How to Clean Swarovski Jewelry Safely
Swarovski jewelry is typically made with individually set crystals and plated metal, so both the stones and the thin finish can be damaged by forceful polishing or common jewelry-cleaning chemicals. Swarovski recommends a soft lint-free cloth for frequent after-wear cleaning. Only occasional deeper cleaning uses lukewarm water near 30°C, a few drops of mild pH-neutral dish detergent and no more than a two-minute wash before a thorough rinse and dry. This guide covers standard Swarovski earrings, rings, necklaces and bracelets with plated metal and crystals. Swarovski watches, home decorations and Created Diamonds pieces have separate care paths, and a loose stone, lifted plating or broken post should be evaluated before any immersion.
Published · Updated
Primary reference: Swarovski official jewelry cleaning and care guide. Always check the manual for your exact model.
Quick reference
- Routine
- Wipe after wear with a soft lint-free cloth.
- Deep clean
- Use 30°C pH-neutral soapy water for no more than two minutes.
- Dry
- Rinse completely, cloth-dry and expose recesses to air.
- Avoid
- Alcohol, ammonia, acidic liquid, sonic cleaners, paper towel and hard pressure.
- Ready when
- The piece is dry, settings are secure and the plating is intact.
What you will need
- The Swarovski care guidance for the product type
- Soft lint-free polishing cloths
- A clean bowl
- Lukewarm water around 30°C
- A few drops of mild pH-neutral dish detergent
- A very soft-bristled brush for occasional deep cleaning
- A clean dry cloth or original storage pouch
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Confirm the item is standard jewelry
Separate ordinary plated crystal jewelry from a watch, decoration, leather accessory or Created Diamonds piece. Read the product description when materials are uncertain. The strictest component controls the method, and this guide does not override a special collection's instructions.
Step 2: Inspect settings and plating
Under good light, check each stone, clasp, earring post and plated edge. Do not immerse jewelry with a loose setting, cracked stone, bent post or visibly lifting finish. Water and brushing can worsen a structural issue that needs repair.
Step 3: Use a dry cloth for frequent care
Wash and dry your hands, then wipe the piece gently from every angle with a soft lint-free cloth. Swarovski recommends cleaning after wear when possible. Hold pierced earrings by the post, and on necklaces or pendants clean the chain last because it is likely to be the dirtiest portion.
Step 4: Prepare an occasional deep-clean bath
Fill a clean bowl with lukewarm water around 30°C and add only a few drops of mild pH-neutral dish detergent. Do not use boiling water. Deep cleaning should be occasional because repeated washing and rubbing can shorten the life of the plating.
Step 5: Wash for no more than two minutes
Place compatible jewelry in the solution for up to two minutes. Use hands or a very soft-bristled brush with light pressure to release persistent dirt. Do not scrub crystal faces, pry beneath settings or extend the soak in an attempt to remove finish wear.
Step 6: Rinse completely
Rinse the jewelry with clean water, ensuring no soap remains behind stones or in chain links. Avoid sonic cleaners, commercial jewelry cleaners containing ammonia or alcohol and acidic liquids; Swarovski warns that these can damage the plating and crystals.
Step 7: Dry gently and thoroughly
Use a soft lint-free cloth to remove water, then lay the piece on a clean cloth until hidden recesses are completely dry. Do not use paper towel or tissue, which may scratch, and do not apply heat.
Step 8: Store and prevent new buildup
Return the dry jewelry to its original packaging or a soft pouch where pieces cannot rub together. Remove it before washing hands, swimming, exercising or applying perfume, hairspray, soap and lotion. Put Swarovski jewelry on last when dressing and remove it first.
Specific cleaning questions
Open a question for a concise answer about stains, odors, safety, frequency, and troubleshooting.