Costume jewellery can add a touch of glamour to any outfit, but over time, these pieces can lose their lustre due to tarnish, dirt and everyday wear. Keeping your costume jewellery clean and well-maintained is essential to ensure it continues to sparkle and elevate your look. So how can you do so without potentially damaging your prized pieces? In this guide, we walk you through a simple step-by-step process for cleaning your costume jewellery safely and effectively.
What You Will Need to Clean Costume Jewellery
Before you begin, gather the following supplies:
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- Soft-bristled toothbrush
- Soft cloth or towel
- Bowl or sink
How to Clean Costume Jewellery: A Simple Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Prepare your cleaning solution
Fill a bowl or sink with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Stir gently to create a soapy solution. Avoid using hot water, as it can damage certain materials or loosen glue in some costume pieces.
Step 2: Gently clean the jewellery
Submerge your costume jewellery in the soapy water and let it soak for a few minutes. This will help loosen any dirt or grime. Then, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, gently scrub the surface of the jewellery, paying special attention to any crevices or intricate details. Be sure to use light pressure to avoid damaging the piece.
Step 3: Rinse with clean water
After scrubbing, rinse the jewellery thoroughly under running water to remove any remaining soap or debris. If you are cleaning a delicate piece, place a strainer or colander in the sink to catch the jewellery and prevent it from falling into the drain.
Step 4: Dry the jewellery thoroughly
Using a soft cloth or towel, gently pat the jewellery dry. Avoid rubbing the piece, as this can cause scratches or damage. Allow the jewellery to air dry completely before storing or wearing it again.
How to Clean Tarnished Costume Jewellery
If your costume jewellery has developed tarnish, you may need to take a few extra steps to restore its shine.
Baking soda method for tarnish removal
Create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water. Apply the paste to the tarnished areas using a soft cloth or toothbrush, and gently rub in a circular motion. Rinse the jewellery thoroughly with clean water and dry as described above.
Store-bought jewellery cleaners
You can also use store-bought jewellery cleaners specifically designed for costume pieces. Always read the label carefully and follow the instructions provided, as some cleaners may not be suitable for certain materials.
Caring for Premium Costume Jewellery
Not all costume jewellery is created equal. Premium costume jewellery, such as Swarovski finished pieces, sits in the accessible-luxury middle ground between everyday costume jewellery and fine jewellery. These pieces benefit from the same gentle cleaning approach described above (mild soap, soft toothbrush, no harsh chemicals), but with even more care given the precision crystal craftsmanship.
For Swarovski crystal-set pieces specifically, follow our dedicated guide to cleaning Swarovski crystals, which covers cleaning techniques specifically suited to crystal-set jewellery and avoids common mistakes that can dull the brilliance of premium crystals.
To understand where premium costume jewellery sits in relation to fine jewellery, see our guide on costume jewellery vs fine jewellery.
Dos and Don'ts of Cleaning Costume Jewellery
Dos
- Clean your costume jewellery regularly to prevent buildup and tarnish
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the surface
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water
- Dry the jewellery completely before storing
Don'ts
- Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners
- Do not soak costume jewellery for extended periods, as it can damage certain materials
- Do not use ultrasonic cleaners, as they can be too harsh for costume pieces
- Do not expose costume jewellery to excessive heat or moisture
Proper Storage Tips
In addition to regular cleaning, proper storage is crucial to keep your costume jewellery looking its best.
Use anti-tarnish jewellery boxes or pouches
Store your costume pieces in anti-tarnish jewellery boxes, bags or soft pouches to minimise exposure to air and moisture, which can accelerate tarnishing.
Separate jewellery by type and material
Keep different types of jewellery separate to avoid tangling and scratching. You can use compartmentalised boxes or individual pouches for each piece.
Keep jewellery away from humidity
Store your costume jewellery in a cool, dry place away from bathrooms, kitchens or other areas with high humidity.
Store jewellery flat and avoid hanging heavy pieces
Lay necklaces and bracelets flat to prevent stretching and distortion. Avoid hanging heavy pieces, as the weight can cause damage over time.
Avoid direct sunlight and heat
Keep your costume jewellery away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as these can cause fading and discolouration.
Building Your Costume Jewellery Collection
If you are looking to build or expand your costume jewellery collection with pieces that combine quality craftsmanship with everyday wearability, browse our complete range of Swarovski finished jewellery. From Swarovski necklaces and earrings to bracelets, these pieces sit in the premium costume jewellery category and benefit from the same cleaning and care practices covered in this guide.
Final Thoughts
With this step-by-step guide, you now have the tools and knowledge to keep your costume jewellery clean, tarnish-free and looking its best. Regular cleaning and proper storage are key to extending the life of your favourite pieces, whether they are everyday costume jewellery or premium pieces from brands like Swarovski.
FAQs
How do I clean costume jewellery without damaging it?
Use the gentlest method first: wipe with a soft microfibre cloth to remove dust and skin oils. For deeper cleaning, use a slightly damp cloth with a tiny amount of mild soap, never soaking the piece. Dry immediately with a separate clean cloth. Avoid water immersion, ultrasonic cleaners, ammonia and bleach, which all damage costume jewellery plating and adhesives.
Can I clean costume jewellery with toothpaste?
No ā toothpaste is abrasive and scratches the metal plating and glass crystal surfaces of costume jewellery. Use only soft microfibre cloths and mild soap if needed. For tarnished metal areas, use a Sterling Silver polishing cloth (works on most plated jewellery without harsh chemicals). Always test cleaning methods on a hidden area first to check for damage.
How do I clean tarnished costume jewellery?
Three safe methods: 1) Polishing cloth for surface tarnish ā gently rub the metal areas without touching crystals or glued elements. 2) Diluted lemon juice on a cotton bud for stubborn tarnish ā apply, leave 30 seconds, wipe and dry. 3) Commercial costume jewellery cleaner for badly tarnished pieces. Avoid silver dip baths, which destroy plating and damage adhesives on costume jewellery.
Can I clean crystal jewellery with water?
Yes for brief surface cleaning, but avoid soaking. Wipe Swarovski and Preciosa crystal jewellery with a damp microfibre cloth and mild soap, then dry immediately. Water can damage the foiled backing of flatback crystals and weaken adhesives in glued pieces over time. Never use ultrasonic cleaners on crystal jewellery ā they destroy foiled backings and dislodge glued stones.
How do I stop costume jewellery tarnishing?
Five preventive measures: 1) Remove jewellery before showering, swimming and exercising. 2) Apply perfume, hairspray and lotions before putting jewellery on. 3) Wipe with a microfibre cloth after wearing. 4) Store in airtight bags or pouches with anti-tarnish strips. 5) Avoid storing in humid bathrooms. These steps can extend the life of costume jewellery from months to years.
How long does costume jewellery typically last?
Well-cared-for costume jewellery typically lasts 2ā5 years before plating wears through or stones loosen. Premium costume jewellery using Swarovski crystals and quality plating can last 10+ years with careful storage and cleaning. Daily-worn pieces wear faster than occasional pieces. For longer-lasting jewellery, consider upgrading to Sterling Silver (925) findings with quality crystal stones for a balance of cost and longevity.
