The good news is that regular cleaning is one of the simplest ways to keep your jewelry looking as sparkling and beautiful as ever. The bad news is that some types of metal and gems require special care, and overusing harsh chemicals or using the wrong cleaner can damage delicate pieces. Fortunately, the right cleaning product can help you breathe new life into your favorite earrings, rings and necklaces in just a few minutes.
If you’re looking for a safe, effective and fast jewelry cleaner, look no further than gentle dishwashing soap. “Just like it cuts through grease and grime on your dishes, a few drops of mild dishwashing liquid can easily remove a buildup of sweat, sunscreen and other skin oils from most metal jewelry,” says McKenzie Santimer, museum manager and designer at the Gemological Institute of America. Soak your pieces in the mixture for a few minutes, then give them a scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush or a soft cloth. This method is ideal for silver, gold and most hard gemstones but should not be used on pearls, opals or other soft gems.
For a more thorough clean, try a foam jewelry cleaner. These are typically formulated to safely dissolve oil and dirt on most metals and some soft gems, and they typically contain a mild antibacterial cleanser as well. Some also come with a brush to get into the nooks and crannies of intricate settings.
Another great option is a jewelry-specific steam cleaner, which works by blasting your piece with hot steam to quickly and safely remove residue. Both are available to purchase for at-home use, but we recommend sticking with a professional jeweler to ensure you’re using the best methods for your specific pieces.
Alternatively, there are many jewelry cleaning kits that contain an ultrasonic or steam cleaner along with a small tray and brushes for easy at-home use. We recommend choosing a kit that is safe for your particular jewelry (and for your home), and checking the label to be sure that it contains the right mix of ingredients.
To curate this jewelry cleaner guide, the GH Institute consulted experts at the Home Care & Cleaning Lab who evaluate products to determine their performance, ease of use and ingredient labels. In addition to the wipes, foam cleaners and polishing brushes recommended in this article, you can also find a jewelry-specific cleaning solution in stick form for on-the-go cleaning in your bag or carry-on, as well as a more luxe jewelry cleaning set that includes a specialized brush for removing gunk under settings, a pad for scrubbing baby diamonds and a sponge for getting in between the cracks of pave stones. To see all of our product picks, click here. Elizabeth Berry is an Updates Editor at the GH Institute where she optimizes lifestyle content across verticals. She oversees the Home Care & Cleaning Lab and has over 40 years of consumer products experience. She is also an expert in beauty, fitness and food.
