The best jewelry cleaner depends on the metal - warm water and mild dish soap work for most pieces, and waterproof jewelry needs the least cleaning of all.
Keeping jewelry bright doesn't require a drawer of products. Most pieces clean beautifully with soap and water, silver responds to a baking soda paste, and store-bought cleaners work for gold - if you follow the label. Here's the honest guide to cleaning everything you own.
DIY Jewelry Cleaning Methods
- Everyday: warm water + a few drops of mild dish soap + a soft brush.
- Silver: a baking soda and water paste removes tarnish gently.
- Gold: a jewelry-specific cleaner or soap and water.
- Avoid: toothpaste (abrasive), ultrasonic cleaners on soft stones, and soaking pearls or opals.
Store-Bought Jewelry Cleaners
Most store-bought cleaners are safe for gold and gemstones - choose a non-abrasive liquid, follow the label, and never use them on pearls, opals, or porous stones. For the least-maintenance option, waterproof jewelry eliminates the problem entirely: our waterproof jewelry collection and tarnish-free jewelry need only a quick wipe.
How Often Should You Clean Jewelry?
Wipe pieces after each wear and deep-clean every 2-4 weeks. Waterproof gold - like our Natural Stone Cuff Bangle and Power Play Cuff Stack - handles showers and daily wear without fading, so it never needs the deep-clean routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best jewelry cleaner?
For most pieces, mild dish soap and warm water. For silver, a baking soda paste; for gold, a jewelry-specific cleaner.
Can you use toothpaste to clean jewelry?
Avoid it - toothpaste is abrasive and can scratch gold and gemstones.
Is an ultrasonic cleaner safe?
Only for sturdy metal. It can loosen stones and damage pearls, opals, and other soft gems.
What jewelry needs the least cleaning?
Waterproof, tarnish-free gold - it stays bright through daily wear and only needs a quick wipe.
Shop Low-Maintenance Jewelry
Browse our waterproof jewelry collection - pieces designed to need the least cleaning of all.
