How to Clean Sterling Silver Jewellery Without Damaging It

October 29, 2026

Because the little things we love deserve looking after.

There's always that one necklace.

The one you reach for without thinking. The tiny silver pendant you were given for your birthday. The little keepsake that reminds you of someone, somewhere or a moment you never want to forget.

And then, one day, you notice it doesn't sparkle quite like it used to.

Perhaps the silver looks a little dull. Perhaps the chain has started to darken.

The good news?

It doesn't necessarily mean there's anything wrong with your jewellery.

Sterling silver naturally tarnishes over time, and with a little gentle care, many pieces can be brought back to their beautiful shine.

Here's how to clean your sterling silver jewellery safely at home, what to avoid and how to keep your favourite pieces looking lovely for longer.

Why Does Sterling Silver Tarnish?

First, a little science.

Sterling silver is made from 92.5% pure silver, combined with 7.5% other metals, usually including copper.

Pure silver is relatively soft, so adding other metals makes it stronger and more practical for jewellery.

You might recognise the number 925 stamped on your jewellery. This refers to its silver content.

Over time, sterling silver reacts with sulphur-containing substances in the air and its surroundings, forming a darker layer on the surface.

This is called tarnish.

Humidity, perspiration, certain skincare products and environmental conditions can all contribute to the process.

And here's something worth remembering:

Tarnishing doesn't mean your sterling silver jewellery is poor quality or fake.

It's a natural characteristic of the metal.

Even beautiful, carefully made sterling silver jewellery can tarnish.

How to Clean Sterling Silver Jewellery at Home

For plain, uncoated sterling silver jewellery without gemstones, a gentle clean is often all that's needed to remove everyday dirt and restore a little shine.

What You'll Need

A small bowl of lukewarm water
A few drops of mild washing-up liquid
A soft, lint-free cloth
A separate clean, dry cloth

Step 1: Prepare Some Gentle Soapy Water

Add a few drops of mild washing-up liquid to a small bowl of lukewarm water.

Avoid hot water and strong household cleaning products.

You don't need anything particularly complicated.

Step 2: Clean Your Jewellery Gently

For suitable plain sterling silver pieces, briefly dip the jewellery into the soapy water and gently wipe away dirt using a soft cloth.

Pay particular attention to areas where oils and everyday residue can build up.

If you're cleaning a delicate necklace, support the chain carefully rather than pulling or tugging at it.

Never scrub aggressively.

Step 3: Rinse Carefully

Rinse the jewellery briefly with clean, lukewarm water to remove any soap.

Use a bowl rather than an open sink, so tiny pendants or chains can't accidentally disappear down the drain.

Step 4: Dry Thoroughly

Pat your jewellery dry with a clean, soft cloth.

Make sure moisture hasn't been trapped around clasps, chain links or pendant details.

Allow the piece to dry completely before storing it.

Important: This method is for suitable, plain, uncoated sterling silver. Jewellery containing gemstones, pearls, adhesives, intentional darkened details or plated finishes may need different care. If you're unsure about a piece, avoid immersion and ask a professional jeweller.

How to Remove Tarnish from Sterling Silver

Sometimes a simple wash isn't enough.

If your silver has developed a darker surface, a specialist sterling silver polishing cloth may help.

These cloths are designed to gently remove tarnish and restore shine.

For suitable plain sterling silver:

Make sure the jewellery is clean and completely dry.
Gently rub accessible silver surfaces with a dedicated silver polishing cloth.
Avoid applying excessive pressure to delicate chains or fittings.
Stop once the desired shine has returned.

Remember that polishing removes a tiny amount of surface material, so it shouldn't be excessive.

For heavily tarnished, intricate or especially sentimental pieces, professional cleaning is often the safest option.

Should You Clean Silver Jewellery with Baking Soda?

You've probably seen the viral cleaning trick.

A bowl of aluminium foil, baking soda and hot water, with a tarnished necklace dropped inside.

It can remove tarnish from some silver objects through a chemical reaction.

But is it a good idea for your favourite delicate necklace?

We wouldn't recommend it as an everyday jewellery-cleaning method.

It may affect decorative oxidation, certain finishes, gemstones or other components. Hot water and unsuitable cleaning solutions can also create unnecessary risks.

The same goes for toothpaste.

Although sometimes suggested as a homemade silver cleaner, toothpaste can contain abrasive ingredients that may scratch softer surfaces.

And harsh silver dips aren't suitable for every type of jewellery either.

When something has sentimental value, gentle care is usually worth the extra time.

How to Clean a Sterling Silver Necklace Without Tangling It

Fine silver chains need a particularly light touch.

They're beautiful because they're delicate, but that also means they deserve a little extra care.

Before cleaning, lay your necklace flat and gently check for any knots.

If it's tangled, don't pull both ends.

Instead, loosen the knot carefully on a soft, flat surface.

For suitable plain sterling silver necklaces, wipe the chain gently with a soft cloth, supporting it as you go.

Avoid hanging a wet chain by its clasp or pulling it through a tightly folded polishing cloth.

Once completely dry, fasten the clasp and store your necklace separately.

