How to Clean Costume Jewelry

Costume jewelry is an outward expression of your personality. These unique, bold pieces require extra care, but with a little love, they'll withstand the test of time. They may even be in the hands of your grandchildren someday!

When it comes to cleaning costume jewelry, regular jewelry cleaners, vinegar and baking soda are too harsh for delicate costume jewelry. Avoid anything too acidic. Instead, try these simple tricks with common household items to keep your costume jewelry sparkling and shining.

1. Tooth Brush
   The bristles of a soft tooth brush will help scrub off any residue and get into small chain links and openings. Just keep that spare freebie from the dentist on hand. You won’t want to brush up with this one tonight.
   
   
2. Baby Shampoo
   Add equal parts of baby shampoo and water into a small bowl (just a drop will do!). Using a toothbrush or Q-tip, press the mixture into crevices to remove any dirt. Rinse quickly with cool water, and dry with a soft hand towel. Use a hairdryer set on cool to make sure it's completely dry. This gentle mixture is perfect for even your most delicate pieces! 
   
   
3. Toothpaste
   Toothpaste works surprisingly well to clean costume jewelry! To use, coat the jewelry piece with a thin coat of toothpaste and give it a quick brush. The gritty texture of the toothpaste helps remove any stubborn dirt. Rinse the jewelry with cool water. Dry with a soft hand towel first, completing the drying process with a hairdryer set on cool. 
   
   
4. Dish Soap
   Add a few drops of dish soap to a bowl of water. Mix well. Allow your jewelry to soak for about thirty minutes, then brush gently with a toothbrush. If necessary, soak again to remove more dirt. Dry with a soft hand towel. Use a hairdryer set on cool to completely dry.

Regular cleaning of jewelry will prevent deep tarnishing and keep those gems lasting their longest and shining their best.

Added Bonus
Organize your jewelry to make those early mornings go a little easier AND extend the life of your jewelry. When organizing, hang necklaces instead of piling them up. The same applies to metal pieces: avoid stacking them! 

Now, shine on with your bad selves!