The Ultimate Guide on How to Clean Earrings

Are your earrings starting to lose their shine? Don't worry because we've got you covered! In this article, you'll learn all the essential tips and tricks on how to clean earrings and keep them looking their best. We'll show you how often you should clean your earrings and which earring cleaning solution works best for different types. Plus, we'll share some handy tips on maintaining your earrings between cleanings so you can keep them looking as good as new. So, let's get started on bringing that sparkle back to your jewelry collection!

How often to Clean Earrings?

Regularly cleaning earrings isn't just about keeping them sparkling. It's a crucial practice for maintaining good ear hygiene. Our skin naturally sheds cells, and earrings can trap these along with sweat, products, and bacteria, leading to potential infections or allergic reactions if the buildup isn't managed. Experts in dermatology emphasize the need for frequent cleaning, particularly for those earrings we tend to wear daily and might forget about, such as our favorite studs. A weekly cleaning routine is recommended to mitigate the risk of irritation and harmful infection by removing accumulated dirt, bacteria, and dead skin cells.

What to Clean Earrings With?

To clean earrings, it's important to consider the material they are made of, as some methods may not be suitable for all types of earrings. Here are some general guidelines:

Hydrogen Peroxide: This is another option for disinfecting earrings, especially for sensitive skin. It can be used on metal parts but should be avoided on delicate gemstones.

Mild Soap and Water: This is the gentlest option, suitable for most earrings, including those made of precious metals and stones. Use a mild dishwashing soap with warm water, and gently brush the earrings with a soft-bristled brush (like a toothbrush). Rinse well and dry with a soft cloth.

Isopropyl Alcohol: This is good for disinfecting metal earrings, especially those without gemstones. It can remove bacteria and give a nice shine. However, avoid using alcohol on soft or porous stones like pearls or opals.

Jewelry Cleaner: Commercial jewelry cleaners are formulated for a variety of jewelry types. Always read the instructions to ensure the cleaner is safe for your specific earrings.

Baking Soda and Water: This paste can be used to clean silver earrings but should be used with caution on stones. Apply the paste, gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush, rinse well, and dry.

White Vinegar and Baking Soda: This mixture is particularly effective for cleaning and shining sterling silver earrings. Avoid using it on gemstones or delicate materials.

Ammonia: A solution of one part ammonia to six parts water can be used to clean gold and diamond earrings. Soak for about 10 minutes, gently brush, rinse thoroughly, and dry. Avoid using ammonia on softer gemstones or plated jewelry.

Different Ways for Cleaning Earrings

Different earring cleaner requires different cleaning methods. Here are the top three best ways to clean earrings that can be done at home:

Method #1: Sanitizing with Hydrogen Peroxide

Wondering how to sanitize earrings? Can you clean earrings with hydrogen peroxide? Without a doubt, YES!

Step 1: First, soak a cotton ball with hydrogen peroxide. This solute is excellent for eliminating bacteria and restoring the shine of your earrings. You can saturate the cotton by placing a cotton ball or pad over the opening of your hydrogen peroxide bottle and then tipping the bottle over.

Step 2: Ensure to reach any nooks, crannies, or corners of the earring with the cotton ball. Spend a few minutes on each earring, adding a little bit more hydrogen peroxide if needed. Afterwards, rinse them in a bowl of water.

Step 3: For a deeper clean, submerge the earring in a hydrogen peroxide bath. This step is particularly useful if cotton strands get stuck to the earrings or if you aim to have a more thorough cleanse. Let your earrings soak in a small hydrogen peroxide-filled cup for 5-10 minutes, then rinse them clean in a bowl of water.

Step 4: Start the drying process by setting the earrings on a clean cloth. Once they feel dry to the touch, they are ready to be stored away or worn.

Method #2: Washing Earrings with Hot Water

Now, let's see how to sanitize earrings using hot water.

Step 1: Before starting, wash your hands to prevent spreading more bacteria to your earrings.

Step 2: Boil hot water either in the microwave or on the stove, ensuring you have enough to submerge your earrings.

