The simple answer is that buying pre-owned earrings can be perfectly safe if you take the necessary precautions to clean and sanitize them properly.
Here are our ten tips for cleaning pre-owned earrings.
1. Inspect the earrings:
Before cleaning, carefully examine the earrings for any damage such as missing stones, loose parts, or signs of wear.
Ensure that the earring backs are intact and in good condition.
2. Clean with soap and water:
Use a mild soap (such as dish soap) and warm water to create a cleaning solution.
Dip a soft-bristled brush or cloth into the solution and gently scrub the earrings, focusing on areas where dirt or grime may be trapped.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the earrings.
Image: WikiHow
3. Rinse thoroughly:
After cleaning, rinse the earrings under running water to remove any soap residue.
Ensure that all traces of soap are washed away to prevent skin irritation when wearing the earrings.
4. Disinfect with alcohol:
To disinfect the earrings, soak a cotton ball or pad in rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) and wipe down the earrings thoroughly.
Pay particular attention to the posts and earring backs, as these areas can hide bacteria.
5. Use hydrogen peroxide:
Alternatively, you can soak the earrings in hydrogen peroxide for a few minutes to disinfect them.
Hydrogen peroxide is a gentle disinfectant that can help kill bacteria and viruses.
Image: Beadnova
6. Boil the earrings:
If the earrings are made of metal, glass, or other materials that can withstand heat, you can boil them in water for a few minutes to sterilize them.
Allow the earrings to cool before handling them.
7. Avoid harsh chemicals:
Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners that could damage the earrings.
Stick to mild soap, alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide for cleaning and disinfecting.
8. Clean earring backs:
The earring backs can harbor bacteria and dirt, so it's important to clean them as well.
Use a cotton swab soaked in alcohol to clean the earring backs thoroughly.
9. Use a jewellery cleaning cloth:
After cleaning and disinfecting, use a jewellery cleaning cloth to polish the earrings and remove any remaining residue.
This will help restore the shine to the earrings.
10. Store properly:
Store the earrings in a clean, dry place away from other jewellery to prevent contamination.
Consider using a jewellery box or pouch to protect the earrings from dust and dirt.
Following these tips can help ensure that your pre-owned earrings are clean, sanitized, and safe to wear.
If you are in the market for a beautiful pair of second-hand earrings check our earrings category at RetroGold.
