Mug Maintenance

Magic Mugs need special care to protect the ink.  Above is a scan of the care instructions usually included with a Magic Color (TM) Mug.  Magic Color is the trade name of one of the original thermochromic color changing ink by the original company, also using names "Disappearing Houze Magic Color (TM)" and "Color Changing Houze Magic Plus (TM)."

Though many of the mugs I've purchased, didn't come with the 'care instructions' above, I've come across enough of them to learn how to take care of my magic mugs.  I reprint the instructions here for your use, and so you can take care of any mugs you have.

1. Avoid temperatures exceeding 170 Deg. F.  Magic Color products for hot beverages may be used in microwave ovens, but they must be removed as soon as the thermochromatic change occurs, about 150-155 degrees.(Also see my rebuttal below.)
2. Avoid prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light including direct and reflected sunlight and some types of fluorescent lighting.  Gradual fading may result. 
3. Avoid harsh abrasives such as automatic dishwashing detergents. Do not place in an automatic dishwasher.  Hand washing is recommended. 
4. When not in use, it is a good idea to store your Magic Color Mug or tumbler in a low light area such as a cabinet or drawer. 

NOW FOR THE REBUTTAL:  I've never seen any Magic Mug do well in a microwave.  Once or twice may not make much difference but most begin to fade almost immediately. And by 'fade', I mean that the color changing ink will begin to turn light brown and not be opaque. (See photo below.) I have posted examples of this damage through my blog and will, of course, show more in the regular posts.  I collect these damaged mugs even though the color change no longer works because I feel that they still are an interesting mug but more because they are an example of what NOT to do. 

This mug shows microwave damage. Ink is no
longer opaque, and no longer turns even semi-clear.

If you must use a microwave to heat your drink, I recommend you use another (non-color changing) mug in the microwave. Heat the beverage in the standard mug to slightly hotter than you like.  Meanwhile, run hot tap water into the Magic Mug and let the  mug warm up.  (This heats the mug and will help to prevent cracks when your microwaved beverage is added later.)  When the beverage is ready and the magic mug is warmed, empty the hot water from the magic mug and immediately pour your hot beverage from the standard mug into the magic mug and enjoy.  This will protect your magic mug and allow it to fully change for a longer period.

Storage. When storing your vast collection of magic mugs, store them at room temp, and in an area where they will not experience extreme temperature changes.  Case in point, I have one magic mug which has had the magic ink flake off (in one piece) leaving me with not only a strange looking mug, but with a distaste for harsh temp changes...

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