How to Clean Your Jewelry: A Complete Guide on How to Clean Bracelets with Different Materials and Styles

Here at STEEL & BARNETT we have all kinds of bracelets that can add a touch of elegance or fun to any outfit. However, over time, they can accumulate dirt, sweat, and grime, which can make them look dull and dirty. Regular cleaning of your bracelets is essential to keep them looking shiny and new. This guide covers everything from gold and silver to beaded and leather bracelets, as well as stainless steel and mixed-material options. Keep your jewelry looking fresh with our expert tips!

1. Gold bracelets

Gold is a soft metal, so it's essential to handle it gently when cleaning. To clean a gold bracelet, mix a few drops of mild dish soap in warm water and soak the bracelet for 15-20 minutes. Then, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the bracelet, paying special attention to the crevices and clasps. Rinse the bracelet with luke warm water and pat it dry with a soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or rough materials that can scratch the surface of the gold.

A few examples of our gold bracelets which should be cleaned like this can be found below:

2. Silver bracelets

Silver can tarnish over time, so it's important to clean it regularly. Mix a few drops of dish soap in warm water and soak the bracelet for 5-10 minutes. Then, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the bracelet, paying special attention to all parts that would generally gather more dirt, such as around the clasp or in between the individual chains. Rinse the bracelet with luke warm water and pat it dry with a soft cloth. You can use a silver polishing cloth or silver cleaning solution for stubborn tarnish.

3. Beaded bracelets

Do you have any of the bracelets pictured below in your collection? Than the instructions underneath are for you!

 

Beaded bracelets can be made of various materials such as glass, wood and natural or polished stone. It's essential to check the care instructions for the specific material. Generally, you can clean beaded bracelets with mild soap and warm water. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the beads, then rinse them with luke warm water and pat them dry with a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the beads or the string.

4. Leather bracelets

Leather bracelets require special care to avoid damage and maintain their color and texture. To clean a leather bracelet, mix a few drops of mild soap in warm water and use a soft cloth to wipe the bracelet gently. Then, rinse the bracelet with a clean, damp cloth and pat it dry with a soft cloth. Avoid exposing the leather to water for an extended period and avoid using abrasive cleaners that can scratch or discolor the leather.

 

5. Stainless steel bracelets

Stainless steel is a durable and low-maintenance material that can resist tarnish and corrosion, but it can still accumulate dirt and oil that make it lose its shine. To clean your stainless steel bracelet, mix mild dish soap with warm water and soak the bracelet for 15-20 minutes. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the bracelet, focusing on the links and clasp. Rinse the bracelet with luke warm water and pat it dry with a soft cloth. You can also use a microfiber cloth to buff the bracelet and restore its shine.

6. Bracelets with mixed materials:

Bracelets with mixed materials, such as metal and beads or leather and gold, require special care to avoid damaging any of the materials. To clean your mixed material bracelet, first, identify the most delicate material and follow the cleaning instructions for that material. If the bracelet includes metal, you can clean it with mild soap and warm water, following the instructions for stainless steel bracelets. Be careful not to soak the bracelet for too long, and avoid using abrasive cleaners that can damage the other materials.

Here are a few examples of STEEL & BARNETT bracelets with mixed materials:

 

The frequency with which you should clean your bracelets depends on how often you wear them and the type of material they are made of. For example, if you wear a bracelet made of gold or silver every day, you may need to clean it more frequently than one that is only worn occasionally. Similarly, if you wear a beaded bracelet regularly, it may be more susceptible to dirt and oil buildup than a leather one. Of course if you only wear your bracelets occasionally, you can stick to cleaning them twice every year. Cleaning them too often, can also impact how long they will last you.

As a general rule of thumb, it's a good idea to clean your bracelets at least once every few months to maintain their shine and prevent the buildup of dirt and grime. However, if you notice that your bracelet is looking particularly dull or dirty, it's a good idea to clean it sooner rather than later. Additionally, it's important to clean your bracelets after exposure to harsh chemicals such as chlorine or when they come into contact with lotions or perfumes, as these substances can cause damage over time.

In conclusion, cleaning your bracelets regularly can keep them looking shiny and new for a long time. Remember to handle your bracelets gently and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the materials. We hope that with these simple yet effective tips, you can keep your bracelets looking beautiful and stylish for years to come. 

Browse our selection of STEEL & BARNETT bracelets to find the perfect addition to your jewelry collection on www.steelandbarnet.com