# How to clean pearls

> How to clean natural, cultured and imitation pearls: a soft damp cloth, no ultrasonic or chemicals, and how to store them.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/how-to-clean-pearls/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-07-30
- Updated: 2026-07-30
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/como-limpiar-perlas/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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[Pearls](https://www.711grados.com/en/pearls/) are soft and sensitive. Gentle care keeps them shining for generations.

## Cleaning after each wear

Wipe with a soft, slightly damp cloth (lukewarm water) and let them air-dry laid flat before putting them away. Sweat, perfume and hairspray attack the nacre.

## If they are very dirty

Use lukewarm water with a drop of mild soap and a cloth; wipe with a damp cloth and dry flat. Do not scrub hard and do not leave them soaking: water can weaken the thread.

## What never to use

- Ultrasonic, steam, bleach, ammonia, vinegar and lemon.
- Baking soda, toothpaste and any abrasive.
- Metal polish or silver products.

## Storing them

Flat, in a soft cloth pouch, apart from hard pieces. Silk thread stretches with wear: if you wear them often, restring them every few years.

> [!NOTE]
> Imitation pearls (glass or plastic with a coating) are also damaged by water and chemicals: clean them only with a damp cloth.

## See also

- [Pearls](https://www.711grados.com/en/pearls/)
- [How to store jewelry so it does not get damaged](https://www.711grados.com/en/how-to-store-jewelry/)
- [Ultrasonic jewelry cleaner: when to use it and when not to](https://www.711grados.com/en/ultrasonic-jewelry-cleaner-when-to-use/)