When you buy a jewelry cleaner, you’re looking for something that can remove tarnish, brighten dull metal, and clean delicate gemstones without scratching them. We tested 12 jewelry cleaners to find the best, evaluating how much time each took and what type of jewelry they’re compatible with (some have extra whitening or tartar-control agents that could damage some gemstones). We also consulted Brittany Groshong, founder, CEO, and creative director of Valley Rose, who shared tips for keeping your jewelry clean.
Most of the jewelry cleaners we tested were liquid sprays that you spritz over your pieces and let sit for up to 15 minutes. Others are designed for submerging your jewelry in a solution for up to 12 hours. Some have a brush for reaching hard-to-reach areas, while others are ultrasonic or have an electronic device that vibrates your jewelry to remove dirt and grime. Some can even clean your watch.
While professional cleaning is ideal, many people opt for at-home methods to keep their precious jewelry sparkling. “The more frequently you clean your jewelry, the less often you’ll need to have it professionally cleaned,” says Gemological Institute of America (GIA) certified gemologist Megan Cooper of Blue Heron Jewelry. She recommends that you give your pieces a thorough cleaning once every six months and use at-home techniques between appointments to maintain luster and sparkle.
One of our favorite jewelry cleaners is Weiman Fine Jewelry Cleaner ($10, pictured above), which has a convenient dipping tray and a brush for getting to those hard-to-reach crevices. It can get rid of tarnish quickly and works on all types of jewelry, including diamonds and gold. The only drawback is that it’s bulky and doesn’t get deep into certain crevices, particularly rings and earrings.
We’ve also had good luck using toothpaste to remove tarnish from sterling silver. To do so, choose a low-abrasion, solid-color variety that doesn’t contain extra whitening or tartar control agents. Apply a thin layer to your jewelry, then rinse, dry, and polish with a soft cloth. It’s not as effective at removing dark tarnish as our top picks, but it’s fast, inexpensive, and easy to do on the go.
Before you buy jewelry cleaner, make sure to read the label carefully because each product is formulated for different materials and may require a slightly different process. Pay attention to the ingredients list and whether your piece can be submerged in a solution or put into an ultrasonic or steam machine. And always follow the instructions to avoid damaging your jewelry. For example, a gentle solution of vinegar and baking soda can be great for most sterling silver pieces but may not be suitable for soft or porous gemstones like emerald and pearls or organic materials such as coral, doublets, and resin inlay. For the most pristine results, look for an eco-friendly jewelry cleaner that’s made with natural ingredients. And of course, don’t forget to store your jewelry safely in individual compartments or pouches and remove it before showering, washing your hands, or applying beauty products.
