How to clean diamond earrings

When you purchase a brand-new pair of shiny diamond earrings, you will want to preserve them forever! However, although this is likely to be the most thorough method, having earrings professionally cleaned on a regular basis can be quite costly, whereas cleaning your diamond earrings at home is not only cost-effective, but is also a good way to keep your jewellery clean and hygienic. 

In our previous guide, we discussed the best ways in which to clean your engagement rings – however in this post, we talk about everything you need to know about cleaning diamond earrings. 

Why should I clean my earrings

  • Protect them from harmful bacteria: if you’ve ever wondered, ‘why do my earrings smell?’, this could indicate a build-up of bacteria, which could potentially lead to infection. It is important to clean your earrings regularly, to prevent discomfort and bacteria build-up.
  • Prolong their sparkle: dirt can easily build-up time, seriously affecting your earrings’ shine. Keeping to a regular cleaning schedule is the perfect way to maintain that new-bought shine!

How do I clean my diamond earrings at home?

Although cleaning your earrings at home may seem relatively simple, you must follow this method carefully – as you could tarnish your diamond earrings by accident. Steer clear from harsh chemicals as they could damage the natural stone. All you will need to clean your diamond earrings at home is:

  • A mild liquid soap (we recommend a baby shampoo)
  • Lukewarm water
  • A bowl 
  • A soft bristle brush 

Step 1: In your bowl, create a soapy solution with your liquid soap and lukewarm water. Ensure the water is not hot, as this could tarnish your jewellery. 

Step 2: Allow your earrings to soak in the bowl for 5-10 minutes.

Step 3: Gently scrub your earrings with your soft-bristled brush, removing all the dirt in the crevices. 

Step 4: Rinse your earrings with water, removing all suds. Then, gently pat dry. 

How to sterilise my earrings

Sterilising your earrings is different to cleaning them - this process is used to disinfect your jewellery. You would need to sterilise your jewellery if you are piercing your ears for the first time, for example, or if you are cleaning earrings that you feel have given you an infection. 

To sterilise earrings, you need to follow the steps from above – however, instead of soaking your earrings in warm soapy water, you should soak them in in hydrogen peroxide for five minutes. This will work to remove any built-up bacteria. 

How to sterilise earrings inside the ear

You can also disinfect your earrings whilst they are in your ear - this is especially handy if you just have got your ears freshly pierced and need to wait for your ear to heal. You will need:

  • Cotton bud 
  • Ear cleaning solution 

Step 1: Before you start, it’s important to make sure your hands are clean – wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

Step 2: Next, carefully dip your cotton bud into the ear cleaning solution, then rub the cotton bud onto the piercing. Be sure to pay attention to both the front and the back of your earlobes.

Step 3: After this process, gently rotate the earring in the ear for several turns. 

Step 4: Repeat this process twice a day until the ear has healed. 

Now that you are all clued up on how to keep your earrings sparkling clean, you may want to add a new pair to your jewellery collection. Be sure to browse our sparkling diamond earring collection, where you will find a stunning range. If you are in need of a relaxing day out, then why not visit our store in Birmingham’s prestigious Jewellery Quarter?