How to Properly Clean and Care for Your Handmade Clay Earrings

Your jewelry tells your story—and with just a little love, it will shine for years to come.

Handmade polymer clay earrings are more than accessories. They’re wearable art—each pair crafted with care, creativity, and intention. Because they’re made with polymer clay and other delicate materials, it’s important to know how to clean clay earrings properly. With the right care, your earrings will stay beautiful and safe to wear, without losing the detail or finish that makes them special.

Why Special Care Matters

Unlike mass-produced jewelry, handmade clay earrings are lightweight, porous, and often paired with resin or metal accents. While they’re durable enough for everyday wear, harsh chemicals or improper cleaning methods can damage their surface, dull their shine, or weaken the adhesive used for details. The good news? Keeping your polymer clay jewelry clean is simple—no fancy tools required.

How to Clean Your Clay Earrings

✨ Step 1: Gentle Dusting
Use a soft, dry cloth (like microfiber or cotton) to gently wipe away dust, oils, or light debris. This is the easiest way to keep your handmade earrings clean without damaging them.

✨ Step 2: Spot Cleaning
For small marks, slightly dampen your cloth with water and wipe carefully. If needed, add a touch of mild, fragrance-free soap. Avoid soaking—polymer clay should never be submerged in water.

✨ Step 3: Restore Shine on Metal Findings
If your earrings include brass, gold-plated, or sterling silver parts, polish the metal only (not the clay) with a jewelry-safe polishing cloth. This helps keep your handmade jewelry looking new while protecting the clay surface.

✨ Step 4: Resin Care (if applicable)
Some designs feature resin details. Resin can be gently wiped with a damp cloth but should never be exposed to alcohol-based cleaners, which can cause cloudiness.

What Not to Do

To keep your polymer clay earrings in perfect condition:

• ❌ Avoid harsh chemicals like acetone, alcohol, or jewelry dips.

• ❌ Don’t wear your clay earrings in the shower, pool, or while sleeping.

• ❌ Keep away from perfumes, hairsprays, and lotions—these can stain or weaken the material.

Long-Term Storage Tips for Clay Jewelry

When not in use, store your earrings in a soft pouch or jewelry box, away from direct sunlight and humidity. This helps prevent scratches, tarnishing, and fading—keeping your clay jewelry beautiful for years to come.

Final Thought

Handmade jewelry deserves gentle care because it’s not just jewelry—it’s art with a story. By following these clay earring cleaning tips, you’ll keep your earrings looking as stunning as the day you picked them out. Thoughtful care ensures your favorite polymer clay earrings will always be ready to elevate every outfit and every moment.