Cleaning Swarovski crystals correctly is the key to keeping them as brilliant as the day you got them. This ultimate guide covers how to clean every type of Swarovski item, from jewellery and figurines to phone cases and crystal-embellished textiles, plus care tips to extend the life of your collection. With the right approach you can remove dirt and tarnish without risking the crystals.
Swarovski crystals have long been synonymous with elegance and luxury, but they are also reputable for their durability and resistance. From glittering jewellery to stunning figurines, Swarovski's "affordable diamond" can hold up to significant wear and tear. However, just like any other stone or metal, Swarovski crystals can become tarnished over time, so regular cleaning is essential for keeping your crystals looking their best.
Below we explore the various methods you can use to clean and care for your Swarovski crystal beads, ensuring they remain as beautiful as the day you got them.
How to clean Swarovski Crystals
Before we get started, it is important to point out that not all Swarovski crystals require the same cleaning methods, because Swarovski crystals can be used to decorate everything from delicate jewellery pieces to clothes and shoes.
In the guide below, we cover how to clean Swarovski jewellery, textiles, ornaments and figurines, as well as Swarovski phone cases.
How to clean Swarovski jewellery
Jewellery adorned with Swarovski crystals can lose its sparkle over time, especially with regular wear. But worry not: with the right approach, your Swarovski jewellery can look as good as new. To maintain the sparkle on any Swarovski piece, all you need to do is clean your necklace, ring, earrings or bracelet with a lint-free cloth after every use.
How to deep-clean Swarovski jewellery
In instances where grime and dirt have built up on your Swarovski pieces, you will need to employ more vigorous cleaning methods. Here is what to do:
- Prepare a gentle cleaning solution: Mix a few drops of mild, pH-neutral dish soap with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, as it can damage the crystals.
- Clean gently: Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, gently scrub the crystals to remove any residue. Be cautious not to scrub too hard or you risk damaging the crystals. Note: you only need to do this if your crystals are very dirty or tarnished; you do not need to use a toothbrush for general maintenance.
- Rinse thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse your jewellery quickly under lukewarm water to remove any soap residue.
- Dry and polish: Carefully pat your jewellery dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Finally, use a jewellery polishing cloth to buff the crystals and metal components to a beautiful shine.
How to clean Swarovski figurines
Swarovski figurines, with their intricate designs and fine details, require extra care when cleaning. Here is how to keep your figurines looking stunning:
- Dust regularly: Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a soft makeup brush to gently dust your figurines at least once a week. This will prevent any build-up of dust and dirt.
- Choose the right cleaning method: Depending on the complexity of your figurine, you can either use a damp cloth or a cleaning solution. For simpler designs, a damp cloth should suffice. For more intricate pieces, mix lukewarm water with a few drops of mild, pH-neutral dish soap.
- Clean with care: If using a damp cloth, gently wipe the figurine's surface. If using a cleaning solution, dip a soft cloth or cotton swab into the mixture and gently clean the figurine, taking care not to damage any delicate parts. Do not fully submerge figurines in water, as this can damage them.
- Rinse and dry: If you are using a cleaning solution, carefully rinse the figurine with lukewarm water. Then use the same lint-free cloth to pat the figurine dry. Allow the piece to air dry completely before displaying it again.
How to clean a Swarovski phone case
Phone cases embellished with Swarovski crystals add a touch of glam to your everyday ensemble, but given how much we use our phones, they can easily become tarnished and dull-looking. To keep your phone case looking its best, follow these steps:
- Remove the case from your phone: Always take off the case before cleaning to prevent any damage to your device.
- Mix a gentle cleaning solution: Combine lukewarm water and a few drops of mild dish soap in a bowl.
- Clean the case: Using a soft toothbrush, gently scrub the case and the crystals to remove dirt and grime. Be careful not to dislodge any crystals during this process.
