Mandy PhillipsWhether you’re wearing a piece of sterling silver for its beauty, sentimental value, or just to complete your look, you probably want to take good care of it.
But what happens when it’s time to take a shower? Can you wear your favorite sterling silver jewelry without worrying about it losing its luster?
In this article, you will learn whether or not you can shower with sterling silver jewelry. We will examine the potential risks of wearing sterling silver in the shower, as well as offer practical tips for how to properly care for your jewelry to ensure it stays looking its best.
So, if you want to know the dos and don’ts of showering with sterling silver jewelry, keep reading!
Properties of Sterling Silver
To understand how sterling silver reacts to water exposure and other environmental factors, it’s essential to learn about its properties and characteristics.
What Is Sterling Silver?
Sterling silver is an alloy made up of 92.5% pure silver (hence the stamp, 925 sterling silver) and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This combination of metals gives sterling silver the unique properties that make it a popular choice for jewelry.
Is Sterling Silver Waterproof?
While sterling silver is not completely waterproof, it is water-resistant. This means that it can withstand exposure to water for short periods of time without being damaged.
However, prolonged exposure to water can cause tarnishing and dullness over time, especially if the water contains chemicals such as chlorine or salt.
Can You Get Sterling Silver Wet?
Yes, you can get sterling silver wet. In fact, it is safe to wash sterling silver with warm water and mild soap to remove dirt and oils that can build up over time.
However, you should avoid exposing sterling silver to harsh chemicals, such as chlorine or bleach, as these can cause damage to the metal.
Will Sterling Silver Tarnish or Rust in the Water?
Sterling silver can tarnish over time due to its copper content. The copper in the alloy reacts with oxygen and other elements in the environment, forming a layer of tarnish on the surface of the metal.
Exposure to water, especially water containing chlorine, sulfur, or salt, can speed up the tarnishing process.
However, sterling silver won’t rust, as rusting is a reaction specific to iron and its alloys.
Can You Shower with Sterling Silver Jewelry
While it is possible to shower with sterling silver jewelry, it’s generally not recommended due to the potential risks involved. [1]
By understanding the risks, you can make an informed decision about whether to remove your sterling silver necklace, bracelet, or earrings before showering.
Potential Risks of Showering with Sterling Silver Jewelry
While sterling silver is generally safe to wear in the shower, there are a few potential risks to keep in mind.
Tarnishing
Sterling silver is prone to tarnishing, which can be exacerbated by exposure to water and soap.
If you wear your sterling silver jewelry in the shower frequently, you may notice that it starts to lose its shine over time.
Damage
Depending on the design of your jewelry, it may be more prone to damage in the shower.
For example, if your jewelry has intricate details or delicate gemstones, exposure to water and soap could cause it to become damaged or discolored.
Corrosion
If your sterling silver jewelry has gemstones or other non-metal components, exposure to water and chemicals can cause corrosion of these materials.
Allergic Reactions
Some people may develop allergic reactions to the metals in sterling silver when it is exposed to water and chemicals. [2]
Loss
Wearing jewelry in the shower increases the risk of it slipping off and getting lost down the drain or elsewhere.
Recommended Read: How to Get Jewelry Out of a Drain
How to Care for Sterling Silver Jewelry
To keep your sterling silver jewelry in pristine condition, it’s essential to clean and store it properly.
By following these guidelines, you can help prevent tarnishing and maintain the beauty of your jewelry for years to come.
How to Clean Sterling Silver Jewelry
To keep your sterling silver jewelry looking its best, it’s important to clean it regularly. Here are some tips to help you clean your sterling silver:
- Use a gentle, phosphate-free soap and warm water to create a cleaning solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can scratch or damage the surface of the metal.
- Scrub the jewelry gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, paying special attention to any grooves or intricate details. The toothbrush should be clean and reserved exclusively for jewelry cleaning to avoid transferring any contaminants.
- Rinse the jewelry thoroughly under lukewarm water to remove any soap residue. Be cautious not to drop your jewelry down the drain.
- Pat the jewelry dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Do not use paper towels, as they can scratch the surface of the metal.
- For stubborn tarnish, use a specialized silver cleaning solution or a polishing cloth designed for sterling silver. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid damaging your jewelry.
It’s essential to clean your sterling silver jewelry regularly, especially if you wear it daily. This will help maintain its shine and prevent the buildup of tarnish.
How to Store Sterling Silver Jewelry
Proper storage is also important for maintaining the beauty of your sterling silver jewelry. Here are some tips to help you store your jewelry:
- Store your jewelry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and sources of humidity. Excessive moisture and heat can accelerate tarnishing and cause damage to gemstones.
- Keep each piece in a soft cloth pouch or an anti-tarnish jewelry box to minimize exposure to air and moisture. These storage options contain materials that help absorb moisture and prevent tarnishing.
- Store pieces separately to prevent scratches or damage caused by contact with other jewelry. This is particularly important for items with gemstones, as they can easily scratch the surface of the metal or other stones.
- Avoid storing your jewelry in the bathroom, as the humidity from showers and baths can increase the likelihood of tarnishing.
By following these simple tips, you can help keep your sterling silver jewelry looking its best for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
While it’s not recommended to wear sterling silver jewelry in the shower, it’s an even worse idea to wear it in the pool. The chlorine and other chemicals in the water can cause damage to the metal, leaving it discolored and tarnished. It’s best to remove your sterling silver jewelry before getting into the pool.
Wearing sterling silver jewelry in the ocean is not recommended. The saltwater can cause the metal to corrode and tarnish, leaving it discolored and damaged. Additionally, the movement of the water can cause your jewelry to become loose or even fall off. It’s best to remove your sterling silver jewelry before going into the ocean.
The Ultimate Guide to Wearing Jewelry in the Shower
To learn more about what jewelry you can wear in the shower, check out our expert guide. It covers everything from which metals and gemstones are water-resistant to how to care for your jewelry to prevent damage from exposure to water.
