We’ve all been there—you’re about to hop in the shower and suddenly wonder, Should I take my jewellery off? Whether it’s your everyday necklace or a sentimental ring, knowing which pieces can handle water exposure is key to keeping them looking their best. In this guide, we’ll break down which types of jewellery are safe to wear in the shower and which should be removed.
Is It Safe to Wear Jewellery in the Shower?
The short answer: It depends on the material. While some metals and gemstones can withstand water exposure, others can tarnish, discolour, or become damaged over time.
Jewellery You Should NOT Wear in the Shower
Sterling Silver – Water and humidity can cause sterling silver to tarnish faster, leaving it dull and discoloured. Always remove silver jewellery before showering.
Gold-Plated Jewellery – The thin layer of gold on gold-plated pieces can wear away when exposed to water and soap, leading to fading or peeling.
Costume & Fashion Jewellery – Made from base metals like copper or brass, fashion jewellery can corrode or turn your skin green when exposed to water.
Pearls & Soft Gemstones – Pearls, opals, and other porous gemstones can absorb water and chemicals, leading to dullness and potential damage.
Jewellery That’s Safe to Wear in the Shower
Solid Gold (14k or Higher) – While gold won’t rust, frequent exposure to soap and shampoo can cause buildup, dulling its shine. Rinse well if worn in the shower.
Stainless Steel – This durable metal is resistant to rust and tarnishing, making it one of the best options for water-friendly jewellery.
Platinum – Highly resistant to water and everyday wear, platinum jewellery won’t tarnish or corrode, but it may develop a natural patina over time.
How to Protect Your Jewellery from Water Damage
Remove jewellery before showering – If in doubt, take it off! Keeping your pieces dry will extend their lifespan.
Store properly – Keep your jewellery in a dry, airtight container or anti-tarnish bag when not in use to prevent tarnishing.
Clean regularly – If your jewellery is exposed to water, wipe it down with a soft cloth and use a gentle jewellery cleaner to remove soap residue.
Final Verdict: Should You Shower with Jewellery?
While some jewellery can handle occasional water exposure, it’s always best to remove your pieces before showering to prevent tarnishing, fading, or damage. If you love jewellery you never have to take off, opt for stainless steel, solid gold, or platinum pieces.