Many jewelry enthusiasts often wonder how to clean stainless steel jewelry. Its rising popularity is due to its durability and affordability. Steel, an alloy consisting of iron and carbon, tends to corrode because of its iron component.
- Adding elements like chromium, nickel, silicon, copper, sulfur, molybdenum, titanium, niobium, and manganese makes steel stainless.
- Chromium, in concentrations ranging from 10 to 30%, forms chromium oxide, providing a protective barrier. This results in stainless steel, which is resistant to corrosion, fire, eco-friendly, and durable.
- Stainless steel is not only straightforward to manufacture and clean but also has a low lifecycle cost.
How To Clean Stainless Steel Jewelry Using Soap And Water
The easiest method to clean your stainless steel jewelry at home involves using soap and water. This technique is also ideal for diamond earrings, gold-plated jewelry, and other pieces.
Materials Required:
- Warm water
- 2 bowls
- 2 non-abrasive, lint-free cloths
- Polishing cloth
Step 1
Mix a couple of drops of mild dish soap with warm water until sudsy. Fill the second bowl with plain warm water.
Step 2
For visibly dirty stainless steel jewelry, soak it for 5-10 minutes. If not, dip one of the lint-free cloths into the soapy water, leaving the other cloth dry.
Step 3
Rub gently with the wet cloth in the same direction as the grain. Avoid using abrasive cloths that may scratch the surface; a soft toothbrush works well too.
Step 4
When done, rinse the jewelry in the bowl of plain warm water to remove loose particles and soap residue.
Alternative: Rinse under the faucet
Step 5
Dry with the dry lint-free cloth or allow it to air dry. For best results, finish with a polishing cloth.
The soap and water method is straightforward and quick, but while it’s inexpensive and effective for light cleaning, it might not clean deeply soiled pieces as efficiently.
How To Clean Stainless Steel Jewelry With Baking Soda
Baking soda is an excellent choice for cleaning stainless steel jewelry as it also functions as a polisher.
Materials Required:
- 1 tbsp baking soda
- ½ tbsp water
- Bowl
- Soft-bristle toothbrush
Step 1
Mix baking soda with water in the bowl to form a thick paste.
Step 2
Dip the toothbrush into the mixture and gently scrub the jewelry’s surface, being careful to avoid gemstones, as baking soda can scratch delicate surfaces.
Step 3
After scrubbing, rinse under running water and pat dry. Polish as needed.
Baking soda serves as a polisher and deodorizer and can remove stubborn grime. However, caution is needed to avoid scratching gemstones.
How To Clean Stainless Steel Jewelry With Vinegar
Everyday household items can also be used to clean your stainless steel jewelry, and vinegar is a prime example, forming a simple but effective cleaning solution.
Materials Required:
- 1 cup vinegar
- 1 cup water
- Bowl
- 2 soft, lint-free cloths
- Spray bottle (optional for ease of application)
Step 1
Mix vinegar and water in the bowl. Submerge the stainless steel jewelry for 10-15 minutes.
Alternative: Mix vinegar and water in the spray bottle, then spray the mixture onto your jewelry separately.
Step 2
Dip one cloth into the solution and spot clean the jewelry. Use the other cloth to dry.
Step 3
Rinse under running water, then dry with the second soft lint-free cloth. For the finest results, finish with a polishing cloth.
Using vinegar is simple and effective for deodorizing, but it does leave a strong vinegar odor behind.
Using Ultrasonic Cleaners For Stainless Steel Jewelry
Ultrasonic cleaners provide a comprehensive cleaning solution for stainless steel jewelry and other types of jewelry.
- These devices emit ultrasonic waves through water to loosen dirt particles, reaching areas a cloth can’t.
- An ultrasonic cleaner allows you to clean multiple pieces at once and can be used for various delicate items like glasses, combs, watchbands, dentures, toothbrushes, and razors.
- This method eliminates the need for manual effort, operating at the push of a button.
Busy Schedule? Take Your Jewelry To A Jewelers For Professional Cleaning
If you’re pressed for time or uninterested in DIY cleaning, a professional jeweler can clean your stainless steel jewelry efficiently.
This approach yields superior results, prevents unnecessary damage to metal or gemstones, and allows the experts to make minor repairs. However, it can be a costly service.
