How to store jewelry properly: avoid scratches, moisture, and tangling
Short answer: Store jewelry in a dry place, separately, and protected from moisture, perfume, and friction. Ideally, use a jewelry box, small pouches, or separate compartments so chains don't tangle and surfaces don't scratch each other.
This guide is specifically about jewelry storage. If you want a broader guide to daily care, water, perfume, and wear, read How to best care for your jewelry every day?.
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 you leave jewelry out, avoid places near the sink, windowsill, or other areas where it is often exposed to water, cosmetics, or sunlight.
Store jewelry separately
When several pieces of jewelry are placed directly on top of each other, they can rub against one another and get small scratches. Chains can also get tangled, and coated surfaces can be affected by friction.
So, it's best to use:
- separate compartments in a jewelry box
- small soft pouches
- individual boxes
- small divided trays
How to store necklaces
Necklaces tangle easily. So 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 getting tangled with other jewelry.
How to store earrings
Store earrings in pairs so you don't lose one. Stud earrings can be placed on a small card or stored in a separate compartment, while larger earrings should be stored so they don't press against other jewelry.
If the earrings have stones, enamel, or a coating, storing them separately is especially practical to limit scratches and friction.
How to store rings and bracelets
Rings can be stored in small compartments or on a ring holder so they don't knock against each other. Bracelets should be stored separately or in larger compartments where they won't be pressed together with other jewelry.
If the jewelry is gold-plated or silver-plated, it is best to avoid unnecessary contact with hard surfaces.
Should jewelry be kept in the bathroom?
It's generally best to avoid using the bathroom as a regular storage place because humidity is often higher there. Water vapor and moisture can affect the surface of many types of jewelry over time.
If you take jewelry off before showering, put it somewhere dry instead of by the sink or in the shower area.
What should you do before putting jewelry away?
Gently wipe them with a soft, dry cloth if they have come into 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 surface coatings that can be affected by water, perfume, creams, and friction. That's why dry, separate storage is especially important for this type of jewelry.
To learn more about water and plating, read Can you shower with gold-plated jewelry?.
A simple storage routine
- Remove the jewelry before showering, exercising, or going to bed, if this is appropriate for the jewelry's care instructions.
- Gently wipe the surface with a soft, dry cloth.
- Make sure the jewelry is completely dry.
- Fasten necklace 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 avoid placing jewelry directly on top of each other and having it rub together.
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 getting tangled?
Store each piece separately, close the clasp, and lay it flat or hang it separately.
How do you best care for gold-plated jewelry?
Avoid unnecessary contact with water, perfume, and creams, wipe the jewelry after use, and store it in a dry place, separately. Also see our complete jewelry care guide.
See more jewelry guides
See our practical jewelry guides or all jewelry at Lilla Villa.