Restore Your Wedding Ring To Its Former Glory

Wedding rings are often one of the most expensive pieces of jewellery a person will own, so it's important to know how to keep them in good condition. Regular cleaning will help to maintain your ring's integrity, allowing you to notice if something is wrong, such as a loose stone. While you can take your ring to a jeweller for a professional clean, there are also simple ways to clean your ring at home.

Cleaning products to use

Wedding rings are prone to an unwanted build-up of oil and debris, which can affect their shine and sparkle. Regular cleaning is important to help maintain the integrity of the ring.

Soap and Water:

The best way to clean a wedding ring is with plain soap and water, no matter the type of metal. Fill a bowl with equal parts warm water and gentle dishwashing soap and soak the ring for 20 to 40 minutes. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub away any remaining dirt or residue. Then, rinse the ring thoroughly under warm running water and dry it with a soft cloth.

Ultrasonic Jewelry Cleaner:

For a more advanced cleaning solution, an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner can be used. These machines use heat and vibration to remove dirt and restore the sparkle to the ring. However, it is important to use these machines with caution as prolonged exposure to vibration can loosen the stones in the ring.

Microfiber Cloth or Soft Cotton Fabric:

When cleaning or polishing a wedding ring, it is important to use a soft cloth to avoid scratching the metal. A microfiber cloth or soft fabric made of cotton is recommended. Avoid using paper towels, napkins, or harsh fabrics as they can scratch the metal.

Specialized Jewelry Cleaners:

There are also specialized jewelry cleaners available on the market that can be used to clean wedding rings. However, it is important to choose a cleaner without harsh chemicals or abrasive components that can damage the metal or stones.

Windex and Hydrogen Peroxide Solution:

For silver or gold rings, a 50/50 solution of Windex and hydrogen peroxide can be used to remove dirt build-up and kill bacteria. Soak the ring in the solution for 10 to 15 minutes, then gently scrub it with a soft brush and rinse with lukewarm water.

White Vinegar and Baking Soda:

For tarnished silver rings, a solution of white vinegar and baking soda can be used as a natural ring cleaner. Mix 1/2 cup of vinegar and 2 tablespoons of baking soda in a shallow bowl until the baking soda is dissolved. Soak the ring in the solution for 2 to 3 hours, then rinse with cold water and dry with a soft cloth.

Ketchup and Toothbrush:

For a quick and unusual cleaning method, submerging a silver wedding band in ketchup for a few minutes can help remove tarnish. Use a soft brush to scrub the ketchup into the crevices of the ring, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry.

It is important to note that regular cleaning of a wedding ring can help maintain its sparkle and shine, but it is also important to bring the ring to a professional jeweler for a deep cleaning at least once a year.

Cleaning products to avoid

To keep your wedding ring in tip-top shape, it's important to avoid certain cleaning products and methods that can cause damage. Here are some things to avoid when cleaning your wedding ring:

Harsh Chemicals

Harsh chemicals such as bleach, chlorine, and acetone should be avoided as they can break down the metal in your ring and compromise its structure. These chemicals can also affect the gemstones in your ring, causing discolouration and erosion. It's best to stick to gentle cleaning solutions to protect your ring.

Abrasive Cleaners

Abrasive cleaners like baking soda, powdered cleaners, and toothpaste can leave scratches on your ring, especially if it's made of gold or other soft metals. These cleaners can also discolour your ring, so it's important to choose a non-abrasive, gentle solution instead.

Hard-Bristled Brushes

When cleaning your ring, avoid using hard-bristled toothbrushes or scrub pads. These can scratch your ring, especially if it has a gold setting, marring its sparkle and lowering its value. Opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush or a specialised jewellery cleaning brush instead.

Ultrasonic Cleaners

While ultrasonic cleaners provide a thorough clean, they can also loosen the stones in your ring due to the vigorous movement and vibrations. It's best to leave this type of deep cleaning to professionals who can check that the stones are still secure after the cleaning process.

Moisturising Products

When cleaning your ring, avoid using products that are moisturising, such as thick lotions and creams. These can leave a film on your ring, causing it to look and feel dirty. Stick to non-moisturising solutions like mild dish soap, shampoo, or body wash.

