Cleaning Wedding Rings: Is Alcohol An Effective Solution?

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 it in good condition. Regular cleaning is essential to maintaining its integrity and shine. While diamonds are the hardest natural substance on Earth, grease and oil can collect underneath, creating a film of dirt that dulls its sparkle. There are several ways to clean your ring at home, including using soap and water, baking soda, vinegar and baking soda, and even vodka. However, it's important to avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, chlorine, and acetone, as well as abrasive cleaners like toothpaste, which can damage the metal and discolour the ring.

Using alcohol wipes to clean your ring

• Choose the Right Alcohol Wipes: Opt for wipes that contain 70% isopropyl alcohol, as recommended by the CDC. This concentration is suitable for cleaning jewellery without leaving a residue.
• Prepare Your Work Area: Place a soft cloth or paper towel on your work surface to provide a clean, scratch-resistant area. Have a plug or a makeshift plug, such as a paper towel, ready to cover the drain if you're working near a sink.
• Remove Dirt and Grime: Before using the alcohol wipes, start by giving your ring a thorough cleaning with liquid soap and a soft toothbrush. Gently scrub your ring, paying special attention to the underside of the diamond and the grooves of the setting. Rinse the ring with warm water and dry it with a clean, soft cloth.
• Use the Alcohol Wipes: Take an alcohol wipe and gently wipe down your ring, ensuring you get into all the crevices and grooves. You can also dip a soft cloth or Q-tip into the alcohol and gently rub it on the diamond and setting.
• Dry and Inspect: Allow your ring to air-dry or use a hairdryer on a low setting to speed up the process. Once dry, inspect your ring for any remaining dirt or residue. If necessary, repeat the process, but avoid overdoing it, as excessive use of alcohol wipes may lead to a build-up of residue.
• Frequency and Storage: While alcohol wipes are convenient for quick cleaning, they should not replace a more comprehensive cleaning routine. Consider using alcohol wipes a few times a week, and always store your ring in a clean, dry place when not in use.
• Stones to Avoid: Do not use alcohol wipes on emeralds, opals, pearls, or any commonly oiled stones, as the alcohol can dry them out or cause other adverse effects. Stick to using alcohol wipes on diamonds and hard gemstones like rubies, sapphires, and topaz.

Remember, while alcohol wipes can be useful for maintaining your ring's sparkle, they are not a substitute for regular professional cleaning and maintenance. If your ring is in need of serious cleaning or repair, consult a trusted jeweller.

Vodka as a cleaning agent

Vodka is an effective cleaning agent for a variety of reasons. Firstly, it has a high alcohol content, which makes it a powerful disinfectant. Vodka is also mostly odourless, making it a good choice for those who are sensitive to strong chemical smells. Additionally, vodka is a natural cleaner that can be used on various surfaces without filling the air with harsh chemicals.

One of the benefits of using vodka as a cleaning agent is its ability to cut through grease and oil. This makes it ideal for cleaning kitchen appliances and surfaces, such as stovetops, backsplashes, and countertops. Vodka can also be used to shine chrome fixtures, such as faucets and cabinet hardware. To clean these surfaces, simply mix equal parts vodka and water in a spray bottle and spritz on the desired surface. For chrome fixtures, spray vodka directly on the surface and buff with a lint-free towel for a sparkling finish.

Another advantage of vodka as a cleaner is its ability to dissolve sticker adhesive. Vodka can be used to remove stubborn price stickers from items such as toys and electronics. Simply apply a few drops of vodka to the sticker residue, let it sit for about 10 minutes, and then wipe it off with a paper towel.

Vodka can also be used to clean jewellery, particularly gold, silver, diamond, or other crystal gem jewellery. Soaking jewellery in a watered-down vodka solution for about 10 minutes can help revive dull or dirty pieces. After soaking, use a toothbrush to gently brush the item, paying attention to any crevices.

In addition to its cleaning properties, vodka can also be used as a deodorizer. Mixing vodka with essential oils can create a natural deodorizing spray for linens, mattresses, gym bags, and shoes.

How to clean the underside of your diamond ring

Keeping your diamond ring clean is essential to maintaining its sparkle and shine. Here are some detailed instructions on how to clean the underside of your diamond ring:

Dishwashing Soap and Lukewarm Water:

• Mix a mild dishwashing detergent with lukewarm water.
• Swish your ring in the solution for a minute, ensuring it is fully submerged.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub underneath the diamond and in the grooves of the setting.
• Rinse the ring with warm water and dry it with a soft cloth.

Vodka or Other Clear Alcohol:

• Fill a shot glass or small container with clear alcohol like vodka or gin.
• Drop your ring into the alcohol and allow it to soak for several hours.
• The ethanol content will dissolve dirt molecules attached to the diamond.
• Rinse the ring with warm water and dry it gently.

