Do your pieces look far from how they did when they were new? It might be time to give them some TLC! Cleaning your jewelry every now and then is well worth it—and it’s easier than most people think. Here, you’ll find the best tips for cleaning jewelry of all types from your collection.
Why clean your jewelry?
Everyday jewelry takes a beating—exposure to sweat, lotion, perfume, and even air pollution can cause them to appear dull or dirty. The good news is that cleaning them is relatively simple, and can restore their shine quickly.
How to clean your jewelry
Fortunately, you can often clean your jewelry using items you already have at home. Below are some easy and effective methods:
- Mild soap and water
- Mix a gentle dishwashing liquid with lukewarm water and soak your jewelry for 10–15 minutes.
- Gently scrub with a soft toothbrush, especially around engravings and intricate details.
- Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.
- Tip: Avoid hot water for gemstones like opals or pearls—it can damage them.
- Vinegar and baking soda—natural silver/gold cleaner
- For pure silver or gold pieces, mix two tablespoons of baking soda with half a cup of vinegar.
- Soak for at least 5 minutes, then gently scrub with a toothbrush.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.
- Warning: This method is not suitable for gemstone or plated jewelry—it may be too harsh.
- Caring for gold-plated jewelry
- Since the gold layer is thin and delicate, use a mild approach only.
- A soft cloth dampened with warm water and a drop of mild dish soap usually suffices.
- Rinse lightly and gently dry.
- Do not scrub plated jewelry vigorously—it may wear off the plating!
How to care for your jewelry
Extend the life of your pieces with these simple habits:
- Store jewelry in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box, away from sunlight and moisture.
- Remove your favorite pieces before showering or exercising—water, soap, and sweat can cause wear.
- Apply perfume, lotions, and hairspray before putting on your jewelry—to avoid chemical damage.
When to choose professional cleaning
If some pieces still appear dull, professional cleaning might be the way to go. Many jewelers offer ultrasonic cleaning, which effectively removes dirt from even the tiniest crevices. This method is ideal for diamond or gemstone pieces that need extra care.
Cleaning is time well spent
Maintaining your jewelry doesn’t require much effort—it can often be done in just a few minutes now and then. With the right care, your favorite pieces can stay as beautiful as the day you got them. The better you care for them, the longer they’ll last and bring joy.
