Can I Clean My Diamond Ring With Toothpaste? The Surprising Truth

If you’ve noticed your engagement ring looking a bit dull, your first instinct might be to reach for a toothbrush and a tube of Crest. It seems logical—toothpaste makes your teeth sparkle, so why wouldn’t it do the same for a diamond?

However, before you apply that paste to your precious jewelry, there are some critical things you need to know. At White Diamonds Utah, we want your jewelry to last a lifetime, and that starts with proper maintenance.

Can I Clean My Diamond Ring With Toothpaste??

The short answer is: Generally, no. While diamonds are the hardest natural substance on Earth, the metal settings that hold them (like gold, silver, and platinum) are much softer. Using toothpaste to clean your ring can lead to several long-term issues:

• Abrasiveness: Most toothpastes contain tiny abrasive particles designed to scrub plaque off enamel. These particles can micro-scratch the surface of precious metals, dulling the high-polish finish over time.

• Chemical Film: Many modern toothpastes contain whitening agents, fluoride, and artificial colors. These chemicals can leave a waxy film on the diamond, actually making it look less brilliant than before.

• Hard-to-Reach Residue: Toothpaste is thick. If it gets trapped under the diamond or inside the setting, it can harden like cement, making it even harder to clean later.

The Professional Cleaning Alternative about Cleaning Your Diamond Ring With Toothpaste

Instead of risking a DIY mishap, the safest way to clean your diamond ring at home is much simpler and gentler.

For weekly maintenance and oil removal, the best method is a simple soak. Place your ring in a bowl of warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap for 20 to 40 minutes. Then, gently brush the stone with a very soft-bristle toothbrush and rinse under warm running water—just make sure the drain is plugged! Finally, dry it with a lint-free cloth.

While this at-home method is great for surface oils, it doesn't replace a professional ultrasonic cleaning, which provides a deep clean and allows for a security check of the stones.

When to See a Professional

Even with the best at-home care, your ring should visit a jeweler at least twice a year. Professional cleaning doesn't just restore the "fire" to your diamond; it allows a jeweler to inspect the prongs and settings.

If a prong is loose or worn down, your diamond could fall out. A professional cleaning at White Diamonds Utah includes a full inspection to ensure your investment is secure. Remember to never use bleach, chlorine, or acetone on your jewelry, as these harsh chemicals can break down the alloys in gold, making the metal brittle and prone to snapping.

Keep Your Sparkle Forever

Your diamond ring represents a significant moment in your life. While the "toothpaste hack" is a popular internet myth, sticking to gentle soap or professional services is the only way to guarantee your ring stays as radiant as the day you first saw it.

Contact White Diamonds Utah today to schedule a professional cleaning and inspection for your ring at our showroom.