Baking Soda and Water Paste:

• Mix baking soda with water to create a paste.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently apply the paste to the diamond and setting.
• Scrub gently, paying extra attention to the underside of the diamond and any crevices.
• Rinse the ring with warm water and dry it with a soft cloth.

Windex (Ammonia-based) and Hydrogen Peroxide Solution:

• Create a 50/50 solution of Windex and hydrogen peroxide in a bowl.
• Soak your ring in the solution for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Gently scrub the ring with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove any remaining residue.
• Rinse the ring with lukewarm water and pat it dry.

Ultrasonic Cleaner:

While this method requires purchasing an ultrasonic cleaner, it is an effective way to clean your diamond ring:

• Place your ring in the ultrasonic cleaner, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• The device uses heat and vibration to shake loose dirt particles.
• Be cautious when using an ultrasonic cleaner, as prolonged exposure to vibration can loosen pave-set gemstones.
• After cleaning, rinse the ring with warm water and dry it gently.

General Tips:

• Clean your diamond ring regularly, preferably once a week, to maintain its brilliance.
• Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, chlorine, and acetone, as they can damage the metal band.
• Remove your ring while cooking, gardening, or performing tasks that involve harsh chemicals.
• Consider taking your ring to a jeweler for a professional deep cleaning every six months to a year.

The effects of toothpaste on your ring

While toothpaste is a handy cleaning agent for your teeth, it is not a good idea to use it on your wedding ring. Toothpaste contains scrubbing particles that are harder than the metals in your ring, particularly gold or white gold. Using toothpaste on your ring can cause scratches or pitting in the metal. While toothpaste will not harm the diamond itself, it could harm other stones in your ring or even the setting. Damage to the metal in the setting could loosen the stones, leading to further damage to the ring.

The chemicals in toothpaste are corrosive to metals and can cause surface abrasions to appear over time. This means that toothpaste may do more harm than good to your precious diamond ring. Instead of using toothpaste, it is recommended to use a mild dish soap to clean your ring at home. Simply soak the ring in a few drops of dish soap and then use a soft, clean toothbrush to gently remove the dirt. This will keep your ring sparkling and scratch-free.

If you are unsure about cleaning your ring at home, it is best to have it cleaned professionally. Professional jewellers have access to ultrasonic cleaners and high-pressure steam blasts that can safely remove dirt and debris from your ring. It is recommended to have your ring professionally cleaned at least once a year to ensure that any hard-to-reach grit is removed and cannot cause damage to the setting.

How to clean your ring with vinegar

While alcohol can be used to clean your wedding ring, it is not the only substance that can be used. Here is a guide on how to clean your ring with vinegar.

• Firstly, it is important to note that vinegar should only be used to clean solid gold or silver rings. Do not use vinegar for plated jewelry or pieces with gemstones (rubies, sapphires, etc.).
• For solid gold and silver rings, create a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. Soak your ring in this solution for 2-3 hours.
• After soaking, rinse your ring under cold water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.
• If your ring is particularly dirty, you can create a paste with vinegar and baking soda. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub your ring with this paste, then rinse and dry.
• Do not use vinegar too frequently, as it may damage the metal over time. Once a week is generally considered the "sweet spot" for cleaning your ring.

Other Methods:

In addition to vinegar, there are several other household items that can be used to clean your ring:

• Windex and hydrogen peroxide solution: Soak your ring in a 50/50 solution for 10-15 minutes, then gently scrub with a soft brush.
• Beer: For solid gold rings, pour a small amount of beer onto a soft cloth and gently rub over the band. Avoid dark ales and do not rub beer on gemstones.
• Ketchup: Submerge your ring in a small bowl of ketchup for 5-7 minutes, then scrub with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
• Dish soap and water: This is a gentle and effective method for cleaning most types of rings. Simply soak your ring in a solution of mild dish soap and warm water for 20-40 minutes, then scrub with a soft brush, rinse, and dry.

What Not to Do:

• Avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach, chlorine, and acetone, as these can break down the metal in your band.
• Do not use abrasive cleaners like powdered cleaners and toothpaste, as these can erode metals and discolour your ring.
• Do not use thick lotions and creams on your ring, as these can result in residue build-up and discolouration.
• Remove your ring while cooking or doing any labour-intensive work, as food, oils, and other substances can get stuck in your ring and cause discolouration or damage.
• If you have a ring with soft stones, such as pearls, emeralds, or opals, avoid using lemon juice or boiling water to clean it, as these methods may damage the stones.

Frequently asked questions