Regular maintenance of earrings is important for preserving both their appearance and the health of the wearer. Earrings, particularly the posts and backings, are in constant contact with the skin, making them prone to collecting various residues. Cleaning involves removing accumulated dirt, natural skin oils, and microscopic bacteria that settle on the jewelry’s surface. Regular upkeep ensures that the metal retains its intended luster and that any embedded stones maintain their brilliance. This simple routine of care is a preventative measure against common skin irritations and helps to prolong the life of treasured pieces.
Recommended Cleaning Frequency
The frequency with which earrings should be cleaned depends heavily on the wearer’s skin sensitivity and how often the pieces are worn. Earrings used for new piercings require the most diligent attention, as the tissue is actively healing. For a fresh piercing, the starter jewelry must be cleaned twice a day for the first six to twelve weeks, using a specific saline solution or a gentle cleanser recommended by a professional.
Once a piercing is fully healed, the standard recommendation for daily-wear earrings is a thorough cleaning at least once a week. This weekly routine prevents the buildup of oils and dead skin cells that accumulate from constant contact with the earlobe. If you wear a pair of earrings only occasionally, they should be cleaned immediately before you put them on and again before they are placed back into storage. This pre- and post-wear cleaning is necessary because dust and bacteria can settle on the jewelry even while it is sitting unused in a jewelry box.
The Necessity of Earring Hygiene
The surfaces of earrings are an ideal environment for the accumulation of microscopic debris, which can lead to several unpleasant issues if left unaddressed. The skin around the ear piercing secretes sebum, a natural, oily substance that mixes with shed dead skin cells and traces of hair and makeup products. This combination of organic material creates a grayish-brownish residue often referred to as “ear cheese.”
Bacteria that naturally live on the skin feed on this mixture of sebum and dead cells, producing byproducts that result in the distinct, unpleasant odor sometimes noticed around piercings. Ignoring this buildup can lead to localized skin irritation, redness, and discomfort in the piercing site. This constant exposure to concentrated bacteria and residue increases the risk of minor localized infections and general sensitivity. Consistent cleaning removes this accumulating grime, minimizing the chance of adverse reactions and preserving the general health of the earlobe.
DIY Cleaning Techniques
Most earrings can be safely and effectively cleaned at home using simple, accessible household items. A gentle, non-abrasive approach using mild dish soap and warm water is the safest method for almost all metal and gemstone combinations. Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild liquid dish soap to create a sudsy solution. Submerge the earrings completely and allow them to soak for 10 to 20 minutes; this helps to loosen and soften any caked-on buildup.
After soaking, use a soft-bristled toothbrush, like a baby toothbrush, to gently scrub the surfaces of the earrings, paying close attention to the posts, backings, and any intricate crevices around stone settings. Rinse the earrings thoroughly under clean, running water to ensure all soap residue is removed. A proper rinse is important because dried soap film can dull the jewelry’s shine and attract new dirt quickly.
For a deeper level of sanitation, especially for plain metal or diamond-set earrings, a short soak in rubbing alcohol or diluted hydrogen peroxide can be used. Submerge only the metal components of the earrings in the solution for a brief period, generally no more than five to ten minutes. After this sanitizing step, the pieces must be rinsed again with clean water and then dried completely with a soft, lint-free cloth. Ensuring the earrings are completely dry before wearing or storing prevents potential moisture damage and inhibits bacterial growth.
Caring for Specific Earring Types
While the mild soap and water technique is generally safe, certain materials require modified cleaning practices to prevent damage. Fine jewelry made from durable metals like gold, platinum, and sterling silver tolerates the standard soap and water soak well. For sterling silver that has tarnished, an alternative method involves lining a glass dish with aluminum foil, placing the earrings on it, covering them with hot water and baking soda, and allowing the resulting chemical reaction to lift the tarnish.
Porous and softer materials, such as pearls and opals, must never be soaked in water or exposed to harsh chemicals like alcohol or peroxide. These can cause the stones to dry out, crack, or lose their luster. These delicate pieces should only be wiped clean with a soft cloth dampened with a very mild soap and water mixture. Costume jewelry, which often uses glues to set stones, should also avoid prolonged soaking, as the moisture can dissolve the adhesive. Always use a gentle touch and avoid abrasive brushes when cleaning any jewelry, especially those with softer gemstones or delicate settings.