How to keep your milk jug looking brand new (Teflon care guide)

If you have invested in a high-end espresso setup, you know that your tools matter just as much as the machine itself. Let's look at one of those tools: the milk jug. We designed our milk jugs for precision, with internal measurement lines and contoured spouts that help you pour flawless latte art.

However, the exterior finish is made of Teflon. And this finish needs attentive care. While Teflon is incredibly smooth and satisfying to hold, it is a relatively soft material. Without the right care, your pristine jug could develop micro-scratches, scuffs, and peeling edges.

To keep your milk pitcher looking brand new and as scratch-free as possible, follow these essential care rules.

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1. Ditch the dishwasher (hand-wash only)

It's be incredibly tempting to toss your milk jug into the dishwasher at the end of a busy day. Resist the urge. Dishwashers are a hostile environment for Teflon coatings.

The combination of intense high heat, prolonged exposure to moisture, and aggressive, highly abrasive dishwasher detergents will rapidly degrade the bond between the Teflon coating and the stainless steel beneath it. Over time, dishwasher use will cause the matte finish to fade, become brittle, and eventually chip away. Always wash your pitcher by hand immediately after use.

2. Use non-abrasive detergents and sponges

When you wash your jug by hand, the tools you choose make all the difference.

The soap: Opt for a mild, liquid dish soap. Don't use harsh chemical cleaners, espresso machine backflush powders (like Cafiza) on the outside of the jug, or any detergents containing bleach or citrus extracts, as these can chemically wear down the soft Teflon layer.

The sponge: Never, under any circumstances, use the scratchy, abrasive green side of a kitchen sponge, steel wool, or scouring pads on the exterior. Use only a soft foam sponge, a microfiber cloth, or your bare hands to wipe away milk residue.

3. Dry with a soft towel

After your jug is clean, don't let it air dry. Mineral deposits from tap water can leave unsightly water spots that are difficult to remove without scrubbing. Instead, dry it immediately with a clean, plush microfiber towel or a soft cotton tea towel. Avoid rough paper towels, which can actually contain stiff wood fibers capable of leaving faint hairline scratches on soft finishes over time.

4. Store it upside down

Where and how you store your pitcher between espresso sessions plays a massive role in its longevity.

Pro Tip: Always store your milk jugs upside down.

Leaving the pitcher right-side up can easily scratch the under side against the countertop. Storing the jug upside down on a soft silicone tamping mat or a clean cloth protects the spout, prevents dust accumulation, and minimizes general wear and tear.

By treating your Teflon-coated milk jug with a little extra mindfulness, you ensure that it remains a stunning centerpiece on your coffee bar for years to come. Clean it gently, dry it softly, and store it safely!