How to Remove Stains from Ceramic and Glass Surfaces

Quick answer

Most ceramic and glass stains come off with a paste of baking soda and water for ceramics, or a vinegar soak for glass. For stubborn organic stains like tea or wine, apply the paste, let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then rinse. Never use abrasive scrubbers or harsh chemicals on glazed ceramic or hand-blown glass, as these can scratch or etch the surface permanently.

Stains on ceramic and glass are usually a sign of everyday use, not a defect. Tea, coffee, wine, and hard water leave behind mineral or tannin deposits that bond to the surface. The key is matching the cleaning method to the material and the stain type, so you lift the stain without dulling the finish.

This guide separates symptoms, causes, and corrective actions for common stains. You will also find clear stopping points where a stain is better left alone or treated by a professional, especially for delicate or hand-blown pieces.

Identify the stain before you treat it

Not all stains are the same. Brown rings inside a mug are usually tannins from tea or coffee. White, chalky film on glass or ceramic is often hard water or mineral scale. Purple or red marks on glass point to wine or fruit juice. Knowing the cause tells you whether you need an acid (for minerals) or a mild abrasive (for organic residue).

Look at the surface too. Glazed ceramic and most glass are non-porous, so stains sit on top. Unglazed ceramic, matte finishes, and hand-blown glass may have tiny surface variations that trap residue. If you are unsure, test any method on the bottom or a hidden area first.

• Tannin stains: tea, coffee, red wine — brown, purple, or red rings.
• Mineral stains: hard water, limescale — white, cloudy film or spots.
• Organic film: grease or soap residue — dull, streaky appearance.

Gentle methods for ceramic stain removal

For glazed ceramic, start with a paste of baking soda and water. Mix three parts baking soda to one part water, apply to the stain, and let it sit for 10–15 minutes. Rub gently with a soft cloth or sponge, then rinse. This lifts most tea and coffee stains without scratching. For stubborn stains, add a few drops of dish soap to the paste.

If the stain persists, try a diluted white vinegar soak. Fill the item with one part vinegar to three parts warm water and let it stand for 30 minutes. Vinegar dissolves mineral deposits. Rinse thoroughly afterward. Avoid vinegar on unglazed or matte ceramic, as it can dull the surface over time.

• Never use steel wool or abrasive cleansers on glazed ceramic.
• Do not use vinegar on unglazed ceramic or stoneware.
• For hand-painted or gold-rimmed ceramics, skip acidic soaks and use only mild soap and water.

Gentle methods for glass stain removal

Glass responds well to vinegar soaks for hard water stains. Fill the glass with equal parts white vinegar and water, or submerge it in a bowl, and let it sit for 15–30 minutes. For light film, a vinegar-soaked cloth wiped over the surface is enough. Rinse with warm water and dry with a lint-free cloth to avoid water spots.

For wine or juice stains, a paste of baking soda and water works well. Apply it to the stain, let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse. For narrow-neck glassware, use a bottle brush with soft bristles. Never use abrasive pads on glass, as they can leave fine scratches that make future staining worse.

• Avoid sudden temperature changes — they can crack glass.
• Do not use vinegar on lead crystal or hand-blown glass with metallic lusters.
• Dry immediately after rinsing to prevent new water spots.

When to stop and choose another option

If a stain does not lift after two gentle attempts, stop. Repeated scrubbing or stronger chemicals can etch glass or wear away ceramic glaze. For antique, hand-painted, or gold-decorated pieces, do not attempt stain removal yourself. Consult a professional restorer.

For everyday FRAMA ceramics and glassware, prevention is simpler than removal. Rinse soon after use, avoid stacking wet items, and use a mild dish soap. If you have hard water, dry immediately with a soft cloth. These habits keep stains from setting in the first place.

• Stop if the surface feels rough or dull after cleaning.
• Stop if the stain is under the glaze — it cannot be removed safely.
• For valuable or sentimental pieces, always choose professional cleaning.

Stain diagnosis and action guide

• Brown ring inside a mug or cup: Tannin stain from tea or coffee. Make a paste of baking soda and water, apply, wait 10–15 minutes, then rub gently with a soft sponge and rinse. If the ring remains after two attempts, stop. The stain may be etched into the glaze.
• White cloudy film on glass or ceramic: Hard water or mineral scale. Soak in equal parts white vinegar and water for 15–30 minutes, then rinse and dry immediately. Do not use vinegar on unglazed ceramic or hand-blown glass with metallic finishes.
• Purple or red mark on glass: Wine or fruit juice stain. Apply a baking soda paste, let sit for 10 minutes, then rinse with warm water and dry with a lint-free cloth. If the stain does not lift, do not scrub. Consult a professional for valuable glassware.

FRAMA pieces and care notes

• Hand Wash | Apothecary | 375 mL: The Apothecary Hand Wash is a mild, scented cleansing gel containing natural and organic ingredients, with aromatic notes of sandalwood, cedar, and ylang ylang. Its gentle formula is suitable for washing hands, but it is not a cleaner for ceramic or glass surfaces. Use dedicated mild dish soap for your tableware.
• Shelf Library Double Section | Stainless Steel | H108.4 / W80: Rail-mounted shelving systems were initially popularized by Scandinavian cabinet makers in the early 1930s, and Kim Richardt’s Shelf Library System for FRAMA is a refined interpretation of this tradition. Storing ceramics and glass on open shelves keeps them visible and encourages prompt cleaning, which prevents stains from setting.

Most ceramic and glass stains come out with gentle, common ingredients. Match the method to the stain type, test on a hidden area, and know when to stop. For everyday pieces, consistent rinsing and drying will keep them clear and stain-free.