Jewelry evolves constantly, both in terms of design and the material used. Nowadays, the variety of materials used in jewelry making is so extensive that we are sometimes unsure of the specific care each one needs. Cleaning our jewelry is vital for it to stay looking brand new for longer. But what is the appropriate care for each type of jewelry? Today we are going to tell you how to clean your steel jewelry so it doesn’t deteriorate prematurely. In our practical guide, you will find all the steps you need to follow and discover which products to use to clean your steel jewelry to give it that special shine. Let’s get to work! 

What do I need to clean my steel jewelry?

To start with, we explain which basic products and utensils you need to clean your steel jewelry. Later we will give you some alternatives for stains and encrusted dirt. Let’s take a look at what you need to gather together before cleaning your earrings, rings, or other steel jewelry.

  1. Bowl of warm water. Any medium-sized plastic bowl is fine.
  2. Mild soap or detergent. You can use neutral liquid hand soap. Baby soap is also usually very mild and suitable for cleaning steel jewelry. Likewise, your washing-up liquid may also be okay, but make sure it doesn’t contain any coloring or fragrances. The more natural, the better. You will easily find these products in any supermarket, drug store, or pharmacy.
  3. Toothbrush. You must use a toothbrush with soft bristles so you don’t damage your steel jewelry or any decorative elements it may contain.
  4. 2 soft cloths. We recommend using a microfiber cloth for a perfect finish to your steel jewelry.

Steps to clean steel jewelry

  1. Prepare the soapy water: Fill the bowl with warm water, add a few drops of the mild soap you have chosen, and mix thoroughly with your hands until the foam dissolves.
  2. Pre-cleaning the steel: Before cleaning with soap, wipe the piece of jewelry dry with one of the microfiber cloths to remove the dust. This helps to prevent dirt from sticking to the steel during the cleaning process.
  3. Soak the piece of jewelry: It’s time to put the piece of steel jewelry to soak. Leave the soap to activate for at least 10 minutes so the residues loosen. You’ll notice some of it disappears after a while.
  4. Brush: Now use the brush to remove the more resistant stains. Rub your steel jewelry gently and pay particular attention to the engraved details, this is where more dirt tends to build up. 
  5. Rinse your jewelry: Once you have brushed your jewelry completely, rinse under warm running water to remove the remnants of dirt and soap.
  6. Dry: Now use the second microfiber cloth to dry the jewelry properly, thereby preventing any potential limescale stains or other residue that the water may leave when it dries. 

This is a basic clean using utensils we usually have at home. In any case, remember that your piece of jewelry isn’t necessarily made from 100% steel. It may contain other metals or have decorative elements that require specific cleaning.

Other methods and products to clean your steel jewelry

If you don’t manage to clean your steel jewelry with water and soap, you can try using other products and methods to remove those annoying stains. But remember, you risk damaging them if you don’t use the correct products or if your jewelry is not made from 100% steel.

  • TOOTHPASTE: Toothpaste has mild abrasive properties that can return the shine to your steel jewelry. Use a toothbrush to scrub them gently. Never forget to rinse thoroughly after applying the toothpaste. Watch out! If your toothpaste contains larger particles, it may scratch your jewelry. Cleaning your steel jewelry regularly with toothpaste isn’t recommended since you could damage it. Only use this tip in extreme situations.
  • VINEGAR: To return the shine to your stainless steel jewelry, you can also use the vinegar trick. Mix one part white vinegar with three parts warm water. Then use the same method we explained in our step-by-step guide to clean your jewelry with water and soap. Remember that your jewelry may be made with a blend of metals and contain decorative elements that are not resistant to vinegar.
  • SPECIFIC PRODUCTS: If the stains on your steel jewelry can’t be removed with soap and water, and you don’t want to take any risks, choose specific products that you can buy in jewelry shops. They are sold as liquid cleaners, wipes, and cloths. The best thing to do is ask a jeweler for advice on how to get your steel jewelry looking like new.

 

If you are consistent in caring for and cleaning your steel jewelry, it will last you a lifetime. They are robust pieces of jewelry and there is a wide range of designs in different styles available. In the TOUS online store, you will find exceptional steel jewelry to suit all tastes. Use the filters to find the steel earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings that we offer in different colors. You will love them!