How to Care for Brass Earrings to Prevent Tarnish

Quick answer

To prevent tarnish on brass earrings, keep them dry, store them in an airtight container, and clean them gently with a soft cloth after each wear.

Step-by-step brass earrings care routine

1. 1. Dry after each wear: After taking off your brass earrings, gently wipe them with a soft, dry cloth to remove any moisture or oils from your skin. A common mistake is leaving them damp, which accelerates tarnish.
2. 2. Store in an airtight container: Place the earrings in a ziplock bag or a jewelry box with a tight seal. Add a small silica gel packet to absorb any lingering humidity. Avoid storing them in open air or in a bathroom where humidity is high.
3. 3. Clean with a soft cloth or brush: If tarnish appears, gently rub the earrings with a soft, dry cloth. For intricate areas, use a soft brush (like a clean makeup brush) to reach crevices. Do not use abrasive cleaners or metal polishes, as they can remove the brass's finish.
4. 4. Keep away from chemicals: Avoid exposing brass earrings to perfumes, hairspray, lotions, or cleaning products. Apply such products first, then put on the earrings. Chemicals can speed up tarnishing and cause discoloration.
5. 5. Polish only when needed: For stubborn tarnish, use a brass-specific polishing cloth or a mild paste of lemon juice and baking soda. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely. Over-polishing can wear down the brass, so reserve this for occasional deep cleaning.

Featured product

• Ivy Leaves Brass Earrings: Brass is prone to tarnishing. Keep dry and away from moisture. Clean gently with a soft cloth or brush if needed, and make sure the brass is dry before storing. This means you should always dry the earrings after wearing and before storing to slow down tarnish formation.