Whether it’s a fine silver ring handed down to you from your grandmother or a pair of copper costume earrings purchased at the mall, jewelry gets dirty over time. Oil and dander from your skin, dust particles in the air, even build up from hand and dish soap all settle on your bling, leaving it dull and without its original sparkle. To restore luster and shine, you need to clean your jewelry regularly. Luckily, there are plenty of easy-to-use jewelry cleaners out there that make the job as quick and painless as possible.
Jewelry cleaners come in two categories: manual and ultrasonic. Manual options include liquid, cream, foam, wipes, and brushes; while ultrasonic cleaners are electronic devices filled with water or solution that use high-frequency sound waves to agitate and clean your pieces. Groshong notes that there are pros and cons to each type, and deciding which to choose depends on the type of jewelry you wear and how hands-on you’re comfortable being with your cleaning routine.
Our pick for best jewelry cleaner, which we tested on sterling silver, gold, and costume metals as well as cubic zirconia gemstones, is a convenient spray formula that works fast. While it was effective at removing most types of tarnish, we found that it didn’t thoroughly clean certain crevices and settings, particularly those with soft porous stones like coral, opal, jade, and turquoise. Also, it has a strong, pungent odor that might be too much for some.
For an at-home solution that’s safe for most types of jewelry, including those with hard gemstones like diamond and sapphire, try a simple solution of mild dish soap and warm water. Soak your jewelry in the solution for about 15-20 minutes, and then use a soft-bristled brush (like an old toothbrush) to gently scrub away any remaining dirt or grime, paying special attention to any crevices or settings. Rinse your jewelry thoroughly and then dry it carefully with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Another option is to fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap, then soak your pieces for about 15 minutes. Once they’re clean, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub them, then rinse and dry with a cloth. This method isn’t as effective at removing tarnish, but it works well on most types of jewelry and is a lot less expensive than buying a dedicated jewelry cleaner.
It’s important to note that although these at-home methods are relatively safe and effective, it is always wise to have exceptional pieces — such as a family heirloom or a diamond engagement ring — cleaned by a professional jeweler every six months or so. That way, a professional can assess the piece and determine what materials it’s made from before using a cleaner that could cause irreparable damage or wear to your precious gemstones and metals. In addition, a pro can help with maintenance and storage to keep your jewelry looking its best.
