Stainless steel is one of the metals that needs the least care, but with wear it builds up traces of cream, perfume or sweat that dull its shine. Cleaning it is very easy and you won't need anything you don't already have at home.
What you need
- A bowl of lukewarm water (not hot).
- A few drops of mild soap (hand soap or gentle washing-up liquid).
- A soft, lint-free cloth (a glasses cloth is perfect).
- For tricky corners: a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Step by step
- Soak the piece for a couple of minutes in the warm, soapy water.
- Rub gently with your fingers or the cloth. On textured pieces, like hammered or chain designs, go over them with the soft brush without pressing.
- Rinse in clean water so no soap is left.
- Dry it thoroughly with the cloth, leaving no drops, especially on clasps and links.
- Buff it with a final wipe of the dry cloth.
If it's gold-tone: even more gently
On gold-tone pieces, the colour is a finish over the steel. Clean them the same way, but don't brush hard or rub with anything rough, so you don't wear the gold away.
What never to use
- Bleach, ammonia or harsh cleaning products.
- Toothpaste, bicarbonate of soda or scouring pads: they scratch and wear the finish.
- Silver cleaners: they're made for a different metal.
- Very hot water on pieces with glued stones or beads.
What if it has stones, cord or beads?
Don't submerge it. Wipe only the metal part with a slightly damp cloth and a drop of soap, then dry it straight away.
How to store it
Keep each piece in its own pouch or compartment so they don't scratch each other, and away from bathroom humidity. Want to know more? In this article we explain why stainless steel doesn't turn black. There's also a summary in Caring for your pieces.
