Top 3 Methods For How To Clean Stainless Steel Jewelry

Do you have some stainless steel jewelry but aren’t sure how to get it looking clean and like new? Stainless steel has a lot of great benefits when used to make jewelry and makes for a great alternative to other jewelry metals. Today, stainless steel is an incredibly attractive and affordable jewelry metal for wedding bands due to its durability, scratch resistance and continued luster. (Check out our blog Best Online Jewelry Store For Engagement Rings & Wedding Rings!) Consider these benefits to using stainless steel for jewelry:

#1 Super Strong.

Finished stainless steel jewelry will retain its shape, will not readily warp, nor will it easily lose its fine detail to nicks or scrapes. Stainless steel jewelry items with a brushed or satin finish will retain their luster longer, as well. Its strength and durability also makes stainless steel resistant to scratches.

#2 Resistant to Rust, Oxidation & Discoloration.

Stainless steel is a relatively corrosion-resistant when compared to other jewelry metals. For those living in high-humidity locations, stainless steel is highly recommended as this metal will keep from rusting much longer than other kinds of metals.

#3 Great Alternative For Those with Allergies or Sensitivities.

Unplated stainless steel jewelry is one of the best options out there for those with allergies or skin sensitivities. Copper or brass jewelry should be avoided for those with allergies or skin sensitivities. Though stainless steel can contain some nickel, it is commonly considered hypoallergenic for most people.

To learn more about how to clean stainless steel jewelry, keep reading!! We’ve got a lot of great tips on how to clean stainless steel rings, the best stainless steel jewelry cleaner, and how to clean stainless steel jewelry at home. For more information about how to clean other kinds of jewelry, check out our Complete Guide: How To Clean Jewelry.   

Best Way To Clean Stainless Steel Jewelry

Stainless Steel Jewelry Cleaning Kit

Does Stainless Steel Tarnish?

If you’re wondering, does stainless steel tarnish, or does stainless steel jewelry tarnish, you’re in the right place! Stainless steel does, in fact, tarnish or rust, although it is the most resistant metal to corrosion of the typical metals used in jewelry making.

Due to its silvery appearance and its resistance to corrosions, stainless steel has become a super popular jewelry metal for fashion jewelry. However, there are 150 different types of stainless steel, all with different resistances to corrosion.

Most stainless steel jewelry is made from a group of alloys called 316L steel, which contains carbon, high levels of chromium and some nickel. Surgical stainless steel body jewelry is an alloy that will not tarnish.  

Stainless Steel Jewelry Cleaner

Ultrasonic Cleaning

In general, it is safe to use ultrasonic cleaners when cleaning your stainless steel jewelry. For elaborate designs or stainless steel jewelry with a lot of nooks and crannies, an ultrasonic cleaner is recommended. Why is this? Ultrasonic cleaners operate with intense vibrations to get into the spots that a cloth can’t. Note: If your stainless steel has gemstones, using an ultrasonic cleaner is not recommended because the intense vibrations can potentially cause damage to the gemstones, make them crack or loosen them from their mountings.

Check out this YouTube video for more information:

Methods For How To Clean Stainless Steel Jewelry At Home

There are a couple different methods for how to clean stainless steel jewelry at home! No matter which method you prefer, you can be sure that these 3 simple methods will get that shine back into your stainless steel jewelry item.

#1 Soap + Water

• Fill 2 small bowls with warm water
• Add 2 - 3 drops of mild dish soap to the 1st bowl
• Dip the corner of a soft cloth into the water + soap mixture
• Rub the cloth along the jewelry
• Using a soft-bristle toothbrush, rub any excess grime away
• Dip the stainless steel jewelry item into the 2nd bowl to rinse it
• Use a dry cloth to wipe away any excess water
• Using a jewelry polishing cloth, polish the jewelry item

#2 Baking Soda + Water

• In a small bowl, combine 2 parts baking soda to 1 part water to make a paste
• Dip a soft-bristle toothbrush into the mixture
• Gently scrub your jewelry item with toothbrush + mixture
• Plug sink and rinse jewelry item with warm water
• Pat the jewelry item dry with a soft towel
• Polish the jewelry item with a jewelry polishing cloth

#3 Toothpaste

• Use a plain, white toothpaste without silica
• Dampen the corner of a soft cloth with warm water
• Squeeze a small amount of toothpaste onto the cloth
• Rub the cloth across the surface of the jewelry item
• Using a soft-bristle toothbrush, reach the detailed areas
• Plug the sink and rinse the jewelry off with warm water
• Pat dry with clean towel
• Polish jewelry with jewelry polishing cloth

How To Clean Stainless Steel Rings

If you have a stainless steel ring and you’re looking for the best way to keep it looking good, try the baking soda and vinegar method! Keep in mind that rings and bracelets tend to have patterns and links that create space in the jewelry item, which make it difficult to clean. To thoroughly clean your stainless steel rings and bracelets, you can let it soak in soapy water for about 10 mins. Also, consider using toothpicks or a toothbrush when cleaning your stainless steel jewelry items. If you’re not sure how to clean stainless steel jewelry vinegar, check out these easy steps:

• With a few spoons of vinegar and some baking soda, form a paste
• Use an old toothbrush or a clean cloth to scrub all the crevices
• Rinse in warm water
• Set aside to dry completely
• Polish with jewelry polishing cloth

How To Clean Stainless Steel Necklace

How To Store Stainless Steel Jewelry

Now that you’ve cleaned your stainless steel jewelry, you’re probably wondering how you can store it to prevent tarnishing or scratching. Follow these simple and easy steps:

• Don’t allow your stainless steel jewelry to come into contact with other metals or gemstones when you store it.

• Store your stainless steel jewelry in a separate, fabric lined jewelry box. This will keep it free from dust and moisture.

• Keep in mind that if your stainless steel jewelry item does get scratched, you can always have it professionally polished by a jeweler.