As a jewelry care expert with years of experience in maintaining and restoring various types of jewelry, I've come across a variety of cleaning methods, from the traditional to the modern. When it comes to cleaning costume jewelry, it's essential to approach the task with a gentle touch due to the nature of the materials used, which are often more delicate than those found in fine jewelry. Costume jewelry, also known as fashion jewelry or artificial jewelry, is typically made from less expensive materials such as plated metals, glass, plastic, and beads. These materials can be damaged by harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning methods that are suitable for more robust materials like gold or diamonds. The best method for cleaning costume jewelry involves a few simple steps: 1. Preparation: Before you begin, lay out a clean, soft cloth to place your jewelry on once it's cleaned. This prevents scratches from any hard surfaces. 2. Cleaning Solution: The cleaning solution should be mild. A popular and effective method is to mix one drop of baby shampoo with water. The baby shampoo is gentle and free of the alcohol and other harsh chemicals found in regular jewelry cleaners that can be too strong for costume pieces. 3. Application: Dip a soft toothbrush or a Q-Tip into the solution and gently scrub the jewelry. Be careful not to scrub too hard as this can damage the material or dislodge any delicate parts, such as beads or stones. 4. Scrubbing: Pay special attention to areas that may collect dirt, such as behind gemstones or in any crevices. The soft bristles of the toothbrush or the cotton tip of the Q-Tip can reach these hard-to-reach spots effectively. 5. Rinsing: After you've thoroughly cleaned the jewelry, rinse it quickly under cool water. Warm water can sometimes cause the base metal to oxidize or discolor, so it's best to use cool water to avoid any damage. 6. Drying: Gently shake off any excess water and then dry the jewelry with a clean, soft hand towel or a microfiber cloth. The microfiber is ideal because it's very gentle and can absorb moisture without scratching the jewelry. 7. Storage: Once the jewelry is completely dry, store it properly. Costume jewelry should be stored separately from other jewelry to avoid scratches. It's best to use a jewelry box with individual compartments or soft pouches. 8. Maintenance: Regular cleaning and proper storage can significantly extend the life of your costume jewelry. Aim to clean it every few wears or as needed, depending on how it's used. Remember, the goal is to maintain the jewelry's appearance without causing any damage. Always handle costume jewelry with care, as it's designed to be more of a fashion statement than an heirloom piece. read more >>

Mix together one drop each of baby shampoo and water (regular jewelry cleaners, usually meant for the real deal, are too harsh to use on costume pieces). Use a soft toothbrush or Q-Tip to clean hard-to-reach spots. Rinse off quickly in cool water and dry with a clean, soft hand towel or microfiber cloth.read more >>