How to Clean and Store a Stainless Steel Tumbler
By Vera Bradley | Published: 2026-10-29
Category: How-to Guides
Keep your stainless steel tumbler tasting fresh and working longer with a simple daily rinse, a deeper weekly wash, and smart storage habits that protect the finish.
Quick answer
Rinse your tumbler with warm water after every use, wash it thoroughly with mild dish soap once a day, and give the lid and straw a deeper clean weekly. Store it with the lid off so air can circulate and odors don’t get trapped.
Why stainless steel needs a different routine
Stainless steel is durable, but it isn’t indestructible. Abrasive sponges and harsh cleaners can dull the finish, and trapped moisture inside a sealed tumbler encourages odors and mildew. The goal is to remove drink residue without scratching the interior or leaving soap behind.
If your tumbler has a patterned exterior, as many Vera Bradley tumblers do, treat the outside as gently as the inside. A soft cloth and mild soap preserve the print; a scouring pad can wear it away.
The straw and lid deserve extra attention
Straws and lids have narrow spaces where smoothies, coffee, or juice can collect. A small bottle brush or pipe cleaner reaches inside a straw, and a soft brush around the lid’s gasket removes film that a quick rinse misses.
Check the lid’s removable parts according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If a gasket isn’t removable, don’t pry it out; instead, soak the lid in warm soapy water and rinse thoroughly.
Step-by-step tumbler cleaning and storage
- Rinse immediately after each use: Empty leftover ice or liquid and rinse the tumbler, lid, and straw with warm water. This stops sticky residue from drying and makes the next wash easier. Don’t let coffee or sugary drinks sit overnight; the longer they stay, the more scrubbing they need.
- Wash daily with mild dish soap: Fill the tumbler with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Use a soft bottle brush or sponge to scrub the interior and a soft cloth for the exterior, then rinse until the water runs clear. Skip abrasive pads and bleach-based cleaners; they can scratch the steel or fade a patterned finish.
- Clean the lid and straw thoroughly: Disassemble the lid if possible. Scrub the straw inside and out with a straw brush, and wash the lid and gasket with soapy water. Rinse all parts well. If the gasket is not removable, soak the lid for a few minutes instead of forcing it out.
- Deep clean weekly or after strong flavors: For lingering odors or stains, soak the tumbler interior in a mixture of warm water and baking soda for 30 minutes, then wash and rinse as usual. Do not use this mixture on the exterior if your tumbler has a printed pattern unless the manufacturer approves it. Baking soda is a gentle option, but always check the care instructions for your specific tumbler first.
- Dry completely before storing: Leave the tumbler, lid, and straw in a well-ventilated spot until every part is fully dry. Store with the lid off or loosely placed on top so air can circulate. Storing a damp tumbler with the lid sealed can trap moisture and cause a musty smell.
Product facts
- Stainless Steel XL Tumbler w/Handle: Crafted from premium stainless steel and designed to keep drinks cold or hot for hours. That insulation works best when the lid seals properly, so clean the lid and gasket regularly and let them dry completely before storing.
Stainless Steel XL Tumbler w/Handle
