How to Clean Stainless-Steel Jewelry
From watches to wedding rings, stainless-steel jewelry has a lot going for it. It's handsome--it resembles platinum, but it's much stronger and less expensive. It's not prone to rust or tarnish, and it's easy to clean. Here's how to keep stainless-steel jewelry looking its best.
How to Clean Stainless Steel Jewelry
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Keep your stainless-steel jewelry free of dust and dirt. With a soft cloth, gently rub on a little warm, soapy water (dish-washing detergent is fine). Follow the grain of the stainless steel to avoid scratches. Next, apply plain warm water with a cloth, or dip your piece in the water. Gently wipe dry with another soft cloth.
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To clean grimier stainless-steel pieces, use a soft cloth to apply toothpaste--again following the grain of the steel. You want plain white toothpaste that doesn't contain silica. Use a soft toothbrush to reach any etched areas. Afterward, apply plain warm water with a cloth, or dip your piece in the water. You may need to use a clean toothbrush to remove remaining toothpaste. Gently wipe dry with another soft cloth.
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Polish your jewelry with a nontoxic stainless steel polish or polishing cloth--both are available in jewelry stores and online (See Resources below). Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch the surface.
Things You Will Need
- Water with dish-washing detergent
- Soft cloth
- Soft toothbrush
- Window cleaner
- Nontoxic stainless-steel polish
- Stainless-steel polishing cloth
- White toothpaste without silica
Tip
Some people substitute window cleaner for soapy warm water to clean their stainless steel.
Warning
Avoid polishes that contain wax. They can leave a film on your stainless steel jewelry.
Writer Bio
Barbara Dunlap is a freelance writer in Oregon. She was a garden editor at "The San Francisco Chronicle" and she currently specializes in travel and active lifestyle topics like golf and fitness. She received a master's degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia and has been a Knight Foundation Fellow.
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