- Rinse and dry: Rinse the case under lukewarm water, ensuring all soap residue is removed. Gently pat the case dry with a soft, lint-free cloth, taking care not to damage the crystals. Allow the case to air dry completely before reattaching it to your phone.
How to clean Swarovski textiles and clothing items
Cleaning Swarovski-embellished textiles requires a delicate touch to preserve the sparkle and integrity of the crystals. Always check the care label for specific instructions before cleaning.
For clothing, handwashing with a mild detergent in lukewarm water is often the safest option, using water no hotter than 30°C and pH-neutral detergent. Gently submerge and swirl the garment to loosen dirt, then rinse thoroughly. For home textiles, spot cleaning with a damp cloth and mild detergent is advised, gently dabbing the stained area without rubbing or scrubbing. In some cases you may be able to clean clothing items in a washing machine, in which case you will need to turn the garment inside out and place it in a protective bag.
In both cases, allow the textile to air dry completely. For more complex cleaning tasks, consult a professional cleaner experienced in handling crystal-embellished textiles.
Caring for Swarovski Crystals
To ensure your Swarovski crystals remain in excellent condition all year round, follow these additional care tips:
Avoid contact with harsh chemicals
Chemicals in household cleaning products, perfume and cosmetics can damage the crystals' surface. To avoid damage, apply perfume and cosmetics before wearing your Swarovski jewellery, and never use abrasive cleaners on your crystal items.
Store your crystals carefully
Keep your Swarovski jewellery in a soft pouch or lined jewellery box when not in use. For figurines, store them in a secure location away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures and humidity.
Handle with care
When handling your Swarovski items, be gentle to avoid chipping or scratching the crystals. Wear gloves or hold them with a soft, lint-free cloth to prevent transferring oils from your skin onto the crystals.
FAQs
What is the best way to clean Swarovski crystals?
Use a soft microfibre cloth and warm soapy water (mild washing-up liquid). Dampen the cloth, gently wipe each crystal surface, then dry with a separate clean cloth. Avoid soaking foil-backed crystals as water can damage the foil and dull the sparkle. For deeper cleaning of crystal jewellery, use a soft-bristle brush and lukewarm water.
Can I use jewellery cleaner on Swarovski crystals?
Avoid commercial jewellery cleaners, ultrasonic cleaners and strong solvents on Swarovski crystals — these damage the foiled backing, AB coating and surface finish. Stick to mild soapy water for everyday cleaning. For set Swarovski crystal jewellery, hand-clean only and never use ultrasonic baths designed for diamonds and hard gemstones.
How do I clean Swarovski figurines safely?
Dust regularly with a soft microfibre cloth to prevent build-up. For deeper cleaning, hold the figurine under lukewarm running water with a tiny amount of mild soap, then pat dry with a lint-free cloth. Never use ammonia, bleach or abrasive cleaners. Store figurines in their original boxes to limit dust accumulation between cleans.
Why have my Swarovski crystals gone dull?
Dullness usually comes from skin oils, hand cream, perfume, hairspray and dust building up on the crystal surface, or water damage to the foiled backing. Surface dullness wipes off with a damp microfibre cloth and mild soap. Backing damage is permanent — prevent it by removing crystal jewellery before swimming, showering and applying cosmetics.
Can I clean hotfix crystals on fabric?
Hand wash crystallised garments inside out at 30°C or below with gentle detergent. Air dry flat — never tumble dry, which weakens the hotfix glue. Avoid steam ironing the crystals; iron from the inside of the garment only. Properly applied Swarovski hotfix crystals survive repeated gentle washing for the lifetime of the costume.
How do I clean tarnished Swarovski crystal jewellery?
The crystals themselves do not tarnish — discolouration is from the metal setting. Polish silver and gold settings with a dedicated polishing cloth, avoiding direct contact with the foil backing of crystals. For Sterling Silver (925), use a silver-specific cloth. Store crystal jewellery in airtight pouches to slow future tarnishing of the metal components.
