A few easy habits keep everyday pieces shiny, untangled and comfortable to wear.
Quick look
- Put jewellery on after skincare, perfume and hairspray, and take it off before swimming, cleaning or exercise.
- Most everyday pieces can be cleaned with warm water, a drop of mild soap and a soft brush.
- Store pieces separately in a dry place to prevent scratches, tangles and tarnish.
- Take valuable or delicate pieces to a jeweller for cleaning and checks.
Everyday jewellery goes through a lot: hand washing, moisturiser, perfume and being dropped into a bag every evening. A little care keeps it looking good for longer.
Last on, first off
Put jewellery on after you’ve applied skincare, makeup, perfume and hairspray, and take it off before:
- swimming, especially in chlorinated pools or the sea
- cleaning with household products
- exercise or heavy lifting
- going to bed
Gentle cleaning at home
| Piece | How to clean |
|---|---|
| Gold and platinum | Soak briefly in warm water with a drop of mild washing-up liquid, brush gently with a soft toothbrush, rinse and dry |
| Sterling silver | Wash the same way, or use a silver polishing cloth to lift light tarnish |
| Plated or costume jewellery | Wipe with a soft, slightly damp cloth and dry straight away; avoid soaking |
| Pearls and soft stones | Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after wearing; avoid soaking and chemicals |
Little trick
Dry everything thoroughly before putting it away. Trapped moisture speeds up tarnish and can damage plated pieces.
Storage that prevents damage
- Keep pieces separate, in a lined box or individual pouches, so harder stones don’t scratch softer metals.
- Hang or lay necklaces flat to stop chains tangling.
- Store silver in a closed pouch or box to slow tarnish.
- Keep jewellery away from bathroom humidity if you can.
When to see a jeweller
Have valuable pieces checked regularly. A jeweller can tighten loose stones, check clasps and clean pieces that need specialist care.
Good to note
If jewellery leaves your skin itchy or red, it may be a reaction to the metal rather than dirt. Our guide to jewellery for sensitive skin explains nickel allergy and how to choose kinder pieces.
A quick weekly habit
Give the pieces you wear most a quick wipe once a week. It takes a minute and keeps them ready for accessorising whenever you need them.
Ask away
Why does my silver turn dark?
Silver tarnishes when it reacts with sulphur compounds in the air. Storing it in a closed pouch or box and wearing it often slows this down.
Can I wear jewellery in the shower?
It’s best not to. Soap and shampoo can leave a dull film, and water can weaken the glue in some settings.
Is toothpaste good for cleaning jewellery?
It’s best avoided. Toothpaste is abrasive and can scratch soft metals and gemstones.
This article is general information, not medical advice. For skin, scalp or allergy concerns, speak to a pharmacist, your GP or a dermatologist. In an emergency, call 999.