Your Guide on How to Clean Polymer Clay Jewelry Safely
Polymer clay is a lightweight, versatile material perfect for artistic jewelry in all kinds of colors and styles for earrings, necklaces, bracelets. But once you’ve added a special piece to your jewelry collection, you may be wondering how to clean polymer clay without causing damage.
In this article we will look at the best way to keep your polymer clay jewelry clean and the methods for cleaning. There's a few different tips for different finishes you are going to want to know before you do anything to prevent damage to your jewelry. It's pretty easy once you know how.
Sealed or Unsealed? What to Know Before Cleaning Polymer Clay
Before you learn how to clean polymer clay properly, it’s important to determine whether your jewelry has a protective sealant. A sealant is a coating applied to the finished clay piece that protects any color pigments, paints, inks, or other colorants added to the surface of the jewelry.
How do I know if the polymer clay is sealed?
Varnished clay will have a sheen - either gloss, semi-gloss, or matte - and will feel smooth to the touch. If your piece has paint, color pigments, colored alcohol inks, gold leaf, glitter, or any other embellishing medium applied, it is most likely sealed with a varnish.
Resin and waxes are other forms of sealants for polymer clay.
Unsealed Clay Jewelry
If your piece is made with pre-colored clay, meaning the color was added during manufacturing and not applied as a surface finish, and has an unfinished or matte appearance that doesn’t feel silky smooth to the touch, it is likely baked, unsealed clay.
If you are interested in learning more about polymer clay, its uses and learn about different brands such as Sculpey, Kato Clay, etc., check out my other blog post that dives deeper into the world of clay: What is Polymer clay made of, and how do you use it?: A Beginner’s Guide
How to Clean Polymer Clay Jewelry Safely
Before we begin with talking about cleaning and products needed I want to mention that cleaning your polymer clay necklace or earrings, etc. will not only depend on the finish of the clay but also any additional embellishments such as beadwork, metal clasps and other materials surrounding the clay.
Cleaning Sealed Polymer Clay Jewelry with Beaded Details
Because some glass beads have their own finishes and sealants, it’s best to clean your polymer clay with only a dry cloth. Use a dry cotton swab to reach any nooks and crannies and remove lint or dust. A soft microfiber cloth works well, but I also recommend an eyeglass cloth for this process.
Caring for Sealed Polymer Clay Without Beadwork
If your clay jewelry is by itself, without any surrounding beadwork, start with a dry cloth, either microfiber or an eyeglass lens cloth, and wipe it clean. If there are stubborn stains from makeup or skin oils, use a cloth dampened with water and mild dish soap. Wipe dry immediately.
If you’re wearing polymer clay earrings, barrettes, or pendants like the ones in my handmade collections, here’s how to keep them looking their best.
Polymer clay Cleaning Tips - Step-by-Step Instructions
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Dampen a soft cloth with lukewarm water and add a drop of mild dish soap.
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Gently wipe the surface - especially areas with makeup or skin oils.
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Use a cotton swab for hard-to-reach textures (great for my textured pendants or dragon details).
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Blot dry with a clean cloth.
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Let air-dry completely before storing or wearing.
Note: Avoid harsh cleaners or soaking. Water is okay, but only if used as a damp towel.
Cleaning Metal Chains and Clasps
Use a dry silver jeweler’s cleaning cloth to clean tarnished metal chains and clasps. This is the one I use and like and use daily (not an affiliate link): Fabulustre Jewelry Polishing Cloths 9" x 11"
Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid
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Avoid acetone, alcohol, or jewelry dips
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Don’t soak pieces
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Never scrub aggressively or use rough cloths
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Avoid direct heat or hot water
Tip: Polymer clay itself handles water well, as it's a plastic-based material made with polymers and plasticizers. It’s the finishes you need to be careful with. Over-cleaning or wear and tear can cause damage.
For example, my flower barrettes have a hand-painted finish, so they only need a gentle clean dry cloth. I also secure my hair barrette clips with clay, but other brands often use glue, which can weaken or loosen with excessive moisture, so take extra care when cleaning.
Cleaning Unsealed Polymer Clay Jewelry
If you're certain that your polymer clay jewelry does not have a protective finish, there are two ways to clean it:
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Use a damp cloth with mild soap, as mentioned earlier.
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As a last resort, if there are stubborn stains and no protective finish, you can gently dab the area with a cotton swab and 70% rubbing alcohol.
Caution: Rubbing alcohol dissolves polymer clay, so be sure to dab lightly and briefly. Wipe clean immediately with a damp cloth when done. It's also advisable to test on a less visible area first to avoid damaging your piece.
Keep Your Polymer Clay Looking Its Best
Keep your jewelry looking magical all the time and minimize the need for cleaning your jewelry. Here are some helpful tips to keep your jewelry looking as good as it did the day you bought it.
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Have a dedicated protective pouch or jewelry box for your jewelry piece. Store in a soft pouch or jewelry box separate from other pieces in your jewelry collection.
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Keep jewelry away from perfumes, hair spray, and oils. Apply lotions, perfumes and hair products before wearing your jewelry. Also allow your skin to dry before wearing a necklace for example.
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Remove before swimming and showering
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Prevent tangles and wear and tear - Don’t sleep with your jewelry on.
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Wipe with a dry cloth after each wear to remove skin oils
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Final Thoughts on Cleaning Clay Jewelry
Keeping your jewelry looking its best doesn’t have to be complicated. Now that you know how to clean polymer clay safely, you can enjoy your favorite pieces for years to come, whether they’re unsealed, sealed, painted, or paired with delicate beads. A little care goes a long way.
Now that you know how to clean polymer clay jewelry and keep your pieces looking beautiful, why not browse the handmade collection in my shop? If you're gifting a piece, just leave a note at checkout and I'll include a special care tip card to make sure they know how to care for their special jewelry.
If you have any questions pop them in the comments section below and I will answer them as soon as I can!