Over time, even your most cherished jewellery can lose its sparkle. But there’s good news—you don’t need professional cleaning to bring back the shine. With a few easy, at-home hacks using everyday items, you can safely clean your jewellery and restore its brilliance. Here are the best DIY jewellery cleaning hacks that actually work.
1. Dish Soap and Warm Water
This classic method is safe for most metals and gemstones.
How to Use It:
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water
- Soak your jewellery for 15–20 minutes
- Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub
- Rinse and dry with a lint-free cloth
Best For: Gold, platinum, diamonds, and sapphires
2. Baking Soda and Aluminium Foil
A go-to hack for tarnished silver jewellery.
How to Use It:
- Line a bowl with aluminium foil (shiny side up)
- Add 1 tablespoon of baking soda and hot water
- Soak silver items for 5–10 minutes
- Rinse and buff dry
Why It Works: The reaction lifts tarnish without scratching.
3. Toothpaste Polish (Use With Caution)
A dab of non-gel, non-abrasive toothpaste can make jewellery gleam again.
How to Use It:
- Apply a small amount to a soft toothbrush
- Gently scrub, then rinse with warm water
- Dry thoroughly
Note: Avoid using this method on soft stones like pearls or opals.
4. Vinegar and Baking Soda
This method is especially useful for stubborn buildup.
How to Use It:
- Mix 1/2 cup white vinegar with 2 tablespoons of baking soda
- Soak your jewellery for 2–3 hours
- Rinse and pat dry
Best For: Sterling silver and durable metals (not recommended for delicate stones)
5. Use a Makeup Brush for Intricate Details
Tiny settings and detailed designs can trap dirt—use a clean, soft makeup brush for gentle precision.
Pro Tip: Dip it in soapy water for extra cleaning power without the risk of abrasion.
Bonus Tip: Microfiber Cloth for a Daily Refresh
A simple wipe-down after each wear can prevent tarnish and buildup.
Use It For:
- Polishing metal
- Buffing away fingerprints
- Maintaining a fresh shine between deeper cleans
Final Thoughts: Shine Without the Spend
DIY jewellery cleaning doesn’t have to be complicated—or costly. These simple hacks help you keep your favourite pieces sparkling using what you already have at home. With regular care and a few trusted methods, your jewellery can stay as radiant as the day you first wore it.
