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How to Sanitize Earrings Properly: What Every Jewelry Lover Should Know

by CausalFunnel Inc

Knowing how to sanitize earrings is essential for jewelry lovers and this is for many reasons. Clean earrings not only look better, but they also help prevent skin irritation and infections. 

Whether your earrings are new, used, gold, or silver, proper cleaning is a must. This guide will walk you through simple ways to clean your earrings at home.

how-to-sanitize-earrings-properly

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Why Cleaning Your Earrings Matters

Earrings stay in contact with your skin for hours on a daily basis, and your skin daily and can collect dirt, oils, sweat, makeup, and bacteria. This build-up can lead to redness, itchiness, or even infections. Therefore, cleaning your earrings regularly helps keep your ears healthy and your jewelry looking great. If you want to know how to sanitize earrings effectively, read on. 

How to Sanitize Earrings at Home: Step-by-Step

1. Prepare a Warm Soapy Solution

The first step to “how to sanitize earrings at home” is to use a small bowl of warm (not hot) water and a few drops of mild soap. Soak your earrings for 10–20 minutes to loosen dirt and grime.

2. Gently Brush the Details

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the front, back, and post. Be especially gentle if the earrings have stones or are gold-plated.

3. Rinse with Water

After brushing, rinse the earrings with clean water. Always plug the sink drain or use a strainer to prevent  smaller pieces from accidentally falling down the drain.

4. Disinfect the Metal

Dip a cotton swab in a small amount of rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide and wipe down the post and back of the earring. Let them air dry completely.

5. Dry with a Soft Cloth

Use a lint-free cloth to pat dry the earrings. Allow them to fully air dry before wearing them again or storing them away.

How to Sanitize New Earrings

If you're wondering why and how to sanitize new earrings, know that new earrings should always be cleaned before wearing, even if they look clean. Use the same soap and water method, then wipe down with alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to remove any residue from packaging or handling.

How to Sanitize Gold and Sterling Silver Earrings

Being precious metals, gold and sterling silver need special care. Follow these steps: 

  • Gold: Soak for 10 minutes in warm soapy water. Avoid harsh brushing. Rinse and dry.
  • Sterling silver: Same method as above. Use a baking soda and water paste if tarnished. Rinse well and polish with a soft cloth.

Note: If your earrings contain both metal and stones, be extra careful while cleaning the settings, so they don’t come off.

How to Sanitize Earrings Without Alcohol

If you don’t want to use rubbing alcohol, you can also use these alternatives:

  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Antibacterial soap
  • Jewelry cleaning wipes made for sensitive ears

These options clean and disinfect while being gentle on the skin.

Cleaning Secondhand or Thrifted Earrings

If you've purchased used earrings from a thrift store, or if you ever share your earrings with someone else, sanitize them fully before wearing them.

Here’s what to do:

  • Soak in soapy water
  • Disinfect with alcohol or hydrogen peroxide
  • Use a soft brush to remove any remaining build-up
  • Air dry fully before use

Note: Cleaning pre-owned jewelry is important for hygiene purposes.

How Often Should You Sanitize Earrings?

  • Daily wear: Clean at least once a week

  • New or secondhand: Clean before wearing

  • Occasional use: Clean after each use

Note: Regular cleaning helps extend the life of your earrings and keeps your ears safe from infections.

Tips for Safe Jewelry Storage

  • Store clean earrings in a soft-lined jewelry box
  • Keep separate compartments to avoid scratching
  • Always dry cleaned earrings fully before storing them
  • Avoid storing near moisture or in bathrooms

Recommended Reads

Top Earrings to Try from bubs & sass

Treat yourself to a new pair of earrings from bubs & sass.

All earrings from bubs & sass are crafted with style and comfort in mind. They’re easy to sanitize and great for sensitive ears. You can explore the full earring collection to take your pick. 

Final Care Checklist

  • Wash hands before handling earrings, whether you’re about to wear them, remove them, or even cleaning them
  • Clean ears regularly to avoid transfer of oils and dirt
  • Sanitize after each use, especially for sensitive ears
  • Store earrings in dry, soft-lined cases
  • Use alcohol, peroxide, or soap-based cleaning methods depending on the material

Conclusion

Learning how to sanitize earrings the right way helps keep your ears healthy and your jewelry shining for a long time. Whether you wear earrings daily or only on special occasions, regular cleaning should be an unquestionable part of your care routine.

For beautiful earrings that are easy to care for, browse the latest collections at bubs & sass. Our products are not only stylish but also made to last, with comfort and safety in mind.

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