How to Clean Jewelry at Home: Safe & Simple Methods

Whether your jewelry has lost some of its sparkle or you simply want to keep it looking its best, learning how to clean fine jewelry at home can save you both time and money. With the right approach — and a few common household items — you can remove dirt, oil, and buildup without risking damage to your favorite pieces. For gemstone-specific care tips (including pearls, emeralds, opals, and more), see our gemstone jewelry cleaning guide.

How Often Should You Clean Your Jewelry?

Most jewelry benefits from cleaning every two weeks to remove accumulated dirt, oil, and soap residue. If you wear certain pieces daily, such as engagement rings or favorite necklaces, or live in a humid or dusty climate, consider cleaning them more frequently. A quick visual check is the best guide: if your gold, silver, or platinum jewelry looks dull or cloudy, it’s time for a refresh.

What You’ll Need for Safe Jewelry Cleaning

• A small bowl or cup
• Distilled water or cool tap water
• A few drops of mild dishwashing soap
• A soft-bristled toothbrush or cotton ball
• A lint-free or microfiber cloth

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Fill your bowl or cup with water and add a drop or two of mild dish soap. Stir gently to combine.
2. Place your jewelry in the soapy water and let it soak for 3–5 minutes.
3. Using the toothbrush or cotton ball, gently clean all surfaces, including hard-to-reach areas like chain links and beneath stone settings.
4. Rinse the piece under cool running water until all soap is gone. Cover the drain with a stopper or rinse over a bowl to prevent accidental loss.
5. Pat dry with your cloth, then allow the jewelry to air dry completely before storing or wearing.
6. For extra shine, gently buff with a clean, dry cloth.

Special Notes for Gold, Silver, and Platinum

• Gold: Avoid abrasive materials and chlorine-based cleaners, which can weaken the metal over time.
• Silver: To remove tarnish, use a silver-specific polishing cloth or cleaner designed for sterling silver.
• Platinum: Gentle soap and water are sufficient; have pieces professionally polished periodically for maximum shine.

When to Avoid At-Home Cleaning

If your jewelry contains delicate or porous gemstones — such as pearls, emeralds, opals, turquoise, or amber — avoid soaking, ultrasonic cleaners, and harsh chemicals. Instead, follow the specific guidance in our gemstone cleaning guide or bring the piece to a professional jeweler.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Jewelry at Home

• Can I use toothpaste to clean jewelry? No — toothpaste is abrasive and can scratch metals and gemstones.
• What is the safest homemade jewelry cleaner? A mix of warm water and mild dish soap, applied with a soft brush or cloth, works for most metals and durable stones.
• Can I clean jewelry with baking soda? Baking soda can be safe for certain metals but is too abrasive for soft stones or polished surfaces. Use with caution.
• Should I use an ultrasonic cleaner? Ultrasonic cleaners are fine for diamonds and some hard stones but should be avoided for pearls, opals, emeralds, and treated gems.
• How can I prevent tarnish on silver? Store silver in anti-tarnish pouches or cloths, and clean regularly to remove early signs of tarnish.

With these simple steps, you can maintain the brilliance of your jewelry collection from home. For questions or professional cleaning services, contact The 1916 Company.