How Often Should You Clean Your Wedding Ring?

Wedding rings are often considered one of the most precious pieces of jewellery a person will ever own, so it's important to keep them clean and well-maintained. But how often should you clean your wedding ring, and are there any specific methods or products you should use?

The general consensus is that a weekly clean is sufficient to keep your wedding ring in good condition. However, this may vary depending on how often you wear your ring and what activities you do while wearing it. If you regularly cook, garden, or do other manual tasks, you may need to clean your ring more frequently to prevent a build-up of dirt and oil. It's also worth considering the type of metal your ring is made from, as different metals may require specific care and cleaning methods.

There are a variety of ways to clean your wedding ring at home, ranging from light washes with mild soap and water to ultrasonic cleaners. While some people opt for professional cleaning services, others prefer to clean their rings themselves using soft-bristled toothbrushes and jewellery cleaning solutions. It's recommended to get your ring professionally cleaned at least twice a year and to be cautious when using ultrasonic cleaners, as the vibrations may loosen stones.

How often should you clean your wedding ring?

Wedding rings are often considered one of the most precious pieces of jewellery that you'll ever own, so it's important to keep them clean and well-maintained. How often you should clean your wedding ring depends on several factors, including the type of metal and gemstone used, how often you wear it, and the activities you engage in while wearing it. Here are some guidelines to help you determine how often to clean your wedding ring:

Weekly or Bi-Weekly Cleaning

It is recommended to give your wedding ring a light cleaning at least once a week, especially if you work with your hands regularly or engage in activities that can make your ring dirty, such as cooking or gardening. This will help prevent the build-up of dirt, oil, and bacteria, which can cause discolouration and dull the sparkle of your ring. A simple way to clean your ring is to soak it in a solution of warm water and mild dish soap for 20-40 minutes, then gently scrub it with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Monthly Cleaning

In addition to the weekly cleanings, it is a good idea to spend a little more time on a deeper clean once a month. You can use a non-abrasive and chemical-free solution to buff your ring, or try an at-home ultrasonic jewellery cleaner. Soak your ring in the cleansing solution for no more than 20-40 minutes, then gently scrub away any remaining impurities.

Bi-Annual Professional Cleaning

While at-home cleaning is important for maintaining your wedding ring, it is also recommended to have it professionally cleaned and inspected at least twice a year. A professional jeweller will be able to safely remove hard-to-reach layers of dirt and grime, inspect for any loose stones or damaged prongs, and ensure that your ring looks its best.

Daily Care and Storage

To extend the time between cleanings, it is advisable to remove your wedding ring during certain activities that can damage or soil it, such as gardening, cooking, cleaning, or sleeping. It is also important to properly store your wedding ring when not in use, keeping it away from direct sunlight and separating it from other jewellery to prevent scratching.

What's the best way to clean your wedding ring at home?

Keeping your wedding ring clean is important not only for appearances but also for maintaining its integrity. Oils, lotions, and debris can build up on your ring, affecting its shine and sparkle and leading to unwanted discolouration and scratches. Regular cleaning will also help to prevent bacteria build-up, which can cause skin irritation and permanent discolouration of the stone and degradation of the metals.

The best way to clean your wedding ring at home is to use a mild dishwashing soap and warm water solution. Fill a small bowl with equal parts warm water and gentle dishwashing liquid and soak your ring for 20-40 minutes. Then, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub away any dirt and residue. Finally, rinse your ring under warm running water and dry it with a soft, lint-free cloth. This method is safe for all types of wedding bands and won't damage any gemstones or metals.

You should avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach, chlorine, and acetone when cleaning your ring, as these can break down the metal and damage certain gemstones. Similarly, abrasive cleaners such as baking soda and toothpaste should be avoided, as they can scratch the metal and discolour your ring. Instead, opt for soft, non-abrasive cleaning tools and cloths to prevent scratching and other damage.

To keep your ring looking its best, it is recommended to clean it every one to two weeks, depending on how often you wear it and what activities you do while wearing it. If you wear your ring daily and engage in activities that may get it dirty, such as cooking or gardening, more frequent cleaning may be necessary. In addition to at-home cleaning, it is also recommended to have your ring professionally serviced by a jeweller at least twice a year for a deeper clean and to check for any loose stones or damage to the setting.

What's the best product to clean your wedding ring?

It is important to keep your wedding ring clean, not only to keep it sparkling but also to prevent bacteria build-up and to preserve the integrity of the metal and stone. How often you clean your ring will depend on how often you wear it and what it is made of. For example, diamond rings are more resilient than opal rings and can be cleaned more frequently. If you wear your ring every day, it is recommended to give it a quick clean every one to two weeks to restore its brilliance and minimise bacteria build-up.

