How to Clean Pearls: Safe Step-by-Step Guide

Pearls are delicate gemstones that need gentle care to keep their luster and surface intact. This guide shows you a safe, simple method to clean pearl jewelry at home using items you likely already have. Before you start, check that your pearls are not strung with silk thread that is wet or frayed—if they are, have them restrung before cleaning.

What You’ll Need

Soft, lint-free cloth (microfiber or cotton)
Lukewarm water in a small bowl
Mild, pH-neutral soap (like baby shampoo or dish soap without lemon)
Clean, dry towel
Optional: soft makeup brush for hard-to-reach areas

Step-by-Step

Prepare the cleaning solution – Fill a small bowl with lukewarm water (not hot) and add a tiny drop of mild soap. Swirl gently to mix. Do not use a lot of soap—a little goes a long way.
Dampen your cloth – Dip a corner of the soft cloth into the soapy water, then wring it out thoroughly. The cloth should be barely damp, not dripping wet. Excess water can seep into the drill hole and weaken the string.
Wipe each pearl gently – Hold the jewelry piece by the clasp or a sturdy part, and wipe each pearl individually with the damp cloth. Use a gentle back-and-forth motion. For dirt around the drill hole, use a soft makeup brush dipped in the same solution and gently dab.
Rinse with a clean damp cloth – Use a second cloth dipped in plain lukewarm water (no soap) and wring it out. Wipe each pearl again to remove any soap residue. Soap left on pearls can dull their shine.
Dry immediately – Lay the pearls on a clean, dry towel and pat them dry with another soft cloth. Do not rub, as rubbing can scratch the pearl surface. Let them air-dry completely before storing.
Store properly – Once dry, store pearls in a soft pouch or a jewelry box with a separate compartment. Keep them away from other jewelry that could scratch them. Place a slightly damp cloth (not touching the pearls) in the box if you live in a dry climate to prevent cracking.

Common Mistakes

Soaking pearls in water – Never submerge pearls. Water can weaken the silk thread and cause the pearls to lose their luster over time.
Using harsh chemicals – Avoid vinegar, ammonia, bleach, or commercial jewelry cleaners. They can etch the pearl surface and strip the nacre.
Ultrasonic or steam cleaners – These are absolutely off-limits for pearls. The vibrations and heat can damage the pearls and the string.
Wiping with abrasive materials – Paper towels, tissues, or rough cloths can scratch the pearl. Always use a soft, lint-free cloth.
Cleaning pearls while wearing them – Perspiration, perfume, and hairspray can dull pearls. Clean them after wearing, not before, and always put on pearls last when getting ready.

Tips

Wipe pearls with a dry, soft cloth after every wear to remove oils and dirt before they build up.
Have pearls restrung every 1-2 years if worn often, especially if the string shows signs of stretching or fraying.
Store pearls flat, not hanging, to prevent the string from stretching.
If pearls are heavily soiled, repeat the cleaning process, but do not scrub harder—gentle repetition is safer.
For pearl necklaces, clean each pearl individually rather than pulling the whole strand through the cloth, to avoid stress on the string.

Troubleshooting

Pearls still look dull after cleaning. This can happen if the pearls are old or have been exposed to acids. Try a slightly more thorough cleaning with a soft brush, but if they remain dull, it may be time to have them professionally polished. Never use abrasive polishes.

The string got wet during cleaning. If the silk thread becomes damp, lay the necklace flat on a towel and let it dry completely before wearing or storing. Damp silk stretches and can break. If the string feels weak or frayed, take it to a jeweler for restrung.

Soap residue left on pearls. Rinse again with a clean damp cloth and dry thoroughly. If residue persists, you may have used too much soap—try a smaller amount next time.

Pearls are scratched. Minor scratches can sometimes be buffed by a professional jeweler, but deep scratches are permanent. Prevent scratches by storing pearls separately and avoiding contact with hard surfaces.

Pearls have a yellowed tint. This is often due to aging or exposure to heat and light. Professional cleaning might help, but yellowing is sometimes irreversible. Keep pearls away from direct sunlight and heat to slow this process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use toothpaste to clean pearls?

No. Toothpaste is abrasive and will scratch the pearl surface. Stick to mild soap and water.

Can I wear pearls in the shower?

No. Water, soap, and shampoo can damage pearls and weaken the string. Always remove pearls before showering or swimming.

How often should I clean my pearls?

Wipe them with a dry cloth after each wear. A deeper clean with soap and water is only needed when they look dirty or dull, usually every few months.

Can I use a jewelry cleaner for pearls?

Only if the cleaner explicitly states it is safe for pearls. Most commercial cleaners are too harsh. When in doubt, use the mild soap method.

Why do my pearls feel gritty?

Gritty pearls may have accumulated dirt or oils. Clean them gently with the damp cloth method. If they still feel gritty, they may have been damaged by acid or abrasion; consult a jeweler.

Can I clean pearl earrings the same way?

Yes, but be extra careful around the post or setting. Use a cotton swab dipped in the soapy water to clean around the pearl, then dry immediately.

Sources: Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Menus and buttons can differ slightly by version. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.