How to Clean Gold Jewellery at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Clean Gold Jewellery at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

Gold jewellery is something special and when its clean gold its even better. Whether it's a cherished heirloom or your favourite gold necklace, keeping it looking shiny and new can be a challenge.

Over time, dirt, oils, and exposure to the elements can dull its sparkle. But don’t worry—cleaning your gold jewellery at home is easier than you might think. This guide will show you how to do it safely so your jewellery can keep glowing for years.

woman wearing a clean gold ring stack

Gold Cleaning Materials You Will Need

  • Warm water

  • Mild dish soap (no harsh chemicals)

  • A small bowl

  • A soft-bristle toothbrush

  • A clean, lint-free cloth or microfiber cloth

  • A soft polishing cloth (optional)

Step-by-Step Cleaning Instructions

To make things easy, here’s a quick list so you can jump to the parts that interest you most:

1. Prepare the Cleaning Solution

First things first, let’s mix up a gentle cleaning solution. Imagine you're cleaning that delicate gold bracelet you wear daily—use a small bowl to combine warm water with a bit of mild dish soap, ensuring it’s just right to avoid any damage. Just make sure the water isn’t too hot—boiling water could damage your gold or any attached gemstones.

2. Soak the Gold Jewellery

Drop your gold jewellery into the soapy mix and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This will help loosen any stubborn dirt or oils that have built up over time.

3. Gently Scrub with a Soft Toothbrush

After soaking, take a soft-bristle toothbrush and gently scrub your jewellery. Think about those intricate details, like the clasp on that old gold locket your mother gave you—focus on those spots where grime loves to hide. Remember, gold is a soft metal, so take it easy—scrubbing too hard can leave scratches.

4. Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse your jewellery under lukewarm water to wash away the soap and dirt. Using a strainer or plug in the sink is a good idea, just in case something slips out of your hands.

5. Dry and Polish

Pat the jewellery dry with a clean, lint-free cloth. Once completely dry, use a soft polishing cloth to give it that extra shine.

gold jewellery being cleaned witjh polishing cloth

Different Methods to Clean Gold Jewellery

  1. Using a Professional Ultrasonic Bath:

    • An ultrasonic cleaner can be a great tool for deep cleaning, especially for plain gold pieces. Just be careful if your jewellery has gemstones like opals or pearls—they can get damaged.

  2. Cleaning with Baking Soda:

    • Baking soda can help with grime, but it’s pretty abrasive. If you decide to use it, be very gentle and rinse thoroughly to avoid scratching your gold. You can also use a cotton bud to clean around intricate details where grime accumulates.

  3. Soap and Water—The Best Option:

    • The easiest and safest method is warm water and mild dish soap. It’s gentle, effective, and works well on gold and most gemstones.

  4. Using Ammonia for Tough Dirt (With Caution):

    • For heavier grime, you can add a few drops of ammonia to the cleaning solution. This can help with tougher cleaning situations but should be used sparingly and with caution. Avoid using ammonia on jewellery with delicate gemstones, as it could damage them.

  5. Polishing Cloths and Commercial Solutions:

    • For regular upkeep, using a commercial jewellery cleaning solution or a soft polishing cloth is great for keeping your gold jewellery shiny between deeper cleanings.

Tips for Caring for Gold Jewellery

  • Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Chemicals like chlorine and household cleaners can seriously damage or discolour your gold. Always remove your jewellery before swimming or cleaning.

  • Store Properly: Keep each piece in a soft pouch or a lined jewellery box to prevent scratches.

  • Regular Cleaning: A gentle clean every couple of months will help keep your gold as shiny as the day you got it.

When to Seek Professional Cleaning

Do you have an intricate piece, like that vintage gold ring with tiny accent stones or a gold bracelet studded with gemstones? It might be better to take it to a professional for cleaning to make sure nothing gets damaged. They can make sure everything is cleaned correctly without risking any damage. While it's there for a cleaning, the jeweller can also check for any weak clasps or loose stones that need fixing, giving you peace of mind. While it's there for a cleaning, the jeweller can also check for any weak clasps or loose stones that need fixing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Your Gold 

  • Using Abrasive Materials: Avoid abrasive cleaners like toothpaste, and use baking soda with caution. While baking soda can help remove grime, it's abrasive and should only be used gently to avoid scratching your gold.

  • Skipping Regular Maintenance: Dirt builds up over time, and skipping routine cleaning can make it harder to get your jewellery shining again. Make cleaning a part of your regular care routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How often should I clean my gold jewellery?

    • It’s best to clean your gold jewellery at least every 10-15 weeks so it doesn't go too long without care. Regular cleaning will help prevent dirt buildup and keep your pieces shining. This will keep it shining and prevent dirt buildup.

  2. Can I use toothpaste to clean my gold jewellery?

    • No, toothpaste is too abrasive and can scratch the gold, leaving it dull. Stick to mild soap and water for the best results.

  3. Is baking soda safe to use on gold?

    • Baking soda can work, but it’s quite abrasive. Use it with caution, and only on items that are less prone to scratching.

  4. Are ultrasonic cleaners safe for gold jewellery?

    • Ultrasonic cleaners work well for plain gold jewellery, but be careful—small stones like accent stones can dislodge, and you definitely don't want them washing down the sink! Fragile gemstones like pearls, opals, or treated diamonds can also get damaged. Always use caution or check with a professional first.

  5. How can I maintain the shine of my gold jewellery?

    • Regular gentle cleaning, avoiding harsh chemicals, using soft polishing cloths, and storing pieces separately will help keep your gold looking great.

clean gold bracelet bangle stack on womans wrist

Gold jewellery is meant to be worn and enjoyed, not just stored away. Maybe it’s that gold ring you never take off or those earrings that make you feel extra special—whatever it is, with a little regular care, your pieces can stay beautiful for years to come. And remember—if you ever feel unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional jeweller for advice.

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