Jewelry is made of precious metals and gemstones, so it is important to clean them thoroughly and frequently. Dirt, dander, oil, and dust can build up on jewelry over time, leaving them dull and scratched. Fortunately, there are several ways to clean your jewelry at home without having to spend a fortune on professional services.
One way to clean silver jewelry is with a simple mixture of soap and water. The two ingredients are safe for most metals and can remove light tarnish, spots, and general wear and tear. Just dip your jewelry in the solution for a few seconds, then rinse with water and wipe dry with a soft cloth. This method works best on silver pieces, but it is not as effective on gold items.
Another great way to clean your jewelry is with a chemical-free cleaner like steam or ultrasonic machine. These types of machines are not only safe for most types of jewelry, but they are also incredibly affordable and easy to use. They come with five preset cleaning cycles, a helpful auto shut-off feature, and a basket to keep your jewelry safe during the process.
These types of jewelry cleaners are chemical-free, but they can be a bit pricey per use. They are also not as effective as liquid or wipe-based cleaners, which contain chemical cleaners that can damage certain gems or cause skin irritation.
Some of these jewelry cleaners are designed specifically to clean specific types of stones, such as diamonds and rubies. But other stones, including pearls, amber, and opals, are more sensitive and should be cleaned with care using chemicals that don’t cause damage.
Other ways to clean your jewelry include dish soap and hot water, which are both inexpensive and highly effective. Dish soap is a good option for regular cleaning, but it can also be used to clean tarnished silver jewelry. Simply mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water, and let your jewelry soak for a few minutes.
This is a great way to make your rings and necklaces sparkle, but be sure to watch out for loose stones or delicate designs. It’s also not a good choice for soaking precious jewelry, as the chemicals can corrode or scratch metal.
Another great jewelry cleaner is a glass of club soda, which can brighten up your diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. It’s also a great way to get the shine back on solid gold items, like rings and necklaces.
A clean toothbrush can be a great tool for cleaning jewelry and other delicate items that are hard to reach. It’s especially helpful for getting in those small nooks and crannies that may be difficult to access with soap or water.
It’s also a great cleaning tool for removing the occasional hair spray or perfume, as it can remove the scent from the spray and leave your jewelry smelling fresh again. You can even add a few drops of essential oils to make it smell a little more rosy and luxurious!
