We hate to break it to you, but your earrings could be hiding some serious grime. Sure, they still sparkle, but underneath, they’ve probably collected dirt, oils, and a cocktail of products like hairspray and lotion. The good news? It’s super easy to clean them and bring back that original shine. Here’s how to do it, fast and safe.
What You Need: The Essentials for Cleaning Your Earrings
Before you get started, it’s always a good idea to gather everything you need so the cleaning process goes smoothly. Having all the right tools at your fingertips makes the job quicker and easier. Plus, you’ll avoid scrambling for supplies halfway through and instead keep the focus on getting those earrings back to their sparkling best.
Equipment – No need for fancy supplies
Here’s what you’ll need—and the best part is, you probably already have everything at home. Just a few simple items will make all the difference in getting your earrings back to their shiny, good-as-new state.
- A small bowl
- Soft-bristle toothbrush (or an old baby brush)
- Microfiber cloth
- Cotton swabs or tweezers
Materials to get the job done
These simple essentials are all you need to get your earrings like they just came out of the box:
- Mild dish soap
- Baking soda
- Hydrogen peroxide (optional but awesome)
- Clean water
Step-by-Step Guide to Clean Your Earrings Like a Pro
After everything your earrings have been through, it’s time to give them a little TLC. With these easy steps, they’ll be looking refreshed and ready for whatever comes next—whether it's a night out or just a day at home.
How to Clean Earrings with Soap
- Grab a bowl, fill it with warm water, and add a drop of dish soap.
- Let your earrings take a little soak for 5-10 minutes.
- Use a soft toothbrush to scrub away dirt—gently, though, especially on delicate pieces.
- Rinse under cool water and dry off with a microfiber cloth.
How to Clean Earrings with Baking Soda
- Make a paste with baking soda and water—it should be thick, not runny.
- Dab the paste onto your earrings, especially where the grime likes to hide.
- Leave it on for a few minutes, then scrub with a cotton swab or toothbrush.
- Rinse, dry, and admire your work!
How to Clean Earrings with Water and a Cloth
- Sometimes, keeping it simple is best. Just grab a damp microfiber cloth.
- Gently wipe down your earrings to remove any oils or dirt buildup.
- Dry them off with a clean cloth to keep moisture at bay.
How to Clean Earrings with Hydrogen Peroxide
- For a deeper clean, place your earrings in a bowl of hydrogen peroxide.
- Let them soak for 5-10 minutes—it’ll kill germs and break down any gunk.
- Use a soft brush to scrub, then rinse them off and dry completely.
How to Clean Earring Backs: Don’t Forget These!
They are the secret grime collectors maybe forgot about. Soak them in warm, soapy water for a few minutes, scrub with a toothbrush, rinse, and dry. Trust us, it makes all the difference!
How Often should you Clean your Earrings
If you wear them daily, aim to clean them once a week. For the pairs that you only bring out on special occasions, it’s a good idea to clean them up after each wear.
Tips to Keep Your Earrings Looking Fresh
Want to keep them gleaming long after the clean? Here’s how:
- Store them right: Keep your earrings in a dry, clean place. No more tossing them on the dresser!
- Handle them with clean hands, since less oil transfer means less grime build-up.
- Lotions, perfumes, and hairspray can dull your earrings, so take them off before you get ready.
- A quick wipe with a soft cloth after each wear will keep them sparkle like new.