Your permanent jewellery is designed to stay on every day, but even welded pieces need a little care to stay shiny and beautiful. Here is a simple guide to cleaning and maintaining your bracelet, anklet, necklace or ring so it lasts for years without losing its sparkle.
Why cleaning matters
Even though you never take it off, your jewellery collects natural oils, lotions, perfumes and sweat. Regular cleaning keeps your chain looking bright and prevents tarnish on sterling silver and dull build up on gold chains. It also keeps it hygienic for long term wear.
How often to clean permanent jewellery
For most people, a quick clean every few weeks is enough. If you swim, use perfume daily, or work in a dusty environment, clean your piece more often. A gentle rinse and polish will help prevent dirt from settling into the links.
Simple daily and weekly cleaning tips
- Rinse in warm water: after showering or swimming, give your chain a quick rinse under warm running water to remove soap or chlorine.
- Dry thoroughly: pat dry with a soft towel or microfibre cloth to prevent moisture build up.
- Polish lightly: use a clean, untreated jewellery cloth to buff away fingerprints and restore shine.
- Avoid residue: apply perfumes, lotions and hairspray before putting jewellery on your skin so it stays cleaner for longer.
Deep clean method for silver and gold chains
If your bracelet or anklet needs a deeper clean, you can safely wash it while it’s still on. Follow these steps:
- Prepare warm soapy water: use a bowl of lukewarm water with a small drop of gentle dish soap.
- Use a soft toothbrush: gently brush the chain while it is on your wrist or ankle, taking care not to scratch the links or any charms.
- Rinse thoroughly: hold your wrist under running water until all soap is gone.
- Pat dry: use a towel to dry the skin and chain completely.
This process removes oils and residue that can dull both silver and gold finishes. Avoid soaking your wrist for long periods, as extended moisture can irritate skin.
What to avoid
- Do not use harsh cleaners: chemical dips and abrasive creams can damage precious metals and irritate skin.
- Skip toothpaste or baking soda: they are too abrasive for delicate chain links.
- Avoid bleach and chlorine: both can cause discolouration and weakening of silver and gold chains.
- Do not pull or twist: while cleaning, handle your jewellery gently to avoid stressing any welds.
Aftercare and polishing
To keep your piece bright between cleans, use a soft polishing cloth designed for fine jewellery. For silver, a treated anti-tarnish cloth works best. For gold, any soft cloth will restore its warm glow. If your piece includes charms or gemstones, wipe around them gently with a damp cloth and avoid soaking.
Permanent jewellery naturally moves with your body, which helps prevent heavy tarnish, but regular polishing keeps it looking like new. You can buy a small cloth from our studio or during your next appointment.
Common cleaning questions
Can I shower or swim with my permanent jewellery on?
Yes. Water will not harm your sterling silver or gold chains. Just rinse after swimming in chlorinated pools and dry thoroughly.
What if my silver has gone dark?
That is natural tarnish. Use a polishing cloth to bring back the shine. For stubborn tarnish, book a professional clean with us.
Can I use an ultrasonic cleaner?
No. Keep your arm or ankle out of ultrasonic machines as they are designed for loose jewellery. A gentle hand clean is safest.
Need a professional clean?
Your welded bracelet looking dull? Bring it to our studio for a professional polish. Book on our Permanent Jewellery page or get in touch to arrange a quick clean at our Llanymynech or Oswestry locations. We also serve Shrewsbury, Welshpool, Telford and surrounding areas.
With just a few minutes of gentle care, your permanent jewellery will stay bright and beautiful for years. A quick rinse, polish and a little attention keeps every welded chain shining like the day it was fitted.
