Epoxy projects exist in all shapes and sizes, from enormous wall art, to bar top and countertop fixtures, to tables and benches, and on down to small projects like resin coasters and jewelry.
Among the smaller epoxy projects are ever popular concepts like epoxy tumblers and resin cups. Drinkware projects such as these elegantly combine form and function to create reusable insulating drinking cups with a customizable appearance.
But one thing that may not be obvious after you finish your resin cup project is how to maintain it.
In this article, we'll explain how to wash epoxy tumblers, cups, and related items.
What Is an Epoxy Tumbler or Resin Cup?
An epoxy tumbler, which are sometimes called resin cups (though this encompasses more than that) is a form of drinkware that has been coated and decorated with epoxy resin. These cups are usually insulated to preserve the temperature of their contents for long periods of time.
What specifically makes an epoxy tumbler appealing for many crafters is its highly customizable nature; a coating of resin not only protects and enhances the cup itself but also serves as a medium for self-expression, through a wide array of artistic decorations. Artists and crafters can embed a variety of materials into the resin, such as glitter, colored inks, epoxy pigments, paints, pictures, and even small objects, to create unique, personalized designs.
The process involves preparing your tumbler, applying a layer of epoxy resin, and then adding the desired decorations before the resin fully cures. Once hardened, the epoxy provides a smooth, glasslike finish that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Want to make your own epoxy tumbler? Take a look at our in-depth beginner-friendly guide!
How to Wash Epoxy Tumblers, Cups, Etc.
Cleaning an epoxy tumbler is pretty straightforward, with just a few guidelines on what to do and what not to do to. We'll start with what you should not do.
Washing Epoxy Tumblers—What Not to Do
Washing epoxy tumblers is surprisingly easy, but you may still be tempted to use more powerful cleaning methods. The good news is that these aren't necessary, and very basic methods will be more than enough to clean and sanitize your tumbler.
That being said, here's what you should definitely not do when attempting to clean your epoxy tumblers or resin cups.
What Not to Do #1: Never Wash Resin Cups in a Dishwasher.
It is generally not recommended to wash an epoxy tumbler in a dishwasher. In fact—with rare exceptions—you should never wash your epoxy tumbler in a dishwasher.
Even though epoxy resin is highly durable and resistant to many forms of damage, it can be sensitive to the high temperatures and harsh detergents commonly used in dishwasher cycles. These conditions can potentially degrade the resin over time, leading to discoloration, cloudiness, or even structural weakening of the resin coating.
Additionally, the intense heat of a dishwasher can cause the epoxy to soften or warp, ruining the smooth, glossy finish that is characteristic of these tumblers.
Thus, to preserve the form and look of your epoxy tumbler, it's better to wash it by hand, as this ensures that the tumbler remains in good condition, maintaining its aesthetic appeal and structural integrity for longer use.
What Not to Do #2: Never Use Harsh Chemicals/Solvents.
For cured epoxy resin coatings, solvents can be used for cleaning or removing stubborn surface residues, as long as they aren't too harsh. Harsh solvents can potentially damage the resin's finish, leading to cloudiness or dullness. Instead, when cleaning an epoxy tumbler, it's safer to start with milder solvents like isopropyl alcohol and avoid stronger solvents like acetone.
Additionally, after using solvents, it's also good practice to wash the cleaned tumbler with soap and water to remove any residual solvent. Fortunately, solvents like these won't be necessary to clean your tumbler in most situations.
Washing Epoxy Tumblers—Best Methods
Next up are the two best methods are cleaning epoxy tumblers, cups, and more. These methods are both safe and simple, and can be accomplished with common household items.
How to Clean Method #1: Mild Soap and Warm Water
The first and most common method for cleaning epoxy tumblers is to use mild soap and warm water. This works for the epoxy exterior as well as the metal interior.
When using this method, we recommend an abrasive sponge or brush for scrubbing and applying pressure. Avoid strong, coarse cleaning tools like steel wool, as they can scratch the tumbler's exterior and interior, leaving behind unpleasant marks and giving bacteria a place to reside.
As for how to do this, you can either apply the soap to a wet sponge to clean it, or you can make a soapy water mix in a bowl of some sort. Afterward, use flowing water to rinse it off.
This method will be adequate nearly all of the time.
How to Clean Method #2: Soaking Your Tumbler in Soapy Water
Our second cleaning method involves soaking your tumbler in soapy water for several hours (often overnight). Epoxy's waterproof nature means it can rest in most liquids without any problems.
To accomplish this, simply make a solution of warm water and mild soap in a suitable basin or container, then place the tumbler in this solution and leave it there. This gives the soap time to permeate any residues and weaken the bond of oils, grease, etc.
Then, once some time has passed, you can simply wipe away the residue and rinse the tumbler off for a clean, fresh container.
Did you know: This method also works for resin molds?
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When it comes to epoxy resin, Primaloc Epoxy gets the job done. Our epoxy resin is premium-grade, with high performance in every category, resulting in a smooth, strong finish that's easy to clean.
Epoxy resin can be beautiful, strong, and long-lasting—which is why you shouldn't compromise on quality. With Primaloc Epoxy Resin, you get the ultimate finish in durability and visual appeal.
Protect your surfaces by giving them a rock-solid epoxy finish. Choose strong. Choose reliable. Choose Primaloc.