CAN I SHOWER WITH STAINLESS STEEL JEWELRY?
Stainless steel jewelry has become a popular choice for many people, and it’s not hard to see why.
However, once you own stainless steel jewelry, you might naturally wonder about how to take care of it and what it can withstand.
When it comes to jewelry, one of the most common questions people have is "how nasty is this thing gonna get once I shower in it".
This is especially true when you're buying something online from that pit of cheapness called TEMU (which we DO NOT recommend doing).
Stainless steel is a popular choice for jewelry because its durable, affordable, and sleek.
But does it hold up well in the shower?
In this blog post, we will explore whether you can shower with stainless steel jewelry and how to care for it properly.
Discover the facts and considerations to help your favorite pieces last and look their best.
From understanding the properties of stainless steel to practical care tips, we will cover everything you need to know to keep your jewelry looking its best.
CAN STAINLESS STEEL JEWELRY GET WET?
The short answer is yes, stainless steel jewelry can get wet without worrying about damaging it.
Stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion and rust, which means it won’t tarnish or turn your skin green, even when exposed to water.
Unlike some other metals that may dull, discolor or tarnish with exposure to moisture, stainless steel remains looking as good as new.
This means you can confidently wear your stainless steel jewelry in the shower, at the pool, or in other wet environments without concerns about its appearance.
It is generally safe to shower with stainless steel jewelry.
It’s important however to keep in mind that soaps, shampoos, and other chemicals commonly found in shower gels may degrade your jewelry over time.
SOAP AND SHAMPOO
While water itself will not harm your stainless steel jewelry, the products you use in the shower such as soaps, shampoos, and conditioners can leave a residue on your stainless steel jewelry that can possibly dull its shine over time.
To prevent this buildup, it's a good idea to rinse your jewelry thoroughly after each shower.
CHLORINE EXPOSURE
If you swim in chlorinated pools or hot tubs, it's best to remove your stainless steel jewelry before taking a dip.
Prolonged exposure to chlorine can weaken the metals' structure and cause discoloration.
How weak, not very. How discolored, not very. But we're being careful here.
REASONS BEHIND THE WATER-RESISTANT NATURE OF STAINLESS STEEL
The main reason why stainless steel is water-resistant in nature is because of the presence of chromium.
This element forms a thin and invisible coating of chromium oxide.
This layer works as a barrier against rust and corrosion.
As a result, water does not harm the underlying steel.
It is important to remember that stainless steel is water resistant, not waterproof.
So, it can save itself from everyday water contact, but it will be damaged by exposure to harsh chemicals.
WHAT PRECAUTIONS SHOULD I TAKE WHEN WEARING STAINLESS STEEL JEWELRY?
While stainless steel jewelry is resistant to corrosion, it’s still advisable to take precautions to preserve its appearance and longevity.
Avoid exposing your jewelry to harsh chemicals such as chlorine, bleach, and abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the metal and cause it to lose its shine.
After showering, bathing or swimming, rinse your stainless steel jewelry under clean running water and gently pat your jewelry dry with a soft cloth to remove any water spots or soap residue and store it in a clean, dry place away from moisture.
THE SHOWER TEST: FACT OR FICTION?
Contrary to prevailing misconceptions, stainless steel jewelry exhibits exceptional resilience in wet environments, defying the common notion that water exposure inevitably leads to damage.
Its durable nature enables it to withstand frequent water exposure without compromising its appearance.
Unlike other materials, stainless steel is remarkably resistant to the detrimental effects of moisture, rendering it an ideal choice for everyday wear.
Notably, stainless steel jewelry remains impervious to rust, tarnish, and corrosion, allowing you to wear it confidently in the shower or other wet environments without fear of discoloration or degradation.
CARE TIPS FOR SHOWERING WITH STAINLESS STEEL JEWELRY
1. REGULAR CLEANING
It is absolutely safe to wear stainless steel jewelry in the shower.
Nevertheless, you should pay attention towards the cleanliness of your jewelry.
Regular cleaning prevents the jewelry from losing its luster and shine because of the soap residue.
Read The Blog Post: How To Clean Stainless Steel Jewelry Here which will help in keeping your pieces looking their best.
2. DITCH HARSH CHEMICALS
It is extremely important to stay away from harsh chemicals when you are choosing a cleaning agent to clean your jewelry.
Harsh chemicals or cleaning agents can cause harm to the surface of your stainless steel jewelry.
Avoid the contact of chemicals like chlorine with the jewelry.
Be extra careful, especially around the pools.
WHEN IS IT SMART TO REMOVE STAINLESS STEEL JEWELRY?
1. HANDLING HARSH CHEMICALS
Stainless steel is certainly a resistant material, but it is not invincible.
If you are dealing with chemicals like chlorine bleach, ammonia-based cleaners, and oven cleaners, it is ideal to remove your stainless steel jewelry beforehand.
2. INTENSE WORKOUTS
Stainless steel is an everyday wearable piece of jewelry.
But if you are going to indulge in intense workouts, we suggest removing the jewelry to avoid discomfort and safeguarding the jewelry.
The friction from vigorous exercise can cause scratches on both your jewelry and your skin.
3. BEFORE GOING TO BED
Certain types of jewelry, like dangling earrings or chunky bracelets, can be uncomfortable to sleep in.
They might snag on your sheets or dig into your skin, interrupting your sleep.
Remove the jewelry before your bedtime for uninterrupted sleep and the probability of accidental damage to your jewelry.
A WORD OF CAUTION
While stainless steel jewelry can handle water exposure well, there are some precautions to keep in mind.
If your jewelry includes gemstones or other elements that aren’t stainless steel, it’s best to handle them with care and be cautious.
Some gemstones may not react well to extended water exposure, and non-stainless steel elements in the jewelry might not be as resilient as the main stainless steel components.
Moreover, it’s a smart habit to give your stainless steel jewelry a gentle cleaning from time to time, especially if it gets exposed to soaps, shampoos, or other shower products.
This simple step will keep its shine intact and make sure it always looks its finest.
IN CONCLUSION
Stainless steel jewelry offers a trifecta of benefits, boasting not only water resistance but also hypoallergenic properties, making it an excellent choice for individuals with sensitive skin.
Free from common allergens found in other metals, stainless steel jewelry eliminates concerns about allergic reactions or skin irritation.
Furthermore, its ease of maintenance is notable, as a simple wipe with a soft cloth can restore its pristine appearance.
As a durable and low-maintenance option, stainless steel jewelry can be confidently worn in wet environments, including showers, without fear of tarnishing or damage.
To ensure its longevity, however, it is advisable to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals like chlorine or strong cleaning products, which can compromise its surface over time.
By following these straightforward care guidelines and keeping your stainless steel jewelry clean, dry, and protected, you can enjoy your favorite pieces for years to come, preserving their beauty and shine.