We all love tips and tricks, especially when they promise to make our lives easier. But when it comes to jewellery care, not all hacks are as helpful as they seem. Ann-Marie, an expert from Miltons Diamonds explains popular TikTok hacks that can actually damage your jewellery, and what to do instead.
- Wearing Jewellery All the Time
TikTok Hack: Never take off your jewellery to keep it safe and avoid losing it.
Why It’s Bad: Constant wear exposes your jewellery to water, sweat, and chemicals that can cause tarnish and weakening.
What to Do Instead: Remove your jewellery when showering, swimming, or doing chores to keep it clean and in good shape.
2. Cleaning with Toothpaste
TikTok Hack: Use toothpaste to clean your jewellery and make it shine.
Why It’s Bad: Toothpaste is abrasive and can scratch metals and gemstones, especially softer ones.
What to Do Instead: Use a gentle soap with warm water and a soft brush, or a jewellery cleaning solution designed for your pieces.
3. Using Ultrasonic Cleaners on All Jewellery
TikTok Hack: Ultrasonic cleaners are great for cleaning all your jewellery.
Why It’s Bad: These cleaners can damage soft stones like pearls and opals, and can loosen settings on your jewellery.
What to Do Instead: Check if your stones are safe for ultrasonic cleaning. If unsure, clean by hand or take it to a professional.
4. Storing Jewellery Together
TikTok Hack: Keep all your jewellery in one box to stay organised.
Why It’s Bad: Storing jewellery together can cause scratches and tangling, damaging delicate pieces.
What to Do Instead: Store each piece separately, using a jewellery box with compartments or individual pouches.
5. Showering with Jewellery
TikTok Hack Keep your jewellery on, in the shower to clean it.
Why It’s Bad: Soap and shampoo can leave residue on your jewellery, making it look dull and dirty.
What to Do Instead: Take off your jewellery before you shower. Clean it separately with a gentle solution.
6. Polishing with Baking Soda
TikTok Hack: Use baking soda to polish your jewellery quickly.
Why It’s Bad: Baking soda is abrasive and can scratch your jewellery, especially softer metals and stones.
What to Do Instead: Use mild dish soap with warm water for cleaning. For polishing, use a product made for jewellery.
7. Ignoring Loose Stones
TikTok Hack: If your jewellery looks fine, it’s fine.
Why It’s Bad: Stones can loosen over time and may fall out if not checked.
What to Do Instead: Regularly inspect your jewellery for loose stones. If you notice any, take them to a jeweller for repair.
Ann-Marie, an expert from Miltons Diamonds says:
It’s important to be careful with the advice you follow for jewellery care. Some TikTok hacks might seem convenient, but they can cause serious damage to your precious pieces. Always opt for gentle, proven methods, and when in doubt, consult a professional. Keeping your jewellery beautiful and intact is worth the extra care.
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