Do you own a sterling silver ring and find yourself unsure of what to do when it comes to cleaning it? Despite it's quality of 925 silver rings they are prone to tarnishing so its best to keep on maintaining it through regular cleaning. As a jewellery shop owner, I always get asked how to properly clean sterling silver rings at home as they aren't simply worth the time or money to do it professionally. While professional cleaning is always an option, knowing how to care for your silver jewellery yourself can save you time and money In this guide, I’ll share the best tips and techniques for cleaning your sterling silver ring.
Why Does Sterling Silver Tarnish?
Sterling silver is composed of 92.5% pure silver, with the remaining 7.5% usually being copper. This combination is necessary as its what enhances the metal's durability but also makes it prone to tarnishing. Tarnish occurs when there is a chemical reaction with silver reacting with sulfur or hydrogen sulfide in the air, which results in a dull, grey, or black layer on the surface of your ring. Factors like humidity, air pollution, and exposure to cosmetics or household chemicals can accelerate this process. Tarnishing is inevitable, so don’t worry too much—regular cleaning and care can easily restore the shine to your sterling silver jewellery.
How to Clean Your Sterling Silver Ring at Home
Cleaning your sterling silver ring at home is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy tools or harsh chemicals. Here are some tried-and-true methods you can use to bring back its sparkle.
1. Gentle Soap and Warm Water Solution
One of the safest and most effective ways to clean your sterling silver ring is with a simple soap and water solution. It’s perfect for regular maintenance and works well on lightly tarnished pieces.
Steps:
- Prepare the Solution: Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Avoid using antibacterial or dish soap with fragrance as they can leave residues that dull the shine.
- Soak the Ring: Place your ring in the soapy water and let it soak for about 5-10 minutes. This will help loosen dirt, oils, and any light tarnish.
- Scrub Gently: Using a soft bristle brush and gently scrub the ring. The bristles will help lift away any stubborn spots without scratching the silver. I personally love using old makeup brushes as they are much softer then other brushes.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the ring under warm running water to wash away any soap residue. Make sure to rinse well to prevent any soapy film from dulling the silver.
- Dry Carefully: Pat the ring dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid using paper towels, as they can scratch the surface.
This method is gentle enough to be used frequently and is ideal for keeping your ring looking fresh and clean with minimal effort.
2. Silver Polishing Cloth: The Quick and Effective Fix
A silver polishing cloth is a must-have for anyone who owns sterling silver jewellery. These cloths are treated with special chemicals designed to remove tarnish and restore shine without scratching the metal. I recommend having a separate cloth for jewellery do not use a cloth you may use to clean household appliances as they will be much dirtier.
How to Use a Polishing Cloth:
- Wipe in Straight Lines: Gently rub the ring with the cloth, using straight back-and-forth motions. Avoid rubbing in circles, as this can cause micro-scratches.
- Focus on Tarnished Areas: Concentrate on the tarnished areas of the ring, but be careful not to press too hard. The cloth's treatment will lift tarnish with minimal effort.
- Do Not Wash the Cloth: Over time, the cloth will darken as it absorbs tarnish, but don’t wash it. Washing removes the cloth’s special treatment, reducing its effectiveness.
This method is perfect for quick touch-ups and maintaining your ring’s shine between more intensive cleanings.
3. Baking Soda and Water Paste for Heavy Tarnish
For sterling silver rings that have developed significant tarnish, a baking soda paste is an effective, at-home solution. Baking soda is mildly abrasive, which helps lift stubborn tarnish without damaging the silver when used correctly.
Steps:
- Make the Paste: Mix three parts baking soda with one part water to create a thick, spreadable paste.
- Apply to the Ring: Use a soft cloth or your fingers to apply the paste to the tarnished areas of the ring. Rub gently in straight lines, avoiding excessive pressure.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Once the tarnish is gone, rinse the ring under warm water to remove all traces of the paste.
- Dry and Buff: Pat dry with a soft cloth, and buff gently to restore shine.
Caution: Use this method only when the first two options don't work. Baking soda is abrasive, and overuse can scratch or dull the finish of your ring.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Sterling Silver Rings
While cleaning your sterling silver ring at home is generally safe, there are some things to avoid to keep your jewellery in the best possible condition.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Sterling silver is sensitive to chemicals like bleach, ammonia, and even some commercial jewellery cleaners that aren’t specifically formulated for silver. These substances will cause discoloration and permanent damage.
Steer Clear of Abrasive Materials
Never use paper towels, tissues, or rough cloths when cleaning your sterling silver ring. These materials can leave scratches on the surface, making your ring look dull over time. Always opt for a soft, lint-free cloth to dry and buff your jewellery.
Don’t Use Toothpaste
We have all heard the magic toothpaste can do from grout to car headlights. But in this case, it’s actually too abrasive for jewellery. It can leave fine scratches that diminish the ring’s shine. Stick with gentler alternatives like baking soda paste or a professional silver polish.
How to Prevent Tarnish and Keep Your Sterling Silver Ring Shiny
Cleaning your sterling silver ring regularly will keep it looking beautiful, but there are also some preventative measures you can take to minimize tarnish and keep your ring in top condition.
Proper Storage is Key
Store your sterling silver ring in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and humidity. Keeping it in an airtight container or a jewellery box lined with anti-tarnish fabric can greatly reduce the likelihood of tarnishing.
Wear Your Ring Often
Wearing your sterling silver ring regularly actually helps prevent tarnish! The natural oils in your skin act as a barrier, slowing the tarnishing process. However, remember to remove your ring before swimming, showering, or using household cleaners to prevent exposure to harsh chemicals.
Avoid Contact with Cosmetics and Lotions
Perfumes, lotions, and hair products can all speed up the tarnishing process. To protect your ring, put it on last when getting dressed and remove it before applying any skincare or hair products.
Conclusion
With a little bit of care and attention, keeping your sterling silver ring clean and tarnish-free is easy. Regular cleaning, gentle handling, and proper storage will ensure your ring maintains its beautiful appearance for years to come. Following these tips will help you keep your sterling silver looking as stunning as ever.
At Travel Ring Co, our travel rings are plated with rhodium and gold. This guide only applies to existing 925 jewellery you may own. We have chosen this method because it results in a higher quality ring and accommodates those who are allergic to copper.