The secret to this low-effort jewelry cleaning method lies in a combination of common household items and a bit of science. My grandma’s method is easy, requires minimal ingredients, and works like magic on most types of jewelry, from gold and silver to diamonds and gemstones.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

A bowl (preferably glass or ceramic)
Aluminum foil
Hot water (not boiling, just hot enough to be effective)
Baking soda (a natural cleaning agent)
Salt (enhances the cleaning process)
Mild dish soap (optional for extra grease removal)
A soft cloth or a toothbrush (for gentle scrubbing, if necessary)

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Solution
Start by lining the bowl with aluminum foil, shiny side up. The aluminum foil is a key player in this cleaning method because it initiates a chemical reaction that helps remove tarnish from the jewelry.

Next, fill the bowl with hot water. The water should be hot, but not so hot that it could damage delicate stones or metalwork. If you’re cleaning delicate pieces, lukewarm water might be safer.

Step 2: Add the Cleaning Agents
Add one tablespoon of baking soda and one tablespoon of salt to the hot water. The baking soda will help to neutralize acids and break down dirt, while the salt enhances the electrolytic reaction that will pull tarnish away from your jewelry.

You can also add a drop or two of mild dish soap at this stage. The dish soap helps to dissolve any grease or oil that might be on the jewelry, making the cleaning process even more effective.

Step 3: Immerse the Jewelry
Place your jewelry pieces into the bowl, ensuring they make contact with the aluminum foil. The foil will create a slight electrical current that helps to loosen the tarnish on the metal. You may notice some bubbling or fizzing—this is a good sign that the chemical reaction is taking place.

Step 4: Wait and Watch
Let the jewelry soak in the solution for about 10-15 minutes. During this time, the baking soda and salt will work together to lift away dirt and tarnish, while the aluminum foil pulls the tarnish off the metal.

For particularly tarnished pieces, you may need to leave them in a bit longer. If you’re in a hurry, you can gently rub the jewelry with a soft cloth or a toothbrush to speed up the process.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry
After soaking, remove the jewelry from the bowl and rinse it under cool, running water. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove any residue from the cleaning agents.

Pat the jewelry dry with a soft cloth. Avoid using tissues or paper towels, as these can leave fibers on the jewelry or cause scratches. For pieces with intricate designs, you can use a soft toothbrush to reach into crevices and ensure all dirt is removed.

This cleaning method works thanks to a bit of chemistry. The aluminum foil, baking soda, and salt create a reaction that lifts tarnish from the metal. Tarnish is a layer of corrosion that forms when metals like silver react with sulfur in the air. The aluminum foil attracts the tarnish through a process called ion exchange, effectively transferring the tarnish from your jewelry onto the foil.

The hot water and baking soda help to loosen dirt and grime, while the dish soap cuts through any oils or residues that have accumulated on your jewelry. This combination not only cleans your jewelry but also restores its original shine without the need for harsh chemicals or intensive scrubbing.