Sometimes stainless steel necklace chains get dirty due to sweat or stains and need cleaning. However, not so many people know how to clean a chain necklace. Some fear they could damage their stainless steel jewelry by cleaning it. This blog will guide you on how to clean your stainless steel chain necklace safely and how often you should clean it. 

Why is the Stainless Steel Chain Necklace Turning Black?

Have you ever experienced a stainless steel chain necklace turning black? There are a few reasons for this: 

Sweat and body oil

 Blackening can result from the buildup of sweat and body oil on a stainless steel necklace. When you use your chain for a long while without removing the sticky, dirty sweat and body oil, the chain can start to change color over time. This also includes dead skin residue. 

Wrong Cleaning Methods

One common mistake many make that leads to their chain necklace turning black is the use of the wrong cleaning agents and methods. Some make the mistake of using soaps that are too strong for their stainless steel chain necklace.  

These cleaning agents are either acidic or have high base content that disintegrates the chromium on stainless steel jewelry. Some people may also use excessively sharp or rough surfaces to wipe their necklaces. 

Exposure to Chemicals

 A Stainless steel chain necklace can start to turn black if exposed to harsh chemicals. Strong chemicals can break down the chromium layer and cause discoloration.

Low Quality Stainless Steel Chain

 If you purchase a low-quality stainless steel necklace, it may turn black after a few months of use. Ideally, you should purchase your jewelry from trusted manufacturers or suppliers who ensure the use of the right material. 

Best Methods for Cleaning Stainless Steel Chain Necklace

Since the material used to clean a necklace can ruin its beauty, paying attention to the appropriate cleaning method is important. If you own a custom stainless steel necklace chain, check the following steps and watch the accompanying video to know how to clean a stainless steel chain necklace. 

•  Get a mild dish soap: A mild dish soap is all you need to clean your stainless steel necklace. A mild soap also works for stainless steel rings, earrings and similar jewelry. We use mild soap because it’s not harsh and corrosive to jewelry . 

• Vinegar and Baking soda: Vinegar and baking soda is an alternative to a mild soap. We use this if your chain is super dirty and hasn’t been washed in a very long time. This mixture removes tough dirt easily.

• Get a soft brush: You need a brush with soft bristles to scrub out dirt without ruining your necklace. 

• A soft piece of cloth: Lastly, you need a soft piece of cloth to pat the necklace dry. This helps to remove moisture and leftover residue when you are cleaning.  

5 Steps for Cleaning a Stainless Steel Necklace

Follow these steps to clean your stainless steel necklace chain: 

• Make a soapy water using your mild soap and soak the necklace inside it for about seven minutes. If you want, you can make the water slightly warm but not hot. 

• Mix baking soda and vinegar together to make a paste if the chain is extremely dirty. 

• Use the soft brush to scrub your chain gently to remove dirt. If you are using the baking soda mixture, put some on the brush and scrub it gently over the necklace. 

• Rinse with warm water after scrubbing. If you still notice some dirt after rinsing, scrub again with a brush and rinse with warm water when you are done. 

• Clean with a dry piece of cloth to remove moisture. 

Here’s a video with a visual explanation of each step:

How Often Should You Clean Your Necklace Chain?

The cleaning of your stainless steel necklace chain should be a regular process. The frequency of cleaning depends on a few factors, such as: 

• How often do you use 
• Where you use it 

If you wear your necklace chain every day, a monthly cleaning schedule is not out of place. But if you occasionally wear it, then you can clean it once every three months. However, regardless of how often you wear your stainless steel necklace chain, endeavor to use a soft piece of cloth to wipe off dirt every time you wear it. 

In terms of where you use it, people who live in humid regions may need to clean more frequently due to the tendency of the necklace being affected by more body sweat and heat. Additionally, if the user sweats with body lotion, sunscreen, and perfumes applied, these are catalysts that can accelerate tarnishing and corrosion. 

Maintenance Tips for Stainless Steel Chain Necklace

Maintaining a stainless steel necklace chain can help it remain in excellent condition for a long time. Stainless steel jewelry maintenance isn’t difficult. By following a few expert tips and suggestions, you can properly care for your jewelry and prolong its lifespan.

1. Proper Storage 

Always store your necklace chain in a cool, dry place. Avoid moisture in your storage, as constant exposure to water reduces the longevity of your stainless steel jewelry. The storage shouldn’t be too hot, as it is bad for stainless steel. 

2. Regular Cleaning 

Clean your stainless necklace regularly to keep it shining for a long time. As mentioned in this blog, cleaning after each use is recommended to avoid the buildup of dirt. Schedule time monthly to clean your stainless steel necklace chain if you can’t care for it after each use. If you wear it every day, ensure you don’t go too long without cleaning it. When you clean, stick to mild soap, a soft brush, and a cloth. 

3. Avoid Harsh Conditions 

Many people like to wear their stainless steel necklace everywhere and in all situations. While stainless steel is strong and durable, not all types can withstand harsh conditions. For example, you can swim with some types of stainless steel jewelry at the beach, but you shouldn’t do that with some. A 316L stainless steel necklace chain can be worn at the beach since salty water won’t affect it. However, 304 jewelry may be at risk if it comes in contact with salty water in excess. 

So, one way to maintain your necklace chain is to avoid conditions that can affect it. This also extends to the type of chemicals you use to clean your necklace. Additionally, it’s advised not to apply perfumes, lotions, etc, on your jewelry. Direct application of such things can increase the amount of chemicals your necklace is exposed to and accelerate degradation. Only wear your jewelry after applying your body care products. 

Conclusion 

So far, we’ve looked at how to clean a stainless steel chain necklace with materials that can easily be found at home. With water, mild soap, a soft brush, and a piece of soft cloth, you can properly clean your stainless steel necklace chain, maintaining its shine and prolonging its longevity. In the case of tough stains, baking soda and vinegar are safe cleaning options. As you use this guide to keep your necklace clean and in good condition, don’t forget the maintenance tips. 

FAQs 

Can I use toothpaste to clean stainless steel jewelry?

Generally, you can use toothpaste to clean your stainless steel jewelry. However, not all types of toothpaste are safe, such as whitening types.

What is the best cleaner for stainless steel?

Mild soap, water, and a soft brush remain the best cleansers for stainless steel jewelry. When the stains are tough, baking soda and vinegar or toothpaste (non-whitening) can be the best option. 

How to remove tarnish from stainless steel?

Baking soda and vinegar can be used to remove tarnish from stainless steel jewelry. The abrasive nature of this mixture can rid a stainless steel of tarnish. 

Can you wash stainless steel jewelry with soap and water?

Yes, you can wash stainless steel jewelry in soap and water to remove dirt. You can soak your stainless steel jewelry in soapy water for a few minutes before using a soft brush to scrub out dirt. 
Feebee Jewelry is a leading stainless steel jewelry production company with a large team of professionals. We are available to take all inquiries.