It's a tiny habit that can save a lot of frustration later.

What About Silver Jewellery with Gemstones?

This is where it's important to be a little more careful.

At Symbol & Stone, we love natural gemstones.

Amethyst with its beautiful violet tones. Labradorite with its unexpected flashes of blue. Tiny gemstone hearts, each with their own natural character.

But not every gemstone should be cleaned in the same way.

Some stones are more porous, softer or more sensitive to moisture, heat and chemicals than others.

If your silver necklace contains a gemstone:

Avoid soaking the entire piece unless its care instructions specifically allow it.
Use a soft, dry or very slightly damp cloth for suitable surfaces.
Avoid harsh silver cleaners, chemical dips and abrasive polishing.
Don't use ultrasonic cleaners unless a qualified professional confirms they are safe for that particular piece.
Keep moisture away from settings or areas that may contain adhesive.

For more delicate or unfamiliar stones, professional advice is the safest choice.

The best cleaning method depends on the whole piece of jewellery, not just the silver.

Can You Shower with Sterling Silver Jewellery?

Sterling silver can come into contact with water, but that doesn't mean it's a good idea to shower in your favourite necklace every day.

Soap, shampoo and other bathroom products can leave residue.

Repeated moisture exposure may also affect finishes, gemstone settings and the appearance of the jewellery over time.

We recommend removing your jewellery before showering, swimming or bathing.

Especially if it's a delicate piece you want to treasure for years.

A little care today can make a difference tomorrow.

How to Stop Sterling Silver Jewellery from Tarnishing

You can't necessarily stop tarnish forever, but you can help slow it down.

A few simple habits are surprisingly useful.

1. Store Your Jewellery Somewhere Dry

Moisture can contribute to tarnishing.

Keep silver jewellery in a dry jewellery box, suitable anti-tarnish pouch or protective storage bag when it's not being worn.

2. Keep Necklaces Separate

Fine chains can become tangled or scratched when stored together.

Give your favourite pieces a little space.

3. Put Jewellery On Last

Apply perfume, moisturiser and hairspray before putting on your jewellery.

Allow products to dry first.

4. Take It Off for Swimming and Exercise

Chlorinated water, salt water and perspiration can affect the appearance of jewellery.

Removing delicate pieces before swimming or exercise is a sensible precaution.

5. Give It a Gentle Wipe

After wearing your jewellery, use a soft, dry cloth to remove surface oils and moisture.

It only takes a few seconds.

Does Sterling Silver Turn Black?

Yes, sterling silver can develop a dark grey or black appearance when tarnish builds up.

This is usually a surface reaction rather than a sign that the silver itself has been ruined.

In many cases, tarnish can be removed with appropriate cleaning or professional care.

However, some jewellery has intentionally darkened areas designed to highlight decorative details.

These should not be polished away.

If a pendant has an antique-style finish or carefully darkened grooves, always check its care instructions before attempting to remove the colour.

How Often Should You Clean Sterling Silver Jewellery?

There's no need to clean your jewellery constantly.

For regularly worn pieces, a gentle wipe after use and occasional cleaning when needed may be enough.

Silver polishing should be reserved for when tarnish appears, rather than becoming a daily routine.

Pay attention to your jewellery.

If it's starting to look a little dull, it might just need some gentle attention.

If it's still looking lovely, there's no reason to overdo it.

A Little Care for Things Worth Keeping

There's something rather lovely about the things we choose to keep.

A tiny clover that reminds you of a friend.

A silver butterfly bought to mark a new beginning.

An ammonite necklace inspired by creatures that lived in ancient seas.

They're small objects, but sometimes they hold enormous meaning.

And perhaps that's why we look after them.

Not simply because they're made from precious metal.

But because of the stories attached to them.

At Symbol & Stone, our jewellery is inspired by nature, symbolism and the little things that make life meaningful.

And we believe those little things deserve to be treasured.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the safest way to clean sterling silver jewellery?

For suitable plain, uncoated sterling silver, gently cleaning with mild soapy water and a soft cloth is a good starting point. Dry thoroughly afterwards. Gemstones, plated finishes and decorative oxidation need more specific care.

Can I use toothpaste to clean silver jewellery?

It's best to avoid toothpaste. Some formulas contain abrasive particles that may scratch jewellery surfaces.

Why does my sterling silver necklace tarnish so quickly?

Humidity, perspiration, cosmetic products and exposure to sulphur-containing substances can accelerate tarnishing. How jewellery is worn and stored also makes a difference.

Can tarnished sterling silver become shiny again?

Often, yes. A suitable silver polishing cloth or professional cleaning can remove surface tarnish. However, some finishes and gemstones require special care.

Is it safe to use a silver polishing cloth on gemstones?

Avoid rubbing gemstones with chemically treated silver-polishing cloths unless the manufacturer specifically confirms compatibility. Use appropriate gemstone care methods instead.

Can I clean gold vermeil jewellery in the same way as sterling silver?

No. Gold vermeil has a gold coating over a silver base, and abrasive polishing may wear away that finish. Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth and follow the specific care instructions for plated jewellery.