There’s a good chance you’ve got some dirty jewelry—whether it’s the little gold stud earrings you wear daily or the stately ring your grandmother gave you. But too much rinsing and rubbing can cause damage, while not cleaning enough leads to dullness and loss of luster. Using the right Jewelry cleaner will keep your treasures clean and sparkling, no matter how often you wear them.
Many of the at-home Jewelry cleaners you can buy come in the form of a gel, liquid, foam or ultrasonic cleaner that you use to submerge your jewelry for a few minutes, then wipe it down and dry. They’re usually safe for most metals and stones, but make sure to read the label carefully before purchasing a product—some are only suitable for certain types of gemstones and may irritate skin.
You can also spruce up your jewelry with common household items like vinegar and window cleaner, but keep in mind that these hacks won’t work on delicate or organic gemstones (like pearls or opals), nor will they remove tarnish from pure silver pieces. However, they’re still great for scrubbing away mild buildup, so don’t be afraid to experiment with these methods!
If your gold jewelry is looking dull, try soaking it in a solution of 1/2 cup clear ammonia and 1 cup warm water. Leave it in the solution for a few minutes, then scrub with an old toothbrush before rinsing and drying thoroughly. Be sure to avoid wearing perfume, hairspray or sunscreen while scrubbing your gold—these can harm the surface of your gold jewelry.
Another great Jewelry cleaner is a clean, soft-bristled toothbrush. The tiny bristles are ideal for scrubbing away dirt and grime, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Rinse your jewelry afterward, and don’t forget to store it properly so it doesn’t get lost or damaged.
Glass cleaner can work wonders on jewelry, too. Just be careful not to submerge any pieces with glued stones (like amber or pearls), as the ammonia used in glass cleaner can break down glue and discolor these gemstones.
If you want an inexpensive Jewelry cleaner that you can use on multiple pieces, this one from Connoisseurs is worth the investment. It comes with a small tray for your jewelry to sit in, as well as a brush to help you reach those hard-to-reach places. It’s also free from ammonia, so it won’t irritate your skin or cause your jewelry to yellow over time. Plus, it smells lovely! You can also find Jewelry cleaner online, though it’s important to follow the product instructions carefully—some contain ingredients that aren’t safe for all jewelry types. If you’re unsure about what type of Jewelry cleaner to purchase, ask your local jeweler for recommendations. They’ll be able to guide you toward the safest, most effective products for your specific needs.
