How to Care for Costume Jewellery

Though costume jewellery is made from non-precious metals and stones, they do add flair to your outfits.  Because costume jewellery is constructed from less durable materials, you need to know how to take proper care of these items so that they will retain their beauty for a long time.  Water, alcohol-based substances such as perfume, and caustic cleaning solutions are damaging to the  jewellery; in this post, we provide you with valuable information on how to care for your costume jewellery so that they will look at their best for longer.

Costume Jewellery Care

costume jewellery 150x150 How to Care for Costume Jewellery1.     Because the materials used for costume jewellery are not that durable and strong, the best way to keep them looking new and shiny is to wear them only when needed.  Only put them on when you need to look dressed up and take them off as soon as you get home.  Sweat and body oils gradually corrode costume jewellery finish.

2.    Avoid getting your costume jewellery wet.  Remove all costume jewellery before washing dishes or getting into the tub or shower.  Do not wear them if you are going to be swimming or staying in a sauna or Jacuzzi.

3.    If you are going to be handling household cleaning solutions or acidic foods such as lemons, do so with costume jewellery-free hands.  These substances are corrosive.

4.    Make it a habit to put on your costume jewellery only after all your grooming is completely finished.  Perfume, lotions, and hairsprays can discolour your jewellery and make it look dull.  Also, the ingredients in these products adhere to the jewellery and attract dust.

5.    Store your pieces of costume jewellery in a lined jewellery box so that it is exposed as little to the air as possible.  Exposure to air hastens the tarnishing process, causing your jewellery pieces to look stained or dull.

6.    Wipe your costume jewellery with a piece of non-abrasive cloth after taking it off and before storing it.  This will remove any body sweat and oils that can degrade the finish.  Also, it prevents dirt from lodging into cracks and crevices.

7.    Clean your jewellery on a regular basis to keep it looking nice for longer.  However, using traditional jewellery cleaners is not advisable since these chemicals are too strong for costume jewellery.  Instead, soak the jewellery items for five minutes in a weak solution of water and baby shampoo.  Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush and rinse well.  Dry completely before storing for long lasting costume jewellery.