Whether you wear your jewelry as an accessory or as the focal point of an outfit, it needs to be cleaned regularly. A jewelry cleaner lifts dirt and tarnish and restores that sparkle and shine you loved at first sight. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all cleaner, we’ve reviewed the best options to help you bring your pieces back to life.
Liquid Cleaners
A liquid jewelry cleaner is one of the most versatile and easy to use. It comes with a dipping tray and soft detail brush to reach hard-to-reach crevices. This cleaner is gentle, so it works for a wide variety of metals and non-porous gemstones. It is also free of phosphates, butyls, ammonia and bleach, which means it’s safe for porous stones like pearls (just don’t leave them in the solution for more than 10 minutes). This affordable, high-quality cleaner smells fresh and mild, making it an all-around winner.
Another great option is a steam cleaner. This machine uses hot steam to loosen up tarnish, dirt and other residues. This option is a bit more expensive than other jewelry cleaners, but it is efficient and quick to clean your pieces. It’s also safe for most metals and gems, although it may not be ideal for softer or plated jewelry.
Dry Cleaning Wipes
For a quicker, no-mess way to clean your jewelry, try using cleaning wipes. These dry, reusable wipes are safe on gold and silver jewelry, and come in a set of 30 to keep you stocked up. They’re also a great choice for a travel jewelry kit.
Baking soda and effervescent heartburn tablets can also be used to clean jewelry. These natural cleaners work through a chemical reaction with water, creating bubbles that eagerly attack buildup and tarnish. Simply place your jewelry in a bowl of water and add the cleaner, let it soak for a few minutes, then rinse and wipe. This method is not suitable for glued gemstones, such as amber and pearl, and shouldn’t be used on delicate metals like plated silver or titanium.
If you’d prefer to avoid the mess and hassle of DIY jewelry cleaning, visit your local jeweler for a professional cleaning and inspection. Most jewelry stores offer this service for a small fee, and it can often be completed while you wait. In addition to thoroughly cleaning your items, a professional jewelry inspection can help you identify potential damage that might require repair, or any other concerns for your pieces. This service is also available for wedding rings, and other heirloom pieces that you wish to have cleaned. It’s also a good idea to visit your local jeweler for regular cleanings of your jewelry, as they can keep it looking its best. This can also help prevent the need for frequent cleanings and prolong the lifespan of your pieces.
