How to clean a diamond ring at home

Whether a well-worn engagement ring or a treasured diamond eternity ring, all jewellery is subject to wear and tear that can leave it looking worn out. Activities like applying makeup and perfume, working in the garden, or using harsh cleaning chemicals can all make your once sparkly jewellery look dull.

Luckily, though, some simple tricks can help reverse this to return your diamond to its best condition. Read our step-by-step guide to how to clean a diamond ring at home, using products you probably already have in the cupboard.

How to clean diamond rings (step-by-step)

Step 1: Check your ring is still in good condition

Firstly, it’s important to check the condition of your ring. Do any of the stones look loose? Are the claws damaged in any way? If so, you should try and refrain from cleaning at home and wait until you can take your ring to a professional jeweller.

Even tiny issues can be exacerbated when you apply cleaning solutions or pressure, so it’s important to ensure these are repaired before getting started. The last thing you want is entire stones becoming dislodged or lost during the cleaning process.

Step 2: Soak your ring in soap and warm water

Once you’re happy that there are no structural defects, make a solution of warm water and a few drops of washing up liquid in a small bowl, cup, or ramekin. Place the ring into the water, ensuring it’s fully submerged, and let it soak for around half an hour.

Step 3: Clean your ring with a soft-bristled toothbrush

After soaking, remove the ring and gently brush it with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Ensure the brush is small enough to get into all the gaps and recesses of your ring but soft enough that it won’t scratch it. It’s also important to use a brush that contains only bristles (with no rubber or plastic elements) to avoid being too harsh on the ring. An old children’s toothbrush can work well for this if you have one.

Step 4: Rinse and dry your ring

Next, simply rinse your ring with clean, warm water. You can repeat the soaking, brushing, and rinsing process if the dirt doesn’t loosen the first time. Finally, finish with a polish using a microfibre or soft cloth. If you wear glasses, the small lens-cleaning cloth in your glasses case works perfectly.

How to keep your diamond ring clean

Of course, the best way to care for your ring is to prevent it from getting dirty or damaged in the first place. Where possible, remove your ring whenever it could be at risk of coming into contact with abrasive or potentially damaging substances.

Remember to put your ring somewhere safe if you’re partaking in any rigorous activity where it may come loose. It might be a good idea to buy a small ring holder or dish for this, and use it as a safe place.

Regular cleaning will also help maintain your diamond ring. A short soak and brush once a month should be enough to stop it from becoming lacklustre over time and negate the need to carry out a full deep clean quite so often.

How do you clean a diamond ring? FAQs

How do I make my diamond ring shiny again?

Regularly cleaning your diamond ring at home with soap and water is the best way to keep it looking shiny. This will prevent any dirt and grime from building up to the point where it’s too stubborn to remove. You could also consider taking your ring to your local jewellers for a professional cleaning.

Can I clean my diamond ring with washing up liquid?

Washing up liquid is often considered the best solution for cleaning your diamond ring at home, as it’s gentle and you’re likely to already have some around the house!

Is toothpaste good to clean diamonds?

Toothpaste is not a good option for cleaning your diamond ring, or for cleaning any silver or gold jewellery, for that matter. This is because toothpaste is abrasive and can cause damage to your ring and its gems. Depending on the type of toothpaste and the chemicals it contains, it could also cause discolouration.

Will baking soda clean diamonds?

Using baking soda to clean your diamond ring may cause damage to the diamonds or the metal ring due to its abrasiveness. As baking soda is alkaline, it may also cause damage to some metals or gemstones during the cleaning process, so it might be best to choose a gentler cleaning solution.

Specialist ring insurance through Ripe

Now that your diamond ring looks shiny and new again, you may want to consider protecting it with specialist ring insurance. Specialist ring insurance through Ripe includes cover for loss, theft, and accidental damage.

Find out more about specialist ring insurance through Ripe or get a quick online quote today.