Artificial jewellery is a stylish and budget-friendly way to add sparkle to your wardrobe. Whether it’s a pair of statement earrings or a favourite necklace, imitation jewellery often looks just as good as the real thing until it starts to lose its shine or tarnish.
Over time, exposure to moisture, sweat, perfume, and even air can dull the appearance of artificial jewellery. But the good news?
You don’t need expensive cleaners or professional services to bring your favourite pieces back to life.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to clean artificial jewellery at home using safe, effective, and affordable methods with ingredients you already have in your kitchen.
Why Does Artificial Jewellery Tarnish?
Artificial (also called costume or imitation) jewellery is usually made of non-precious metals like copper, brass, or alloys. These materials often have a thin coating of gold, silver, or paint. Unlike pure gold or sterling silver, these coatings wear off over time, causing:
- Discoloration
- Black or green tarnish
- Loss of shine
- Staining on skin
Factors like sweat, perfume, water, and humidity accelerate the tarnishing process. But with proper care and cleaning, you can extend the life and look of your jewellery.
How to Clean Artificial Jewellery at Home: Step-by-Step
Here are some of the most trusted DIY methods to clean artificial jewellery without damaging the material:
1. Use Baking Soda and Lemon Juice
Best for: Tarnished pieces with visible dark spots.
How to do it:
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Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with a few drops of lemon juice to make a thick paste.
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Apply the paste gently on the jewellery using a soft toothbrush or cotton swab.
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Scrub lightly, especially in grooves and corners.
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Rinse with cold water and pat dry with a soft towel.
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Leave it to air-dry fully before storing.
Caution: Avoid this method on painted or stone-studded jewellery, as the acidity might damage the surface.
2. Use Mild Soap and Warm Water
Best for: Regular maintenance of less tarnished jewellery.
How to do it:
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Mix a few drops of dishwashing liquid or baby shampoo with warm water.
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Soak the jewellery for 3–5 minutes.
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Use a soft brush or cloth to clean the surface gently.
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Rinse with clean water and wipe dry.
This method is gentle and safe for most types of artificial jewellery great for monthly upkeep.
3. Try White Vinegar and Salt
Best for: Heavy tarnish and oxidized spots.
How to do it:
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Mix half a cup of white vinegar with 1 tablespoon of salt.
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Dip a cotton ball or soft cloth in the solution.
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Rub gently over the jewellery.
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Rinse well with water and dry completely.
Note: Don’t soak artificial jewellery in vinegar for long just wipe and rinse.
4. Use Toothpaste for Shine Restoration
Best for: Restoring shine on faded metal surfaces.
How to do it:
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Take a pea-sized amount of non-gel white toothpaste (not the whitening kind).
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Apply it gently to the jewellery with a brush or fingers.
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Rub in circular motions for 1–2 minutes.
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Rinse thoroughly and dry with a microfiber cloth.
This works particularly well for chains, rings, and earrings with no stones.
5. Use Baby Wipes or Makeup Remover Wipes
Best for: Quick cleaning of lightly soiled jewellery.
How to do it:
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Simply wipe the surface of your jewellery with a baby wipe or alcohol-free makeup remover wipe.
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Dry immediately to avoid moisture build-up.
Great for on-the-go cleaning or travel-friendly jewellery maintenance.
Pro Tips to Prevent Tarnishing of Artificial Jewellery
Cleaning helps, but prevention is better. Follow these care tips to keep your artificial jewellery looking new:
Storage Matters:
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Always store jewellery in airtight containers or zip-lock bags.
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Use anti-tarnish strips or silica gel packets in your jewellery box.
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Keep pieces separated to avoid scratching and tangling.
Avoid Contact with:
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Water (especially salty or chlorinated)
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Perfumes, lotions, and deodorants
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Sweat (remove before exercising)
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Hair sprays and makeup
Follow the “Last On, First Off” Rule:
Wear your artificial jewellery after applying makeup, perfume, and creams and remove it before undressing or bathing.
FAQs About Cleaning Artificial Jewellery
Q1: Can I use alcohol or sanitizer to clean artificial jewellery?
A: Use with caution. Alcohol can be too harsh and may strip off plating or damage glued stones.
Q2: Can I soak artificial jewellery in water?
A: Only if you're using mild soap and warm water for a few minutes. Avoid long soaks, especially for painted or beaded pieces.
Q3: Is it safe to clean artificial jewellery with lemon juice directly?
A: Lemon juice is acidic and should be diluted or mixed with other ingredients. Avoid using it directly on delicate or painted items.
Q4: How often should I clean artificial jewellery?
A: Once every 1–2 months, or whenever you notice tarnish or dullness.
Final Thoughts
Artificial jewellery is beautiful, affordable, and a joy to wear, but it does require some care to keep it looking new.
The next time you notice your favourite earrings losing their shine or your necklace looking dull, just head to your kitchen and try one of these home remedies to clean imitation jewellery.
With regular cleaning and smart storage, you can prolong the life of your artificial jewellery and keep it gleaming for years.
Also read: From Runway to Reality: The Must-Have Statement Jewellery