Paper Towels

After cleaning your ring, it's important to dry it properly. Avoid using paper towels or napkins, as they can leave fibres behind and potentially scratch the metal. Instead, opt for a soft cloth made of cotton or microfiber to gently dry your ring.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can help ensure that your wedding ring stays in optimal condition and maintains its sparkle and shine.

How often to clean your ring

The frequency of cleaning your ring depends on several factors, including the type of ring, 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 ring:

• Weekly Cleaning: It is recommended to clean your ring at least once a week, especially if you wear it daily. This helps remove any buildup of oils, lotions, and debris that can affect its shine and sparkle. A simple method is to use a soft-bristle toothbrush and mild dish soap with warm water. Soak your ring for 15-20 minutes, gently scrub it, and then rinse and dry it with a soft cloth.
• Monthly Deep Cleaning: Once a month, spend some extra time giving your ring a more thorough cleaning. You can use an ammonia-free, biodegradable solution or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Soak your ring for 20-40 minutes, gently scrub it with a soft-bristle toothbrush, and then rinse and dry it.
• Professional Cleaning: In addition to at-home cleaning, it is advisable to have your ring professionally cleaned and inspected at least twice a year. A professional jeweler will be able to safely remove hard-to-reach dirt and grime, check for loose stones, and ensure the prongs are straight.
• As-Needed Cleaning: If you wear your ring during activities such as cooking, gardening, or handling harsh chemicals, clean it more frequently. Remove your ring before engaging in these activities to minimize exposure to substances that can cause damage or discolouration.
• New Ring Care: When you first receive your ring, clean it regularly—at least once a week. The excitement of a new ring can motivate you to maintain its sparkle.
• Ultrasonic Cleaners: Ultrasonic cleaners are effective for deep cleaning your ring at home. However, use them sparingly, as frequent use can loosen the stones. Always consult a professional jeweler for guidance on cleaning methods suitable for your specific ring.

How to dry your ring

Drying your ring is an important step in the ring-cleaning process. It's also a good idea to dry your ring after handwashing, doing the dishes, or any other activity that involves getting your ring wet. Here are some tips on how to dry your ring:

• Use a soft cloth: After cleaning your ring, gently pat it dry with a soft microfiber cloth. Avoid using paper towels, napkins, or harsh towels, as they can scratch the metal or leave fibres behind.
• Air drying: Instead of using a cloth, you can let your ring air dry. Place it in a safe location and let it air dry completely before wearing it again.
• Avoid cotton cloths: While cotton cloths are generally soft, they may not be the best option for drying certain types of rings. For example, if you have a diamond ring, it's recommended to avoid using a 100% cotton cloth for drying.
• Dry your hands thoroughly: Before putting your ring back on after handwashing, ensure your hands are completely dry. This will help prevent moisture from getting trapped under the ring, which can cause skin irritation or bacterial growth.
• Remove rings when possible: To minimise the amount of moisture your ring is exposed to, it's a good idea to remove your ring when doing activities such as washing dishes, gardening, or any other tasks that involve getting your hands wet.

When to get a professional clean

While you can clean your wedding ring at home, it is also important to get it professionally cleaned. This is because professional jewellers can use their expertise to identify any issues with your ring, such as loose stones or small scratches, and fix them. They will also have access to professional-grade cleaning products and ultrasonic machines to restore your ring to its former glory.

How Often to Get a Professional Clean

Most sources recommend getting your wedding ring professionally cleaned every three months, or three to four times a year. However, this may vary depending on your lifestyle and how often your ring is exposed to debris and harsh chemicals. For example, if you work in a kitchen or spend a lot of time outdoors, you may need to get your ring professionally cleaned more frequently.

Signs Your Ring Needs a Professional Clean

Over time, your wedding ring will lose its sparkle due to the build-up of dirt, oils, lotions, and other cosmetic residues. This can cause the metal band to become discoloured and may even lead to skin irritation. If you notice that your ring is looking dull or that the stones appear cloudy, it's probably time for a professional clean.

Choosing a Jeweller

When selecting a jeweller to clean your ring, consider choosing someone with experience caring for similar jewellery in terms of materials, age, and structure. If possible, try to find a jeweller who is familiar with your ring, such as the one where you purchased it. It is also a good idea to ask to speak to the jeweller who will be performing the service before handing over your precious ring.

Frequently asked questions