How to Clean Jewelry with Household Items

Have you been avoiding cleaning your jewelry because of the cost?

Well, you may be surprised that common household items can do a great job of making your jewels gleam and without any of harsh chemicals to worry about. Here are three easy methods to keep your pieces shining bright.  

Baking Soda, Aluminum and Water

Tarnish transfers and sticks to aluminum foil, therefore making it a great use for cleaning your silver jewelry. It only takes about ten minutes to make your items look brand new.

Materials:

• 2 tbsp baking soda
• 2 tbsp of salt
• ¼ cup of boiling water
• Piece of aluminum foil
• Dish
• Soft cloth

Directions:

Step 1: Line a dish with aluminum foil (dull side up).

Step 2: Add in baking soda and salt.

Step 3: Add boiling water and stir gently until baking soda dissolves.

Step 4: Place jewelry in dish.

Step 5: Remove from dish, rinse, and polish.

Baking Soda and Water

Baking soda has a variety of uses such as cleaning your sink and it is especially great for removing tarnish from silver jewelry. If your jewelry is gold, it’s still OK to use, just add a splash of vinegar after step two right before you rinse with water.

Materials:

• ¼ cup of baking soda
• 2 tbsp water
• Sponge
• Dish
• Soft cloth

Directions:

Step 1: Make a paste with ¼ baking soda and 2 tbsp water.

Step 2: Apply with damp sponge and rub.

Step 3: Rinse with water.

Step 4: Buff dry.

Mild Dish Soap

Dish soap is a really gentle (and easy!) way to clean your jewelry. Just make sure you are using a new, soft bristle brush in order to avoid scratching.

Materials:

• Gentle dish soap
• 1 cup of warm water
• Soft bristle toothbrush
• Dish
• Soft cloth

Directions:

Step 1: Fill a glass with soap and warm water.

Step 2: Soak the item.

Step 3: Scrub bracelet with a toothbrush.

Step 4: Rinse and air dry.

Step 5: Polish with cloth.

Simple Rules for Keeping Your Jewelry Clean

Be aware not every method works for every piece of jewelry. Here are a few simple rules to follow when cleaning your jewelry and keeping it clean.

1. Be careful not to soak items too long. Start with five minutes and work your way up as needed.
2. When using a toothbrush always make sure it is new and only used for jewelry cleaning. Many sites will recommend to use an old brush but that can only increase your chances of getting unnecessary residue on your item. Remember, brushing too hard can cause some scratches as well.
3. Always avoid using chlorine since that can discolor your jewelry.
4. Never use bleach or acetone since it can break down metals. It’s best to take off jewelry while cleaning.
5. Keep in mind that applying lotion or antibacterial gel while wearing your jewelry can make it dull, especially your diamond rings.

How to Clean Your Jewelry at Home

Here are a few methods for each piece in your jewelry box with common household items. When cleaning your jewelry, taking into account what material it is made from to figure out how to clean it best. Soap and water is almost always safe to try if you’re unsure what your jewelry is made of.

No matter what your gems or jewels are, there are many ways to keep them clean without worrying about ruining them. There’s nothing better than glancing down at your beautiful, sparkly jewelry. It’s best to clean every 6 months or simply as needed. Looking for some personalized jewelry gifts for your loved ones? There’s something for every style out there.