Jewelry is a big investment, so you want to keep it clean and looking its best. Investing in a professional jewelry cleaner can be costly, but there are some budget-friendly DIY hacks you can use to bring back the shine on your most prized pieces. A few of our favorite hacks involve products you probably already have in your home, including vinegar and baking soda. While these methods work best for certain jewelry types, they can breathe new life into even the dullest pieces.
How often you should clean your jewelry depends on how much you wear it, but we recommend at least cleaning it bi-weekly. Without routine cleanings, your jewelry becomes darker and less colorful and may even lose its luster. You should also remove your jewelry before applying lotions or other chemicals, before going into the shower or pool and during any activities that would cause it damage like vigorous sports. Chlorine in particular can have a negative effect on gold and precious stones such as rubies, sapphires and emeralds.
To help keep your jewelry shining bright, we’ve compiled six simple and easy-to-use jewelry cleaner hacks that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Whether you’re looking for a quick polish or a deep clean, these tips will have your treasures sparkling like new in no time.
Baking soda
Using a little bit of baking soda and aluminum foil can go a long way to loosening oils, lotions and other residue. Line a container with foil, add enough boiling water to submerge and add a few tablespoons of baking soda. Let your jewelry soak for 30 minutes, then wipe it clean.
Witch hazel
The alcohol in witch hazel is slightly acidic, but it can help dissolving oil, lotion and grime that’s built up on your jewelry. However, it’s not recommended for plated or soft porous gems like opals and pearls and can scratch softer metals like silver and gold.
Vinegar
Another gentle acidic cleaner, vinegar can be used to remove dirt, oil and other residue from most types of jewelry. While it can be slightly abrasive, it’s great for removing stubborn grime that regular cleaning methods haven’t been able to break down.
Ultrasonic Cleaner
For a fast and effective jewelry cleaner, ultrasonic cleaners send high frequency sound waves through a solution that dissolves oils and grime leaving your jewelry completely clean. The process is safe for most metals and gemstones, but if you’re unsure about the care and cleaning requirements of your jewelry, we recommend having it professionally cleaned by an expert.
For quick and easy at-home jewelry cleaning, we love this kit that includes a jewelry cleaner spray and a lint free cloth. The spray can be used to quickly revive the sparkle of your jewelry, and the lint free cloth is perfect for cleaning those hard-to-reach places. It’s available for under $10, making it a convenient and affordable option compared to similar fine jewelry cleaners that come at a higher price point.
