Wedding Ring Mildew: Is This Possible?

Wedding rings are a symbol of everlasting love and commitment, but what happens when these precious tokens start to smell? It's not uncommon for wedding rings to develop an unpleasant odour, and in some cases, it may be due to the growth of mildew. Mildew, a type of fungus, can form on wedding rings that are exposed to moisture and not properly cleaned or dried. This can lead to not only an unsightly ring but also a potential health hazard as bacteria accumulate. So, how can one prevent and address this issue to ensure their ring remains a sparkling symbol of love?

Wedding rings and water resistance

Waterproof and water-resistant wedding rings are designed to be worn at all times, including in water-based activities such as swimming or washing dishes. However, it is important to understand the distinction between waterproof and water-resistant items. Water-resistant rings are safe for activities such as handwashing or showering, but they may not withstand prolonged water exposure, such as swimming in a pool. On the other hand, waterproof rings can resist water entirely, regardless of the duration of water exposure.

Water-Resistant Wedding Rings

Water-resistant wedding rings are typically safe for everyday activities that involve water, such as washing your hands or taking a shower. However, it is recommended to remove them before swimming in a pool to avoid potential water damage. Some water-resistant rings may also be vulnerable to harsh chemicals that are sometimes mixed with water, such as chlorine.

Waterproof Wedding Rings

Waterproof wedding rings offer more comprehensive protection against water. These rings are impervious to water and can withstand water exposure for any duration. Waterproof materials for wedding rings include tungsten, titanium, cobalt chrome, and 18k gold-plated stainless steel. These materials are also resistant to corrosion and tarnishing. However, it is still advisable to avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals, as they may affect the ring's natural colour or any gemstones inlaid in the ring.

Preventing Mildew Growth

To prevent mildew growth on your wedding ring, avoid wearing it in the shower or pool. Mildew can grow on the ring band if it is exposed to these environments. Additionally, regularly clean your ring by soaking it in warm water mixed with mild soap to remove any residue and prevent staining. Ensure that you dry the ring completely with a soft cloth before storing it in a dry place away from direct sunlight.

Mildew and bacteria

Mildew is a type of fungus that can grow on various surfaces, including wedding rings. It thrives in damp and humid environments, and its spores can be found in the air. When these spores land on a suitable surface, they can germinate and grow into mould. Mildew often appears as a fuzzy or powdery coating and can have a distinct musty smell.

Wedding rings, particularly those with intricate designs or gemstones, can provide crevices for mildew to grow. The presence of moisture, such as water or sweat, can further promote mildew growth. Wearing a wedding ring in the shower or pool can increase the chances of mildew development, as the ring is exposed to moisture and may not dry properly.

Bacteria, on the other hand, are microscopic, single-celled organisms that can also grow on wedding rings. They are present everywhere in our environment and can multiply rapidly under favourable conditions. Similar to mildew, bacteria thrive in damp environments and can be transferred to the ring through water or sweat.

The combination of moisture and organic matter, such as dead skin cells, soap residue, or lotions, creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth. This can result in the contamination of the ring, leading to an unpleasant odour. The bacteria can also transfer back to the skin, potentially causing skin irritation or infections.

To prevent mildew and bacterial growth on wedding rings, it is essential to maintain proper hygiene and care. Regular cleaning of the ring, including soaking it in warm water and mild soap, can help remove residue and prevent staining. Thoroughly drying the ring with a soft cloth before storage is crucial to inhibit mildew growth. Additionally, using an anti-bacterial cleaning solution specifically designed for jewellery can help eliminate bacteria and maintain the ring's hygiene.

In summary, mildew and bacteria can indeed grow on wedding rings, especially when proper care is not taken. Regular cleaning, drying, and the use of appropriate cleaning solutions can help prevent their growth and maintain the hygiene and longevity of the ring.

Metal allergies

Wedding rings are often a source of discomfort due to metal allergies. Metal allergies are a common issue, affecting around 10-20% of people who wear jewellery. Allergies can develop even if you've been wearing a ring for years, and they can cause itchy, red, scaly, or otherwise irritated skin where the wedding band sits.

The most common metal allergy is to nickel, which is often found in gold and silver rings due to the manufacturing process. Even in small amounts, nickel can cause allergic reactions. Other metals that can cause allergies include cobalt, copper, chromium, and lead. Cobalt allergies often coexist with nickel allergies, as these metals are often used together in manufacturing.

