Your engagement ring is a precious reminder of your significant other, and it’s important to keep it looking as shiny and new as possible. This means regular cleanings at home and at the jeweler’s to prevent buildup and debris. To clean your ring, start by mixing a solution of hydrogen peroxide and water in a deep bowl. Next, add your ring to soak for about 20 minutes. Windex and Hydrogen Peroxide Even just a monthly cleaning can make a big difference to your engagement ring’s sparkle. It’s particularly noticeable in a white diamond, which will really shine when it is clean. Some women even choose to clean their rings before important wedding events, like the bridal shower or rehearsal dinner. The most important thing to remember when cleaning your ring is to avoid harsh chemical cleaners, especially bleach and acetone. These will break down your ring’s base metal and could damage any gemstones or delicate details. The best and safest cleaner is simply a mild dish soap, such as hand soap or shampoo. You can also use a non-abrasive scrub or soft-bristled toothbrush. Simply fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of your chosen cleaner, then soak for between 20 and 40 minutes. The soaking will loosen any dirt, lotion or dried soap that may have settled into crevices of the band or behind your diamond. Dishwashing Liquid A little dishwashing liquid can go a long way to reviving your engagement ring’s sparkle. Add a few drops of mild dish soap to warm (but not hot) water in a deep bowl. Soak your ring for about half an hour, and then use a soft toothbrush to scrub it gently. Pay special attention to the underside of your ring, and between the prongs where grime can build up. Once you’ve scrubbed away all the built-up grease, soap and lotion, rinse your ring thoroughly in warm water (making sure that your sink drain is closed!) and dry it with a soft, lint-free cloth. While regular home cleanings will help dislodge surface dirt and restore your ring’s shine, they won’t remove the hardened layer of deep dirt that can damage gemstones or cause skin irritation. It’s important to visit a jeweller on a regular basis to remove this build-up before it causes serious damage to your ring and/or stones. Vinegar Many cleaners can damage traditional band metals or scratch the surface of a diamond, so it’s important to avoid them whenever possible. While regular cleanings at home can dislodge surface build up and help maintain a sparkling shine, a deeper clean at a jeweller’s is best for the long term health of your ring. Pure silver rings can be given a deep clean using a solution of vinegar and baking soda that you’ll likely already have in your kitchen cupboards. Just drop your ring into half a cup of white vinegar and two tablespoons of baking soda and let it soak for around 20 to 40 minutes. It’s also a good idea to remove your ring before rubbing on hand cream, applying fake tan or doing heavy cleaning. Similarly, you should also take it off before showering or going for a swim. This prevents the build-up of residue that can cause irritation to skin or damage your ring. how to clean engagement ring
