You’re actually damaging your jewellery with this simple mistake

The last thing you want to do is ruin your hard earned jewellery and most people don’t realise that they have been damaging their jewels on a daily bases with this simple mistake – showering with them.

According to experts, you should avoid taking your jewellery into the shower or bath. “Shampoo and conditioner can get stuck behind mountings, and might also contain chemicals that can damage the metal over time,” said Elizabeth to House Beautiful.

A plain metal wedding band is probably fine to wear in the shower, taking the jewellery off would be the best option.

However, Jennifer Gandia, owner of Greenwich Jewelers says, “A dip in the pool or a quick rinse down in the gym shower is perfectly fine”. Just don’t do it every day and regularly as “the effects of hard water and soap scum are hard to remove”.

But what about costume jewellery? Jennifer says, “Steam can loosen the glue that holds pieces together, or you can cause rusting.” So even if it’s not worth a lot, you’re better off removing them.

If your jewellery lacks shine because of all that soap scum, try these tips by the Reader’s Digest.

Toothpaste

Put a little toothpaste on an old toothbrush and use it to make your diamond ring sparkle instead of your teeth. Clean off the residue with a damp cloth.

Ammonia

Brighten up your gold and silver trinkets by soaking them for 10 minutes in a solution of 1/2 cup clear ammonia mixed in 1 cup warm water. Gently wipe clean with a soft cloth and let dry. Note: Do not do this with jewellery containing pearls, because it could dull or damage their delicate surface.

Baking Soda

To remove built-up tarnish from your silver, make a thick paste with 1/4 cup baking soda and 2 tablespoons water. Apply with a damp sponge and gently rub, rinse, and buff dry. To polish gold jewellery, cover with a light coating of baking soda, pour a bit of vinegar over it, and rinse clean. Note: Do not use this technique with jewellery containing pearls or gem-stones, as it could damage their finish or loosen any glue.

Do you wear your jewellery in the shower? Any good cleaning tips?