If you suspect a metal allergy, consult a dermatologist or doctor. They can perform a patch test to determine the specific allergen. To prevent allergies, you can choose hypoallergenic wedding rings made from alternative materials such as platinum, cobalt, tungsten carbide, titanium, or ceramic. These materials are less likely to trigger allergic reactions and are designed with comfort in mind.

Additionally, proper care and maintenance of your ring can help reduce the risk of allergies. When cleaning your jewellery, use a soft brush to remove dirt and dust. For silver jewellery, a polishing cloth can be used. Avoid cleaners containing ammonia, as they can damage metals and softer gemstones.

Wedding ring rash

Causes

The most common causes of wedding ring rash are either an allergy to the metal in the ring or a reaction to the buildup of debris, soap, moisture, lotion, dead skin, or other materials under the ring, which may cause bacterial growth and skin irritation.

Allergies

Many wedding rings are made partially of nickel, which is used to harden soft and malleable gold. It is estimated that between 10% and 20% of the population is allergic to nickel, and allergies can develop later in life. Allergies to other metals, such as silver or gold, are far less common. Other possible metal allergens include cobalt and chromates.

Buildup of Materials

Wearing a ring constantly gives the skin underneath little room to breathe. Moisture from washing your hands, for example, can remain trapped underneath, irritating the skin. Lotion and dead skin cells can also become trapped under the ring, providing an ideal environment for bacterial growth, which can also cause skin irritation. Even soap can be a cause: detergent or particularly sudsy soap can become trapped under the ring and irritate the skin.

Treatment

If you suspect that your wedding ring rash is due to an allergy to nickel, consult a doctor, especially a dermatologist or one who specialises in allergies. They may be able to tell just by looking at your skin if you have a nickel allergy or they can perform a patch test. If your doctor confirms that you have a nickel allergy, you could paint your wedding ring with a coat of clear nail polish to keep the nickel from touching your skin. The coating will eventually wear off, so you will have to repaint your ring occasionally. You can also take your ring to a jeweller and have it plated with another type of metal.

If your rash is caused by moisture, soap, lotion, dead skin, or other debris building up underneath your ring, the first step is to clean your ring. If your ring is complicated, with many stones and crevices, consider taking it to a jeweller to get professionally cleaned. If your ring is simpler, you can use a jewellery cleaning solution.

You should also remove your ring when washing your hands and make sure your skin is completely dry before putting your ring back on. Consider switching to a mild soap when washing your hands, as traces of strong soap or detergent left under the ring can irritate the skin.

To treat the rash itself, your doctor may prescribe medication such as topical corticosteroids or antihistamines. They will probably suggest that you do not wear your ring while you are using the medication to heal the rash.

Prevention

If you are worried about developing a nickel allergy, you can perform the above measures (using clear nail polish or plating your ring with a hypoallergenic metal) to limit your exposure to nickel and reduce your chances of becoming allergic. Nickel may be found in many other components like the back of jeans buttons or in earrings, so consider taking preventative measures with those items as well.

To prevent a rash caused by buildup under the ring, try taking your ring off before you wash your hands, and make sure your hands are thoroughly dry before you put your ring back on. You may also wish to apply a high-quality hypoallergenic hand cream after washing your hands or a lotion containing ceramides, which will moisturise and protect your skin.

How to clean a wedding ring

Wedding rings are prone to building up layers of dirt, oil, and residue due to their daily wear. This can cause skin irritation, metal discolouration, and scratching of the stones and metal. Therefore, it is important to set aside time to regularly clean your ring.

Firstly, gather the following materials:

• Dishwashing or hand soap
• A small bowl
• Warm water
• A soft, new toothbrush
• A cotton or microfiber cloth

Fill the bowl with warm water and add a few drops of soap. Place your ring into the bowl and allow it to soak for 20-40 minutes. Then, gently brush the stone and metal with the toothbrush. Rinse the ring under warm water and either let it air dry on the cloth or gently pat it dry.

Avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach, chlorine, and acetone, as well as commercial silver and gold cleaners, as these can damage the metal and gemstones.

If you want a deeper clean, you can soak your ring in witch hazel or white vinegar for about five minutes. If there is any lasting residue, use a soft-bristled or old toothbrush to gently scrub around the stone, taking care to hit the bottom.

Always dry your ring with a soft cloth and let it air dry completely before putting it away.

Frequently asked questions