Many rings are made of precious metals and stones. Keeping these rings clean is an important part of proper jewelry care, as dirty rings can become a breeding ground for germs. Regular cleanings can prevent skin irritation, ring scratches, and dulling of the metals and stone. While professional cleaners are always recommended, home cleaning solutions can safely dislodge surface dirt and restore a ring’s shine.
The best way to start is with a quick soak of your ring: Fill a small bowl with warm water and a squeeze of mild dishwashing liquid, and let the ring soak for a few minutes. Then rinse it off under a steady stream of warm water (making sure your sink drain is closed) and gently scrub the band and stone with a soft-bristled toothbrush or jewelry brush, paying special attention to crevices and beneath-the-stone settings. After rinsing, dry your ring with a lint-free cloth.
Vinegar is an easy at-home ring cleaner that can be used for gold and silver rings with hard precious stones such as diamonds or rubies. Pour a quarter cup of white vinegar into the bowl with your ring, and allow it to soak for two or three hours. The acidity of the vinegar will re-energize your diamonds and other gemstones, while also removing any tarnish that has built up. Once the ring is dry, you can buff it with a soft-bristled brush or jewelry polishing cloth to restore its sheen. Be sure to avoid over-cleaning your ring, as this can cause it to lose its sparkle and may strip rhodium or other plated metals, especially in white gold. engagement ring cleaner