Cleaning costume jewelry is a frequently asked question since these affordable accessories add fashion to any outfit. Despite their low cost, many pieces hold significant monetary or sentimental value—or sometimes both.
Additionally, the stones and metals in costume jewelry can be more fragile than those in finer pieces, necessitating gentler cleaning methods. Understanding how to clean these items without causing harm will give you peace of mind.
How To Clean A Costume Jewelry
- Doing a Dry Clean
- Gentle Cleansing Solution
- Last Resort Cleaning With Stronger Cleanser
Method 1: Doing a Dry Clean
- The dry method is a safe way to clean old jewelry since moist or wet cleansers can leave behind a film or even cause lasting damage.
- Set up a workspace with good lighting. Avoid overhead lights in dark rooms, as they tend to cast shadows.
- Opt for a desk with a lamp or a clear counter in front of a window.
- Use a dry baby toothbrush or a similarly soft brush to gently brush the jewelry’s surface. This will remove any dirt caked onto it.
- Hold a can of compressed air an inch or two away from the jewelry’s surface and spray. This helps to dislodge any dirt and dust trapped in the crevices.
- Inspect your jewelry with a magnifying glass to identify any additional trapped dirt.
- Use a toothpick to carefully remove any dirt spotted with the magnifying glass. Avoid using a metal pick to prevent scratching glass beads or soft gemstones if your hand slips.
- Polish the piece with a dry, soft cloth. This will remove most fingerprints and smudges, giving your jewelry its original shine.
Method 2: Gentle Cleansing Solution
If dry cleaning doesn’t remove all the grime, escalate your efforts with a gentle cleansing solution.
Follow these steps to use a gentle cleansing solution:
- Mix one part soap with three parts lukewarm water in a small bowl or glass. Use gentle soap to avoid chemicals that could damage your jewelry.
- Dip a soft-bristled baby toothbrush or cotton swab into the soap and water solution.
- Tap the brush on the side of the bowl to remove excess solution. Use the least amount possible on your jewelry.
- Gently brush the gems, beads, and metal with the brush or swab. Apply light pressure to avoid loosening any glue or enameling.
- Rinse the jewelry under lukewarm water quickly. Since water can damage costume jewelry, avoid immersing it for extended periods.
- Gently blot away excess moisture with a soft, dry cloth.
- Lay your jewelry on a paper towel and finish drying it with a hairdryer set to cool. Heat can damage some costume jewelry.
- Polish the piece with a soft, dry cloth to make it sparkle.
Method 3: Last Resort Cleaning With Stronger Cleanser
If both the dry and gentle cleansing methods can’t tackle the stubborn grime, try using a stronger cleanser.
- Get a non-acetone nail polish remover or a gentle jewelry cleanser.
- Always read the label on the jewelry cleanser. Some cleansers contain chemicals like alcohol or vinegar that are not suitable for costume jewelry. Only use a cleanser that explicitly states it’s safe for costume jewelry.
- Pour a small amount of the nail polish remover or cleanser into a bowl or glass.
- Dip a cotton swab into the cleanser, soaking up as little as possible.
- Tap the swab on the side of the glass to remove excess solution.
- Gently scrub the gems, glass beads, or metal elements. Avoid areas where the gem is attached to avoid loosening any glue.
- Quickly rinse your jewelry under lukewarm water.
- Blot away excess moisture with a dry, soft cloth.
- Dry your jewelry on a paper towel using a hairdryer on its cool setting to prevent heat damage.
- Polish your jewelry with a soft cloth, and you’re all set!
Conclusion
Never soak your costume jewelry in any cleaning solution, even if it claims to be safe for costume jewelry and men’s pinky rings.
This is crucial if gemstones or elements are glued in place, as many cleansers can loosen the adhesive.
- Avoid water on jewelry containing copper or mixed metals, as it reacts with copper and causes damage. Stick with dry cleaning methods for such pieces.
- Always put your jewelry on last and take it off first.
- Keep your jewelry away from perfume, hair spray, or other chemicals.
