When it comes to refreshing your jewelry box, new pieces are always a welcome addition, but getting the most out of your bauble collection doesn’t have to mean shelling out your hard-earned cash on pricey new items. In fact, a simple cleaning can make all the difference in the appearance and wearability of your favorite pieces. Better yet, you don’t need to turn to harsh chemicals to see a difference: these natural solutions will have your favorite items shining like new again in no time.
Use Alka-Seltzer tablets:
If you’re fortunate to have a storage-friendly bathroom, like the residents of The Greenwich Lane in Manhattan, you’re likely to have a wide assortment of over-the-counter remedies on hand at any given moment. If Alka-Seltzer tablets happen to be in your arsenal, then you’re in luck: this stomach settling-medication can also help remove tarnish from your jewelry. Simply drop your jewelry into a cup, add an Alka-Seltzer tablet and some water, and let it sit for a minute. When you remove the jewelry, the tarnish should wipe right off.
Soak them in vinegar:
White vinegar works well in salad dressings, marinades, and yes, as a jewelry cleaner, too. All you have to do to remove tarnish and brassiness from your favorite pieces of jewelry is let them soak in some white vinegar for a few minutes at a time and their dull and dingy look will quickly be a thing of the past. Just make sure to use this method only on metal pieces; on pearls or porous stones, vinegar’s acid can cause damage.
Give them a witch hazel bath:
That witch hazel you’ve been using as a toner for years also serves a less-well-known purpose: it works as a jewelry cleaner, too. Soak your jewelry—metal pieces or certain precious stones, like diamonds, only—in witch hazel for just a few minutes and when you remove them, they’ll be sparkling clean again. For an even better clean, brush them softly with an unused toothbrush afterward to remove any debris, as well.
Use ketchup:
That’s right: your favorite condiment just so happens to be an effective jewelry cleaner, too. Thanks to ketchup’s acidity—mostly from the vinegar in its recipe—it can take the tarnish right off of your favorite gems and precious metals.
Make a baking soda paste:
That box of baking soda in your cabinet can do more than just keep your fridge smelling fresh. Using a mixture of baking soda and water, create a paste and rub it on the tarnished areas of your jewelry using a soft brush or cloth. After a minute or so, simply rinse the piece and voila! It will look like new once again.
Make the most of your jewelry box by giving your prized pieces new life with a thorough cleaning. Whether they’re tarnished, scratched, or simply looking dull after years sitting untouched in your jewelry box, these simple and effective natural jewelry cleaning techniques can refresh all of your favorite items in no time.
Have you tried cleaning your jewelry with natural ingredients?
What worked best for you?
Share your thoughts and comments with us.
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