Whether you wear jewelry with every outfit, or only on special occasions, it’s important to keep your pieces sparkling. Jewelry cleaner can lift off discoloration caused by dirt, lotions and other daily residue. It can also remove tarnish, which can make your jewelry look dull and dirty. With a few easy steps, you can revive your jewelry’s luster and shine in just a few minutes.
Most jewelry cleaning solutions are safe for the majority of metals and gemstones, but some may not be safe for softer porous stones such as coral or pearl. The best jewelry cleaners will indicate what materials they’re safe for, and if you’re concerned, always seek the advice of a professional.
The most common and effective way to clean jewelry is to soak it in warm water. Then, using a soft-bristled toothbrush or other gentle brush, scrub away residue and grime. Rinse, dry and buff the jewelry until it sparkles again. This method can be used for rings, bracelets and necklaces of all sizes. It’s especially helpful for removing buildup from tight spaces, like around prongs or in small crevices.
This jewelry cleaner is safe for all precious metals and most gemstones, including diamonds. It is non-toxic, ammonia-free and comes in an 8-ounce bottle, so it will last a long time. It has a pleasant scent, and is quite affordable compared to other jewelry cleaners at a similar price point. It also includes a dipping tray, which can help reduce the risk of scratches and other damage during soaking.
A steam cleaner is another option for cleaning your jewelry. This one isn’t just convenient, but it can also be more efficient than a traditional cleaner. It can work for up to 15 minutes at a time, and you can choose from short steam bursts or continuous steam. Its small size makes it ideal for travel, and it comes with a basket, polishing cloth, measuring cup and tweezers to hold your jewelry. It isn’t safe for opals, pearls, emeralds or other soft porous stones.
While you can buy commercial jewelry cleaners that can be sprayed on the pieces, they can be expensive and require a separate purchase for the machine. You can also make your own DIY solution for less than $10 a bottle. Pour a cup of hot water into a bowl, and add two to three drops of dishwashing liquid. Soak the jewelry in the solution for a few minutes, then rinse and dry. For hard-to-reach spots, use a clean, soft-bristled toothbrush or other soft-bristled brush to get rid of the remaining grime. This method can be a bit time-consuming, but it’s gentle on most jewelry types and can eliminate many different kinds of discoloration. Soak jewelry once a week, or more frequently as needed.
