislodge any leftover particles.

What You'll Need: