Diamonds hold their brilliance for an astonishing span of time, yet daily wear can leave a faint haze that dulls the surface temporarily long before the stone loses any true sparkle. Residue from soap, cream, and daily life gathers around the prongs, basket and small crevices, and even a modest amount can change the way a ring catches light.
At Alexis Gallery, we know that cleaning is part of the life cycle of a ring. If you are trying to learn how to clean a wedding ring or engagement ring without damaging it, or sorting through advice that feels inconsistent, this guide simplifies the process.
If you’re starting to notice your ring is looking a little dull, a small bowl of warm water, a drop of mild dish soap, and a soft toothbrush is all you need for at-home cleaning. Make sure to avoid harsh chemicals, such as bleach or strong cleaners. Even relatively innocuous cleaning agents, like baking soda, are to be avoided.
Dishwashing soap is recommended for the cleaning solution over shampoo or body wash because these products can contain additives that might leave a film behind.
A short soak loosens the residue that clings to engagement ring settings or sits beneath the stone, which will lift away as you gently scrub the ring. After that, it’s just a matter of rinsing and patting the ring dry with a soft cloth or paper towels. Extra points for a fine microfiber cloth that removes the last finger prints. Most people notice a clear change after this single routine, and making it a regular habit helps keep your ring dazzling.
Ultrasonic jewelry cleaners are not recommended for regular use, because overusing them can lead to stone loosening/loss and may cause unintended damage if your piece bumps the sides or settles on the bottom of the tank. If you ever choose to use one at home, be sure your ring is suspended in a basket so it isn’t directly touching the interior of the machine.
If you aren’t getting the results you want from an at-home cleaning, we recommend having your ring professionally cleaned, rather than taking a more aggressive approach that might lead to loose stones or permanently damage your ring.
To clean diamond wedding bands, it takes a little more attention because of residue that finds its way into tiny pockets around each stone, especially in pavé and micro-set designs. Soaking your diamond jewellery in the warm water and dish soap solution softens what sits between the stones, which, when followed by a careful brushing, can restore the brightness in your diamonds.
If you’re in a rush, plain gold bands don’t require soaking, as there aren’t tiny areas for dirt to build up like there are on diamond bands. Simply wipe your ring thoroughly with a microfiber cloth to remove any surface dirt and finger prints. Remember that the natural patina of scuffs and wear on your ring won’t be removed with this method. If you want your ring to return to a flawless mirror shine, a professional polishing is required.
Textured bands follow their own path as they’re worn. A hammered or brushed finish slowly softens, taking on a patina that reflects how the ring has been handled over time. These surfaces aren’t polished during service, since polishing and chemicals would strip away the character of the texture itself. The ring simply matures with its owner, gaining a lived-in quality that many people find more honest than a completely uniform finish.
If perfection is your personality though, brushed finishes can often be reapplied during servicing.
For wedding or engagement rings featuring diamonds or sapphires, a simple mix of warm water and mild soap is usually enough. Let the ring sit in the bowl for a short time, then use a soft brush (a toothbrush works perfectly) to loosen what collects around the setting. Rinse thoroughly so no soap remains, and dry it with a clean cloth. Most wedding rings respond well to this routine, and it’s gentle enough for regular use.
Vinegar can react with certain metals and may weaken the points where the ring was soldered. It can also change the look of the surface. For that reason, it isn’t a safe choice for at-home care. Warm water and mild soap are more reliable. If the ring still looks dull after that, a jeweller can remove buildup that home cleaning doesn’t reach.
A small drop of Dawn works well for many rings because it lifts oils without stressing the metal. The key is to use only a little so no residue is left behind. After soaking and brushing, rinse the ring thoroughly. This approach is practical for diamond rings and gold bands and fits easily into a regular cleaning routine.
A ring made at Alexis Gallery is built with thought, intention, and an understanding of how it will be worn over time. Professional cleaning is part of that commitment. Our studio offers yearly checkups, deep cleaning, and careful assessments of settings.
If you’re looking for a custom Toronto ring, our team works closely with you from the first conversation to the final fitting. We help you choose stones, refine proportions, and build a ring that reflects your story, then support it with the kind of care that keeps it looking perfect years later. It’s an ongoing relationship, not a single appointment, and many clients return because they value that continuity.
Whether you’re just starting to explore or you’re ready to bring a vision to life, this first conversation is where everything begins. We can’t wait to talk to you!
