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How to Clean Earrings at Home

Similar to washing your garments, cleaning your earrings is an essential task that should take place before it becomes unavoidable. Although it may feel like a chore, earring cleaning is a necessary facet of jewelry ownership. We’re here to be your best, dedicated advocate, ensuring you never have to go a moment without your everyday accessory. 

Regular cleaning not only prevents potential damage but also ensures you can wear your earrings anytime without concern for their condition. Cleaning your earrings at home requires delicacy due to each material’s individual properties. Note that there is more than one way to clean these metals and stones, but these home earring cleaning methods are the ones we recommend for the best results. For specific inquiries, consult one of our jewelry experts at the time of purchase or contact us during normal business hours through our store line at 402.391.0400.   

Diamond dangle hoop earrings styled on a female model

How to Clean Diamond Earrings

Diamond resists scratches better than any other gem, but it is susceptible to damage from physical blows. Keep it simple by gently washing with a solution of lukewarm water and soft soap, avoiding any scrubbing. You may use an ultrasonic cleaner or steamer to clean your diamond earrings but be sure to examine the stones beforehand. If you notice any feathers, fractures, or inclusions, bring the item in for expert cleaning and inspection.  

Sterling silver earrings worn by a female model

How to Clean Sterling Silver Earrings

Sterling silver tends to tarnish, so you must adapt your earring cleaning approach based on the severity of discoloration. The first remedy is for sterling silver earrings that are slightly to mildly lackluster. Combine lukewarm water and soft, unscented soap then let the earrings soak in the mixture for a few minutes. Be sure to thoroughly rinse and dry after cleaning and follow up with a gentle buff using a silver polishing cloth. If the metal is highly tarnished, bring the earrings into our store for cleaning by an expert jeweler.  

Yellow gold stud earrings pictured on a female model

How to Clean Gold Earrings

The best way to clean gold earrings at home is by using a combination of lukewarm water and soft, fragrance-free soap. Add a few drops of the soap to a bowl of lukewarm water then gently rest the earrings in the soapy water for a few minutes. Rinse the earrings thoroughly to remove any soap residue. Gold boasts high corrosion resistance, so you can confidently use mild cleaning solutions and brushes without risk of damage. After cleaning your gold earrings, give them a little extra shine with a polishing cloth by simply rubbing the cloth over the surface in a circular motion until they regain their luster. And, ta-da, the process is complete.

FAQs

 

Should I Clean New Earrings Before Wearing Them? 

Yes. It’s always wise to clean new earrings before wearing them for the first time. Despite being brand new, earrings can collect dust, debris, or residues from manufacturing. Cleaning helps remove any potential irritants and improves overall appearance, allowing you to enjoy your new accessory to the fullest from the very start. 

Can I Clean My Earrings with Hydrogen Peroxide? 

Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful disinfectant and can be an effective option for sanitizing your earrings. However, it should only be applied to the metal parts. Gemstones should never come into contact with hydrogen peroxide because it can damage their internal structure. Use this compound sparingly with sterling silver, as it can react with certain chemicals, and prolonged exposure may cause dulling. Also, exercise caution with gold, especially in higher karats. To clean your earrings with hydrogen peroxide, bathe them in a diluted solution of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water for a few minutesAfterward, thoroughly rinse and dry them with a soft cloth to remove any lingering moisture. 

How Often Should I Clean My Earrings? 

While you can clean your earrings at home, it’s a good idea to bring them in for professional cleaning every six months. We offer complimentary cleaning for all jewelry, regardless of where it was purchased. Not only will our in-house jewelers clean your earrings, but they will also inspect for any damage that may have occurred since your last inspection.  

As an extra layer of security, we recommend insuring your earrings to protect them from potential loss or damage. With proper maintenance and care, your pieces can continue to look as new and invigorated as the day you first wore them.  

Have Questions About Earring Cleaning? 

Please call or text us at 402.391.0400 or email mailto:[email protected].