Step 3: Soak your earrings in the hot water for roughly 20 minutes. This will kill germs and loosen dirt from the surface of your earrings.

Step 4: Once the soak is done, remove the earrings and gently scrub them with an old toothbrush to brush away any remaining dirt. Rinse the earrings with warm water afterwards.

Step 5: Lay the earrings on a clean towel to dry.

Method #3: Deep-Cleaning Gold, Silver, and Stones

For the last method, let's see how to clean earrings gold, silver, and other gemstones!

Gold Earrings: Clean gold earrings with a mixture of dish soap & warm water. After soaking the earrings for a few minutes, lightly scrub them with a soft toothbrush for deep cleaning. Rinse the earrings in cold water and dry them on a clean towel.

Silver Earrings: Silver earrings need special care. Place them on a tin-foiled baking pan, sprinkle with baking soda, pour warm water over them and leave to soak for an hour. Rinse in a bowl of clean water and dry them with a soft cloth.

Pearl Earrings: Clean pearl earrings with lukewarm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Use a delicate, soft cleaning cloth to wipe the pearls gently and allow them to air dry on a towel. Pearls should be handled gently since they're more sensitive to damage.

Gemstones Earrings: For cut gem earrings, remove dirt with a toothpick or a shaved matchstick. By carefully removing the accumulated dirt in corners, you can restore their sparkle.

A pro tip to avoid losing earrings down the drain is to plug the sink during cleaning, ensuring your treasured items remain safe.

Tips for Maintaining Your Earrings Between Cleanings

To keep your earrings in perfect condition, you can follow these tips to maintain them between cleanings:

Store Properly: Always store your earrings separately in a jewelry box with compartments or on an earring holder to avoid scratches.

Daily Care: After wearing, gently wipe your earrings with a soft, dry cloth to lightly remove any oils or sweat.

Avoid Chemicals: Keep your earrings away from chemicals like perfumes, hairsprays, and cleaning agents by putting them on last when getting ready and taking them off first when you're done.

Moisture Management: Remove your earrings before showering, swimming, or exercising to prevent tarnish or damage from moisture.

Regular Checks: Periodically check for loose stones or hooks to prevent loss or damage, and gently clean any accumulated dirt with a soft-bristled brush.

Periodic Professional Clean: Consider a professional cleaning service once a year to maintain the sparkle, especially for high-value or intricate pieces.

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Conclusion

Keep your jewelry sparkling and your ears healthy by learning how to clean earrings properly. With the simple strategies and tips outlined above, you can ensure that your earrings remain a cherished part of your jewelry collection for years to come. Remember to take good care of your earrings, and they will reward you with their beauty and allure.

FAQ

Here are some commonly asked questions on how to clean earrings.

Why do my earrings get so gunky?

Earrings tend to accumulate dirt and grime due to a combination of factors, such as dead skin cells, natural oils from your skin, sweat, hair products, and makeup. The buildup of dirt and grime becomes more pronounced if you wear them frequently or for extended periods. Moreover, if you do not clean your earrings regularly, the dirt and grime can solidify, making it more challenging to remove over time. Earrings with intricate designs or textures can also trap more debris, causing more dirt and grime to accumulate.

Can I clean my earrings with just water?

Cleaning earrings with just water may help to remove some surface dirt and debris, but it is not effective at fully disinfecting or removing more ingrained buildup. Warm water can be used to loosen gunk, especially when combined with gentle agitation, but for a more thorough clean, it is usually recommended to use additional cleaning agents or solutions designed specifically for jewelry.

Can I clean earrings with rubbing alcohol?

Yes, you can clean earrings with rubbing alcohol, as it is effective in sterilizing and dissolving the oils that contribute to the gunky buildup. It is particularly useful for cleaning the posts and metal parts of the earrings, as it evaporates quickly and doesn't leave a residue. However, be cautious with earrings that have gemstones or delicate designs, as alcohol can potentially damage certain materials. Always check the compatibility of your earrings with alcohol before proceeding.