How to Keep Your Costume Jewelry Clean and Shiny
Outfits can be made more glamorous and spectacular with the addition of costume jewelry, but as with any jewelry, these pieces can become dull over time when not given proper care. They can be exquisite—even “dive”-worthy—as you make a plunge into the waters of a 2023 scandal. Yet they can also be easily tarnished and muddied. Clean with us as we guide you through a simple, step-by-step process for cleaning your costume jewelry and achieving the most bang for your bling.
Supplies You Need to Clean Costume Jewelry
Collect the following items before proceeding: Mild dish soap, warm water, soft-bristled toothbrush, soft cloth or towel, bowl or sink.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Costume Jewelry
Step 1: Make the Cleaning Solution
Take a bowl or a sink and fill it with tepid water, then add to it a couple of drops of very mild dishwashing soap. Stir it gently; do not make it too foamy, as this will make the cleaning process harder. Remember: A good cleaner starts with a good cleaning solution.
Step 2: Carefully Clean the Jewelry
Place the costume jewelry in soapy water and let it sit for a few moments. This will help wash away any jewelry that has recently become dirty. Then, using a toothbrush (soft-bristled, of course), scrub the surface of the jewelry. Most likely, you don’t have a callus on your exerting hand, since exerting on something to yield a callus is not a pleasant way to live.
Step 3: Wash With Clean Water
After giving your jewelry a good scrubbing, you need to rinse it well under running water. It’s necessary to remove any remaining soap or debris; otherwise, you’ll just end up with dirty-looking pieces. I always rinse with clean water immediately after scrubbing. For really delicate pieces or those with high-quality, non-hotfix, Swarovski flat-back crystals, I recommend using a wide-mouthed strainer to catch the jewelry and prevent any possible accidents.
Step 4: Ensure the Jewelry Is Completely Dry
Use a soft cloth or towel to delicately pat the jewelry dry. Do not rub the piece, as this may induce scratches or other forms of compromise. Make sure the item is thoroughly dried before you wear or stow it away for 24 hours.
Restoring the Luster of Tarnished Costume Jewelry
Restoring the luster of tarnished costume jewelry may require a few extra efforts, but the process is not complicated.
How to Use Baking Soda for Tarnish Removal
Make a paste by blending baking soda and a small amount of water. Use a soft cloth or toothbrush to apply the paste to the tarnished areas of the jewelry. Rub it in gently in a circular motion. Rinse the jewelry well in clean water, then dry it as described above.
Using Commercial Jewelry Cleaners
You can also use commercial jewelry cleaners that are specifically made for costume jewelry. Always read the label and follow the instructions provided. Some cleaners made for real jewelry may be too strong or not right for the materials used in your costume piece, and your piece could be damaged if you’re not careful.
Dos and Don’ts When Cleaning Costume Jewelry
What to Do
Regularly clean your costume jewelry to avoid the buildup of impurities that can affect its appearance. You can use a soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub your pieces gently; it’s best to rinse them thoroughly with water afterward. Whatever you do, make sure that all components of the jewelry are completely dry before storing them.
What Not to Do
Don’t clean your costume jewelry with anything that you wouldn’t want to use on your own delicate skin—that means avoiding harsh chemicals, using an abrasive tool, or even soaking for a bit too long. And whatever you do, don’t use a cleaning device that is itself a bit too clean—like an ultrasonic cleaner.
The Importance of Proper Jewelry Storage
Correct storage is as important as regular cleaning to maintain the optimal appearance of your costume jewelry.
Using Anti-Tarnish Jewelry Containers
When you’re not wearing your jewelry, store your costume pieces in jewelry boxes, bags, or soft pouches that are treated to be anti-tarnish. This minimizes exposure to air and moisture, two environmental factors that work together to tarnish metal and cause other kinds of corrosion that can ruin your jewelry.
Organizing Your Jewelry Storage
Organize your different types of jewelry. Avoid the unholy mess! I keep my earrings, necklaces, and bracelets in separate storage boxes, which I put inside my nightstand. I also keep my rings in a separate box from the other types of jewelry, so my nightstand doesn’t look like a jewelry store exploded inside of it.
Maintaining Humidity Control When Storing Costume Jewelry
When storing your costume jewelry, always keep it in a place where you can control the humidity—like a clean, dry room that’s away from any of the moisture-rich areas in your home, like the bathroom or kitchen.
Proper Storage Techniques for Different Jewelry Types
To keep your jewelry in good condition, store it flat. Necklaces and bracelets are best kept on a flat surface, while heavy pieces should not be suspended, as storing them this way can lead to unwanted stretching, distortion, and damage.
Avoiding Sun and Heat Exposure for Costume Jewelry
Do not expose your costume jewelry to the sun or to heat. Both can cause fading and discoloration, resulting in jewelry that gives the appearance of being less valuable.
Conclusion: Keep Your Costume Jewelry Sparkling