Last Updated on August 15, 2023 by River Tree Farms
A dishwasher is a very useful appliance that can save time in the kitchen. However, it comes with a rule – only dishwasher-safe dishes can go in. This brings us to the question, “Are Starbucks cups dishwasher safe?”
There’s no straight answer to this question. This is because Starbucks offers a wide range of cups, some of which are not safe for the dishwasher. The dishwasher safety of a Starbucks cup depends on its material.
Most Starbucks reusable cups are dishwasher safe, while single-use ones are not. To give you a more satisfying answer, we will explore different types of Starbucks cups. We will also determine whether they are dishwasher-safe or not. Stick around.
Types Of Starbucks Cups:
- Starbucks ceramic cups – In general, all ceramics are safe for the dishwasher. They do not react with the dishwasher detergent. Also, high temperatures do not affect them. So, Starbucks ceramic cups are dishwasher safe.
- Starbucks glass mugs – Glass can either be safe for the dishwasher or not. It all depends on the temperature at which your dishwasher is operating. Low heat is safe for Starbucks glass mugs. However, you shouldn’t be shocked if you see the glass mugs crack one after the other at high temperatures.
- Starbucks reusable cups – These cups are generally made of plastic. Even so, it’s not ordinary plastic that can melt at a few degrees Fahrenheit. Starbucks reusable cups are made of lightweight polypropylene. This is a rare yet safe type of plastic that is FDA-approved. Polypropylene is resistant to chemicals and heat. So you can wash it in your dishwasher. Keep the cups on the top rack of the dishwasher, though.
- Starbucks cold cups – As the name implies, Starbucks cold cups keep your beverage cool and iced. This is particularly essential during summer when temperatures are high. You can wash these cups on the top rack of your dishwasher.
- Starbucks tumblers – These tumblers come in different materials. While most are safe for the dishwasher, avoid washing the lids in the dishwasher. This is because some of the lids are plastic. The lids also have rubber gaskets to keep the tumbler airtight, so don’t place them in the dishwasher.
Are All Starbucks Cups Dishwasher Safe?
The short answer is no. As seen above, Starbucks offers several types of cups, some of which are not dishwasher safe. The dishwasher safety of a Starbucks cup depends on its material.
For instance, while a ceramic cup is dishwasher safe, a plastic one may not be safe for the dishwasher. It will likely suffer damage if you place it in the washing appliance. If a cup is not safe for the dishwasher, you should hand-wash it to enhance its safety and longevity.
Are Starbucks Tumblers Dishwasher Safe?
You know that Starbucks coffee tumblers are available in various materials and designs. There’s no straight answer to whether they are safe for the dishwasher or not. This is because safety depends on factors such as dishwasher temperature and the material used to make the tumbler.
Most Starbucks tumblers are plastic. The good news is that the plastic is BPA-free. This means that you can place it in the dishwasher without worrying about potential damage. The bad news is that the lids are not dishwasher safe since they have a rubber gasket. Thus, you should hand-wash them.
Ceramic tumblers also exist, and they are dishwasher-safe. However, if there’s any with a plastic lid, don’t put it in the dishwasher. Starbucks also offers stainless steel tumblers, which are safe for the dishwasher. You only need to be careful when loading the dishwasher. Don’t place the cups near sharp objects, such as cutlery, as they may scratch the coating.
Remember to use mild detergents. Harsh ones can damage even the supposedly dishwasher-safe materials such as stainless steel. Dishwasher manufacturers usually recommend the type of dishwasher detergent suitable for their appliance.
Read Also: How To Order Decaf Coffee At Starbucks
Are Starbucks Cold Cups Dishwasher Safe?
Starbucks cold cups are generally safe for the dishwasher. Starbucks only recommends that you wash them on the top rack of your dishwasher. They are made of polyethylene terephthalate. This material is a hard yet clear plastic that can withstand high temperatures. It is also recyclable.
Starbucks cold cups have two layers to enhance insulation. This helps prevent heat exchange between your beverage and the outside environment. It, in turn, keeps the drink cool. Starbucks cold cups are good at keeping coffee and other Starbucks beverages cool. Keeping this in mind, never put hot drinks in them.
Read Also: Can You Put Hot Coffee In A Plastic Solo Cup?
Are Starbucks Reusable Cups Dishwasher Safe?
Starbucks reusable cups come in different designs, sizes, and materials. Some of them are safe for the dishwasher, while others are not. For instance, ceramic cups are reusable and dishwasher-safe. But, while Starbucks glass mugs are reusable, they may not be entirely dishwasher-safe. This is especially the case if you’re washing at high temperatures.
Also, some plastics are reusable and safe for the dishwasher, while others are not. The rule of thumb is to determine the dishwasher safety of the material you are using.
Are Starbucks Plastic Cups Dishwasher Safe?
Plastic is generally unsafe for the dishwasher. Still, Starbucks plastic is high-quality, BPA-free, hard, and FDA-approved. Many controversies surround this question. However, Starbucks plastic cups are not entirely unsafe for the dishwasher safe.
All you need to do is place them on the top rack of the dishwasher and keep the heat low. This is especially for hard plastics such as polyethylene terephthalate.
The bad news is that you may start noticing some warping and peeling of the coatings over time. Thus, the safest way to wash Starbucks plastic cups is by hand. This is especially necessary if the cups have a rubber gasket on the lid.
Is Starbucks Color Changing Cups Dishwasher Safe?
Starbucks color-changing cups add some oomph to your coffee experience. As such, you’d likely want to protect the colors at all costs. You have the option to wash color-changing cups on the top rack of the dishwasher.
Also, keep temperatures low and detergent mild to protect the colors.
However, handwashing would be the most recommendable cleaning method. You don’t want to take chances with the beautiful colors.
How to Hand-Wash Starbucks Cups?
For every Starbucks cup that is not safe for the dishwasher, hand-wash it for safety purposes. To do this, half-fill your sink with warm water and mix it with mild detergent.
Use a non-abrasive material to clean the cups in the foamy water. Ensure you’re gentle yet thorough. Once you’re done, rinse the cups and air dry them on the utensils rack.
Conclusion
“Are Starbucks cups dishwasher safe?” This is a common question that Starbucks’ loyal customers ask. It all depends on the type of Starbucks cup you have at hand. Some may be safe for the dishwasher, while others may not. The material of the cup largely determines its dishwasher safety.
Dishwasher-safe cups include Starbucks ceramic cups and stainless-steel tumblers. Others are Starbucks cold cups and Starbucks reusable cups. Some cups may only be safe for the dishwasher under certain conditions.
For instance, Starbucks color-changing cups are only safe when placed on the top rack of the dishwasher. Also, Starbucks glass mugs are only safe for the dishwasher at low temperatures.