Do you clean your jewellery often?
Image via Pexels.comDo you clean your jewellery regularly? If not, you may want to start as research shows that your favourite accessories can home hundreds, if not thousands, of bacterial colonies. Ew!
An investigation done by jewellery specialists Est1897 showed how much bacteria can grown on your jewellery pieces in just one week
And the results are pretty nasty.
The bacteria that was discovered on pieces is generally harmless. However, if it's left on your jewellery for too long and comes into contact with broken skin or is worn on the body while you're immunocompromised, it can quickly impact your health.
The research on rings showed up 504 different bacterial colonies, one fungus colony, and one black mould colony in the space of just one week.
Imagine how many colonies might be there if you never wash them?
Image via Pexels.comWatches were the second dirtiest item - reportedly carrying four different types of bacteria. According to the report, they grew a whopping 20,000 bacterial colonies in the space of just one week.
The next item to add to your cleaning list is earrings. In just one week, 485 bacterial colonies developed, according to the report, with four different bacteria types found.
Image via Pexels.comHere are some steps Est1897 gave to clean your jewellery:
- Make a cleaning solution with washing up liquid and warm water, and soak your jewellery in it for up to 30 minutes.
- Gently scrub each piece with a toothbrush
- Rinse your jewellery with cold water to remove all suds and soapy residue.
- Dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Finally, steam each piece by holding it carefully over boiling water with a tweezers.
Some bonus tips to keep your jewellery germ-free:
- Always remember to remove it while washing your hands, cleaning, applying makeup, or swimming.
- Wear your silver more often to keep it shiny, and store it in an anti-tarnish bag when you're not.
- Buff pearls and jewels with a soft cloth to remove body oils and prevent them from losing their shine.
- Get your jewellery from reputable, good-value jewellers to ensure that any jewels or gem stones are secure.
