Should You Store Mugs Face Up or Down? Experts Explain

You probably have some home habits you don’t think too much about, like whether you leave the shower curtain open or closed when you’re done showering or your method for loading silverware in the dishwasher. But of course, the internet is always ready to debate the best way to do things. The latest discourse is on whether to store your mugs face up or face down, so we tapped experts to see what they recommend.

“My mugs are in a large deep drawer and I put them upright, although then when I go to use one, I always check if anything creepy is hibernating in there! Curious to know what others do,” wrote @Three_Unicorns in r/australia. Reddit users on r/espresso also had a discussion on the topic.

Some people argue that storing mugs face up allows moisture to evaporate and reduces the amount of cabinet grime that touches the rim. Others say that storing them face down prevents dust from collecting inside the mugs. There’s also the question of which storage method makes the mugs easier to grab when you’re bleary-eyed in the morning.

Keep reading to find out what experts say about how your mugs should be stored at home.

Storing Mugs Upright…

The case for storing mugs upright is simple. When stored upside down, the mugs can trap heat and moisture, especially if you live in a humid environment or forget to fully dry the cups before storing them.

“Inside closed cupboards, right side up to allow for humidity to escape,” explains one user.

“I leave them upright. I’m scared of any moisture being trapped if I leave them upside down,” writes another.

Other users argue that facing cups upside down might be unsanitary depending on how often you clean your cabinets. “I very rarely properly wipe down the inside of my cupboards after every time I touch it and I don’t want my clean mugs coming in contact with it,” explains one user.

Storing Mugs Upside Down…

Storing mugs upside down can prevent dust from accumulating inside, especially if you don’t have closed cupboards. “On open shelving or on top of machine, upside down to avoid gathering of dust,” writes one user.

Others mention the pros of a heated cup when brewing coffee: “I store them upside down on my coffee machine. That way, the heated air from the machine gets trapped in the cup (warming them up just a little bit quicker).”

There’s also the question of what’s most secure, especially if you have kids who can be a bit clumsy when reaching for a glass.

“For cups and glasses where they’re narrower at the bottom, they’re more stable being stored upside down, and less prone to tipping over when you go rooting around for one,” explains another.

Is there a right answer?

The right answer depends on your kitchen storage situation. If you have open shelving, it might be best to store mugs facing down so dust doesn’t wind up inside your next cup of coffee.

Inside closed cabinets, it’s a different story. While there’s no 100% correct method to store your mugs either way, keeping them upright could help prevent moisture buildup, especially if you might not always pay attention to whether or not they’re completely dry, or if you’re using them all the time.