There are several products that can be used to effectively clean your wedding ring at home. Here are some of the best options:

Warm Water and Dish Soap

One of the simplest and most effective ways to clean your wedding ring is to soak it in a solution of warm water and gentle dish soap. Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Allow your ring to soak in the solution for 20-40 minutes to soften any dirt or residue. Then, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the ring, paying extra attention to the diamond and band to remove any remaining dirt. Finally, rinse the ring with warm water and place it on a lint-free cloth to air dry. Avoid using paper towels as they can scratch the metal.

Ultrasonic Jewellery Cleaners

Ultrasonic jewellery cleaners are another popular option for cleaning wedding rings. These machines use ultrasonic vibrations and water to remove fine dirt and dust particles from hard-to-reach crevices in your jewellery. While they can be very effective, it is important to use them sparingly as the vibrations can loosen the stones in your ring over time.

Jewellery Cleaning Solutions

There are also specialised jewellery cleaning solutions available on the market. These solutions are designed to remove dirt and restore the brilliance of your jewellery. Look for a biodegradable, ammonia-free formula such as The Simple Shine Complete Jewellery Cleaning Kit. Simply submerge your ring in the cleansing solution for 20-40 minutes and then gently scrub away any remaining impurities with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Microfibre Cloth or Soft Cotton Fabric

When cleaning or drying your wedding ring, it is important to use a soft cloth that will not scratch the metal. Microfibre cloths or soft fabrics made of cotton are ideal for this purpose. Avoid using paper towels, napkins, or other harsh fabrics that can damage the ring.

Natural Solutions

If you prefer to use natural products to clean your wedding ring, there are a few household items that can be effective. For gold rings, you can try rubbing a small amount of beer onto the band with a soft cloth (avoiding the gemstones or diamonds). For silver rings, a solution of vinegar and baking soda can help remove tarnish. Alternatively, you can submerge the ring in ketchup for a few minutes and then scrub it gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

While it is important to keep your wedding ring clean, it is also crucial to handle it with care during the cleaning process. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the metal and discolour your ring. Additionally, be sure to remove your ring during activities that could damage it, such as gardening, cooking, or working out.

How do you professionally clean a wedding ring?

To professionally clean a wedding ring, you should take it to a jeweler for a deep clean and inspection. This should be done at least once a year, and preferably twice a year, to keep the ring in good condition. A professional will be able to safely remove hard-to-reach layers of dirt and grime, and ensure that no stones have come loose.

If you want to clean your wedding ring at home, there are several methods you can try. It's important to be gentle and patient during the cleaning process, as being too rough can loosen the diamond or scratch the metal. Here are some steps you can take:

• Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a few drops of liquid dish soap. Do not use a cleaning liquid that contains bleach.
• Soak your ring in the solution for 20-40 minutes.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the ring, making sure to get into any crevices.
• Rinse the ring with warm water.
• Dry the ring with a lint-free cloth, such as cotton or microfiber. Do not use paper towels, as these can scratch the metal.

You can also try some at-home cleaning solutions for extra sparkle. For gold rings, you can try soaking the ring in a 50/50 solution of Windex and hydrogen peroxide for 10-15 minutes, then gently scrubbing with a soft brush. For solid gold rings, rub the band gently with a soft cloth soaked in beer (avoid dark ales). For silver rings, make a solution of 1/2 cup white vinegar and 2 tablespoons of baking soda, and soak the ring for 2-3 hours, then rinse and dry thoroughly.

It's important to note that at-home cleaning is not a replacement for professional cleaning and inspection. In addition, certain at-home methods, such as ultrasonic cleaners, can cause stones to become loose, so these should be used with caution.

When should you not wear your wedding ring?

It is recommended that you clean your wedding ring regularly, anywhere from once a week to once a month, to keep it in good shape and maintain its sparkle. However, there are certain situations when it is best to remove your ring to prevent damage or loss:

While Swimming or in the Shower

Cold water can cause your fingers to shrink temporarily, making it easier for the ring to slip off without you noticing. In addition, chlorine from swimming pools can damage and discolour metals such as gold, platinum, and the mounting of your ring.

While Exercising

Sweat can cause sterling silver jewellery to tarnish quickly. If you are using gym equipment, lifting weights or doing any hands-on physical activity, you may also risk changing the shape of the ring or bending the claws that hold the diamond.

When Applying Lotions, Sunscreen, Hairspray, or Bug Spray

These substances can get stuck in the crevices of your ring, making it hard to clean. They can also form a film on your jewellery, causing it to appear dull and dingy.

In Direct Sunlight

The sun can bleach certain materials, especially natural elements and some plastics.

While Gardening

Dirt and small rocks can be abrasive to jewellery. If not cleaned immediately, your ring can be permanently damaged. Gardening gloves can also pose a risk to your ring.

When Cleaning the House or Washing Dishes

Harsh chemicals found in common household cleaners, such as bleach and ammonia, can potentially alter the colour of your ring. In addition, the ring may slip off while your hands are soapy and slippery.

When Cooking

Germs and bacteria can get lodged into the ring setting, and the ring may slip off while rinsing things in the sink.

Frequently asked questions