How to Clean Stainless Steel Jewelry

The Ultimate Guide to Keeping Stainless Steel Jewelry Looking New

Stainless steel jewelry is loved for its strength, shine, and resistance to tarnish—but that doesn’t mean it never needs cleaning. From daily wear to exposure to lotions, sweat, and the elements, your jewelry can still collect buildup that dulls its brilliance. Knowing how to clean stainless steel jewelry properly will help it last longer, look better, and continue impressing your customers or followers with that like-new shine.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through safe, effective methods to clean stainless steel jewelry, along with what to avoid and how to maintain your pieces long-term.

Why Stainless Steel Jewelry Needs Cleaning

Stainless steel is incredibly durable and resistant to rust, corrosion, and tarnishing—but it’s not immune to buildup. Over time, stainless steel jewelry can lose its luster due to:

• Skin oils, sweat, and body chemistry

• Exposure to makeup, perfume, or sunscreen
  

• Dust, dirt, or environmental particles
  

• Chlorine, saltwater, and hard water minerals
  
  

While stainless steel doesn’t oxidize like silver, it can still appear dull or develop a surface film that diminishes shine. Regular cleaning removes grime, restores shine, and helps prevent pitting or staining over time. It's always a good idea to keep a microfiber polishing cloth on hand!

Basic Soap & Water Method

For everyday grime and sweat buildup, a simple soap and water cleaning method is often all you need.

What You'll Need

• A small bowl of warm water
  

• A few drops of mild dish soap (unscented preferred)
  

• A soft-bristled toothbrush
  

• A clean microfiber cloth or soft towel
  
  

Cleaning Instructions

1. Mix your solution: Add 2–3 drops of dish soap to the bowl of warm water.
   

2. Soak the jewelry: Let the piece sit in the solution for 3–5 minutes.
   

3. Gently scrub: Use the toothbrush to clean tight crevices, chains, and under settings.
   

4. Rinse thoroughly: Use a second bowl of clean water or hold under running water.
   

5. Dry & polish: Pat dry with a lint-free cloth and gently buff to restore shine.
   
   

This method is safe for all-stainless pieces and most stainless with basic embellishments. Be cautious with stones or plating—avoid soaking if you're unsure about the materials.

Baking Soda & Gentle Abrasives

Sometimes soap and water isn’t quite enough—especially if your jewelry has been neglected or exposed to heavy grime. For deeper cleaning, baking soda is a safe, non-toxic option.

How to Use Baking Soda to Clean Stainless Steel

• Mix 2 parts baking soda with 1 part water to create a thick paste.
  

• Apply the paste gently using your fingers or a soft toothbrush.
  

• Rub in circular motions to lift grime without scratching the surface.
  

• Rinse thoroughly and dry with a microfiber cloth.
  

Avoid baking soda on plated pieces or any jewelry with soft or porous stones. While stainless steel is tough, the surrounding components might not be.

Using Ultrasonic Cleaners Safely

Ultrasonic cleaners are devices that use high-frequency sound waves to remove dirt from jewelry. They're incredibly effective for stainless steel—but only when used correctly.

When It’s Safe to Use Ultrasonic Cleaning

• For solid stainless steel pieces like chains, rings, or bracelets with no plating or gemstones
  

• For heavily soiled pieces where manual scrubbing is difficult
  

• For jewelry without glued components, which may loosen under vibration
  
  

When to Avoid

• On pieces with gold plating or rose gold plating, which may fade or peel
  

• On jewelry with pearls, opals, or soft stones
  

• If the piece contains glued or set stones, as the vibration can dislodge them
  

Always follow the cleaner’s instructions, use the jewelry basket insert, and don’t over-soak.

Avoid These Harsh Methods & Chemicals

While stainless steel is durable, using the wrong cleaning products can still damage it—or surrounding components like stones or plating.

What to Avoid

• Bleach, ammonia, or vinegar: These are too harsh and can cause pitting
  

• Toothpaste: While often suggested, it’s too abrasive for jewelry finishes
  

• Steel wool or scouring pads: Can scratch and dull the surface
  

• Alcohol-based or acetone cleaners: May dry out or degrade bonded materials or seals
  

If you're unsure, always stick to soap, water, and a soft cloth.

Everyday Maintenance & Storage Tips

Keeping your stainless steel jewelry clean isn’t just about washing—it’s about how you wear and store it, too.

Quick Daily Maintenance

• Wipe down jewelry after wearing with a soft cloth to remove sweat and oil
  

• Put jewelry on last after applying lotion, perfume, or hairspray
  

• Remove jewelry before swimming, exercising, or showering—even stainless steel
  
  

Proper Storage

• Use individual soft pouches or compartments in a jewelry box
  

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or humidity
  

• Avoid storing with other metal types to reduce the chance of scratching
  
  

Keep Stainless Steel Jewelry Looking Like New

Stainless steel jewelry is an ideal choice for retailers and buyers alike because it balances style, strength, and affordability. But like all jewelry, it performs best with a little regular care.

To recap:

• Use soap and water for routine cleaning
  

• Apply baking soda paste for deeper buildup
  

• Use ultrasonic cleaners cautiously on solid pieces
  

• Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials
  

• Practice daily maintenance and proper storage
  
  

By following these simple techniques, you’ll extend the lifespan and shine of your stainless steel jewelry—whether you're maintaining your own pieces or offering care guidance to customers.