Skip toothpaste, baking soda, bleach, chlorine, harsh household cleaners and paper towels. They scratch metal, strip plating and can damage stones. Warm water, a drop of mild dish soap, a soft brush and a soft cloth are all most jewelry needs.
The do-not-use list
| Skip |
Why |
| Toothpaste, baking soda |
Abrasive; leaves fine scratches |
| Bleach, chlorine, pool water |
Can weaken gold alloys and damage plating |
| Household sprays and degreasers |
Harsh on plating, pearls and soft stones |
| Paper towels, tissues |
Wood fibers scratch polished metal |
| Hard brushes |
Scratch metal, can loosen settings |
| Boiling water |
Can crack some stones and loosen glued pieces |
What to use instead
- Soak in warm water with a drop of mild dish soap for a few minutes.
- Brush gently with a very soft toothbrush, especially behind stones.
- Rinse in a bowl, not over an open drain.
- Pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Full guides: gold, diamonds, gold-plated.
Plated or delicate pieces
Gold-plated jewelry, pearls, opals and emeralds need extra care. Wipe with a soft cloth and avoid soaking. When in doubt, ask.
Professional cleaning
Bring pieces to 260 Main St, Orange, NJ, or call or text (973) 673-3800.
What NOT to Clean Your Jewelry With
Skip toothpaste, baking soda, bleach, chlorine, harsh household cleaners and paper towels. They scratch metal, strip plating and can damage stones. Warm water, a drop of mild dish soap, a soft brush and a soft cloth are all most jewelry needs.
The do-not-use list
What to use instead
Full guides: gold, diamonds, gold-plated.
Plated or delicate pieces
Gold-plated jewelry, pearls, opals and emeralds need extra care. Wipe with a soft cloth and avoid soaking. When in doubt, ask.
Professional cleaning
Bring pieces to 260 Main St, Orange, NJ, or call or text (973) 673-3800.