The popularity of stainless-steel jewelry is attributed to its strong and functional nature. Nevertheless, regular use can lead to tarnishing of the metal. Fortunately, there are various methods that can be used to clean stainless steel jewelry at home. In this article, we will explore each technique and determine the most effective one for you.
Can stainless steel become discolored?
While jewelry manufacturers often use stainless steel due to its high level of corrosion resistance compared to other metals, it is still susceptible to rust and tarnishing. Over time and exposure to the elements, even stainless-steel jewelry will lose its shine. Stainless steel, due to its high chromium content, is less prone to tarnishing and rusting compared to other metals.
The increased amounts of chromium in stainless steel give it greater durability against corrosion. Additionally, its superior heat conductivity compared to other metals makes it a preferred choice for cooking utensils and pots. Now, let us explore the optimal methods for cleaning your stainless-steel jewelry.
Top Techniques for Maintaining Stainless Steel Jewelry
- Cleansing with soap and water
- Begin by getting two bowls and filling them with water.
- In the first bowl, add three drops of dish soap.
- Take a soft cloth and dip one corner into the water and soap mixture.
- Gently rub the jewelry with the dampened corner of the cloth.
- For tougher grime, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub the jewelry after using the cloth.
- Next, rinse the stainless-steel jewelry item by dipping it into the second bowl of plain water.
- Use a dry cloth to remove any remaining water and allow the item to air dry.
Water and toothpaste
- Obtain a tube of plain toothpaste in a white color.
- Moisten a soft cloth with warm water on one end.
- Apply a small portion of toothpaste onto the moistened cloth.
- Gently wipe the fabric over the surface of the jewelry piece.
- Take a soft-bristled toothbrush and delicately brush over the jewelry item.
- Close the sink's drain and rinse the jewelry with warm water.
- Use a clean towel to pat the jewelry dry.
Stainless Steel Necklace
- Water and Baking Soda
- Create a paste by mixing two parts of baking soda with one part of water in a bowl.
- Dip a toothbrush with soft bristles into the mixture.
- Use the mixture and toothbrush to gently scrub your stainless-steel jewelry.
- Rinse the jewelry with warm water.
- Dry the jewelry with a towel.
Stainless steel ultrasonic cleaning devices
Using ultrasonic cleaners to clean stainless-steel jewelry is generally considered safe. These cleaners are especially useful for complex designs or pieces with intricate details. This is due to their ability to access hard-to-reach areas that cannot be reached with a cloth. However, it is important to note that not all types of jewelry are suitable for this method. It is recommended to do thorough research before using an ultrasonic cleaner as it may cause damage to certain gems and pendants.
How to Polish Stainless Steel
By taking some precautions, a stainless-steel surface can maintain its shine just like when it was initially manufactured.
Stainless Steel Accessories
The process of polishing stainless steel is both laborious and time-consuming. One can use Polish to rub against the surface and eliminate any impurities and corrosion that have penetrated the metal. This process causes the particles to break into smaller fragments of dirt or rust, making it effortless to clean them off.
To maintain its optimal appearance, there are several actions that you can take:
- To clean the surface, avoid using harsh cleaners or rough fabrics.
- Avoid using steel wool or any other random abrasive materials to scrub away stains from the surface.
- In the case of water spots being present, they can be removed by polishing them with a dry cloth.