How to Clean Earrings: The Best Methods for Hygiene and Shine

Introduction

Earrings are a timeless accessory, but without proper care, they can become a breeding ground for bacteria and lose their sparkle. Whether you wear them daily or on special occasions, knowing how to clean earrings the right way keeps them safe for your skin and looking their best. This guide covers the best cleaning methods for different materials, common mistakes to avoid, and essential maintenance tips.

Why Cleaning Your Earrings Matters

• Prevents infections and skin irritations caused by bacteria buildup

• Maintains the shine and beauty of metals and gemstones

• Extends the lifespan of your jewellery

• Removes dirt, sweat, and product residue that dull the earrings over time

How Often Should You Clean Earrings?

• Everyday wear earrings (e.g. studs, small hoops): Clean once a week

• Occasional wear earrings: Clean before and after wearing

• Newly pierced earrings: Clean daily to avoid infections

Best Methods for Cleaning Earrings

Mild Soap & Water Method (Best for Most Earrings)

• Mix warm water with mild soap

• Soak earrings for a few minutes

• Gently scrub with a soft toothbrush

• Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth

Rubbing Alcohol or Hydrogen Peroxide (For Disinfection)

• Dip a cotton pad in rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide

• Wipe earrings thoroughly, especially the posts and clasps

• Let them air dry completely before wearing

• Avoid soaking earrings with delicate gemstones

Baking Soda & Vinegar (For Silver Earrings)

• Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of water to form a paste

• Apply to the earrings and gently rub with a cloth

• Rinse with vinegar for extra shine

• Dry thoroughly before storing

Jewellery Cleaning Solution (For Gold and Gemstones)

• Use a store-bought jewellery cleaner suitable for your earrings’ material

• Follow the instructions on the product

• Use a soft cloth to polish and remove residue

Ultrasonic Cleaner (For Deep Cleaning)

• Best for gold, platinum, and diamond earrings

• Place earrings in the machine with a cleaning solution

• Run according to the manufacturer’s instructions

• Avoid using this method for pearls and delicate gemstones

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Earrings

• Using toothpaste – it’s too abrasive and can scratch metal and stones

• Scrubbing too hard – can loosen stones or damage the surface

• Soaking delicate earrings (pearls, opals) in water – weakens adhesives

• Ignoring earring backs and clasps – major areas where bacteria hide

• Over-cleaning – can wear down plating or polish over time

How to Store Earrings Properly

• Keep in a dry, cool place to prevent tarnishing

• Store in separate compartments to avoid scratches

• Use anti-tarnish pouches for silver earrings

• Keep frequently worn earrings in an accessible spot for easy cleaning

FAQs

How often should I clean my earrings?

It depends on how often you wear them. Daily wear earrings should be cleaned weekly, while occasional pieces should be cleaned before and after use.

Can I use hand sanitiser to clean my earrings?

No, hand sanitiser contains alcohol, which may damage certain metals and gemstones over time. Use rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide instead.

What’s the safest way to clean earrings with diamonds?

Use warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid abrasive cleaners that might scratch the setting.

How do I clean earrings with pearls?

Wipe them gently with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid soaking, as water can weaken the glue.

Can I use vinegar on gold earrings?

No, vinegar is too acidic and can corrode gold over time. Stick to mild soap and water.

Conclusion

Keeping your earrings clean isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s essential for hygiene and jewellery maintenance. By using the right cleaning methods for different materials and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure your earrings remain safe, sparkling, and long-lasting. Take a few minutes each week to care for your favourite accessories, and they’ll keep shining for years to come.