How to store jewelry properly: avoid scratches, moisture, and tangling
Short answer: Store jewelry in a dry, separate place protected from moisture, perfume, and friction. Preferably use a jewelry box, small pouches, or separate compartments so chains do not tangle and surfaces do not scratch each other.
This guide focuses specifically on jewelry storage. If you want a broader guide to daily care, water, perfume, and wear, read How do you best care for your jewelry in everyday life?.
Where should jewelry be stored?
The best place is a dry area with a stable temperature, away from direct sunlight and high humidity. A bedroom or a closed drawer is often more suitable than a bathroom, where humidity can be high.
If the jewelry is left out, avoid places near a sink, windowsill, or other areas where it is frequently exposed to water, cosmetics, or sunlight.
Store jewelry separately
When several pieces of jewelry are placed directly on top of one another, they can rub against each other and develop small scratches. Chains can also become tangled, and plated surfaces can be affected by friction.
It is therefore a good idea to use:
- separate compartments in a jewelry box
- small soft pouches
- individual boxes
- small divided trays
How to store necklaces
Necklaces tangle easily. Lay them flat and separately, or hang them up if you have a jewelry holder suitable for this.
Close the clasp before putting the necklace away. This makes it easier to keep the chain together and reduces the risk of it becoming tangled with other jewelry.
How to store earrings
Store earrings in pairs so you do not lose one. Stud earrings can conveniently be placed on a small card or stored in a separate compartment, while larger earrings should be positioned so they do not press against other jewelry.
If the earrings have stones, enamel, or plating, separate storage is especially practical for limiting scratches and friction.
How to store Rings and bracelets
Rings can be stored in small compartments or on a ring holder so they do not knock against each other. Bracelets should be stored separately or in larger compartments where they are not pressed together with other jewelry.
If the jewelry is gold-plated or silver-plated, it is beneficial to avoid unnecessary contact with hard surfaces.
Should jewelry be kept in the bathroom?
It is generally better to avoid using the bathroom as a regular storage place because humidity is often higher there. Steam and moisture can affect the surface of many pieces of jewelry over time.
If you take your jewelry off before showering, place it somewhere dry instead of by the sink or in the shower area.
What should you do before putting jewelry away?
Gently wipe it with a soft, dry cloth if it has been in contact with skin, sweat, or moisture. Make sure the jewelry is dry before placing it in a closed box or pouch.
If a piece of jewelry requires special cleaning, always follow the care information for the specific material.
Gold-plated and silver-plated jewelry
Platings are surfaces that can be affected by water, perfume, creams, and friction. Therefore, dry and separate storage is particularly relevant for this type of jewelry.
If you want to learn more about water and plating, read Can you shower while wearing gold-plated jewelry?.
A simple storage routine
- Take the jewelry off before showering, exercising, or going to bed, if this is appropriate according to the jewelry's care instructions.
- Gently wipe the surface with a soft, dry cloth.
- Allow the jewelry to dry completely.
- Close chain and bracelet clasps.
- Place each piece of jewelry in its own compartment or a soft pouch.
Frequently asked questions
Can jewelry be stored together in the same box?
Yes, if the box has separate compartments. The most important thing is to prevent the pieces from lying directly on top of one another and rubbing against each other.
Should jewelry be stored in plastic bags?
A small pouch can be used to keep jewelry separate, but the jewelry should be clean and completely dry before the pouch is closed. Always follow the care information for the specific material.
How can you prevent necklaces from tangling?
Store them one at a time, close the clasp, and lay them flat or hang them separately.
How do you best care for gold-plated jewelry?
Avoid unnecessary contact with water, perfume, and creams, wipe the jewelry after wearing it, and store it in a dry, separate place. See also our complete jewelry care guide.
See more jewelry guides
See our practical jewelry guides or all jewelry at Lilla Villa.