Polymer clay jewellery is popular thanks to its lightweight feel, vibrant colours, and unique handcrafted designs. Whether you've purchased a statement pair of earrings, a delicate necklace, or a custom-made accessory, proper care can help keep your polymer clay jewellery looking beautiful for years to come.
While polymer clay is surprisingly durable, it still benefits from a little extra attention. In this guide, I'll share simple tips for cleaning, storing, and protecting your polymer clay jewellery so you can enjoy your favourite pieces for as long as possible.
Is Polymer Clay Jewellery Durable?
Yes! When properly conditioned and baked, polymer clay becomes a strong and flexible material that can withstand everyday wear. However, like any handcrafted jewellery, it should be treated with care to avoid scratches, damage, or unnecessary wear and tear.
The good news is that a few simple habits can make a significant difference in maintaining its appearance.
Keep Jewellery Away from Water
Although polymer clay itself is water-resistant, prolonged exposure to water can affect other components of your jewellery, such as metal findings, jump rings, and earring hooks.
To protect your pieces:
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Remove jewellery before swimming.
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Avoid wearing it in the shower, bath, hot tubs or saunas.
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Dry it promptly if it becomes wet.
Keeping moisture exposure to a minimum will help prevent tarnishing and extend the life of your jewellery.
Avoid Contact with Chemicals
Many everyday products contain chemicals that can dull finishes, damage protective coatings, or affect the appearance of polymer clay jewellery.
Try to avoid contact with:
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Perfume
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Hairspray
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Sunscreen
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Moisturisers
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Cleaning products
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Makeup
A good rule of thumb is to put your jewellery on last when getting ready and remove it first at the end of the day.
Store Pieces Carefully
Proper storage helps prevent scratches, bending, and accidental damage.
For best results:
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Store jewellery in a clean, dry place.
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Keep pieces in a jewellery box, pouch, or compartmentalised organiser.
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Avoid stacking multiple pieces on top of one another.
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Protect earrings and necklaces from becoming tangled.
Keeping your jewellery separate from harder materials such as metal or gemstones can help preserve its finish.
Clean Gently When Needed
Polymer clay jewellery can accumulate dust, oils, and fingerprints over time. Fortunately, cleaning is usually quick and easy.
To clean your jewellery:
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Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe the surface.
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For stubborn marks, lightly dampen the cloth with water.
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Dry thoroughly after cleaning.
Avoid abrasive cleaners, rough scrubbing pads, or harsh chemicals, as these can scratch or damage the surface.
Handle with Care
While polymer clay is durable, handcrafted pieces can still break if subjected to excessive force.
To avoid accidental damage:
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Do not bend jewellery intentionally.
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Remove pieces before exercising or playing sports.
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Avoid dropping jewellery onto hard surfaces.
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Take care when fastening or removing earrings and necklaces.
Treating your jewellery gently will help preserve both its appearance and structural integrity.
Protect from Extreme Temperatures
Polymer clay jewellery performs best under normal everyday conditions.
To keep it in excellent condition:
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Avoid leaving jewellery in direct sunlight for extended periods.
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Do not store pieces in extremely hot locations, such as inside a parked car.
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Keep jewellery away from open flames and heat sources.
Extreme temperatures may affect certain finishes or adhesives used in handmade designs.
What to Do If Your Jewellery Gets Dirty
If makeup, dust, or everyday grime builds up on your polymer clay jewellery, don't panic.
A gentle wipe with a soft cloth is usually enough to restore its appearance. For more stubborn dirt, a small amount of mild soap and water can be used sparingly, provided the jewellery is dried thoroughly afterwards.
Always test cleaning methods on an inconspicuous area first if your piece includes painted details, metallic finishes, or resin coatings.
Caring for Handmade Jewellery
One of the things that makes polymer clay jewellery special is that each piece is handcrafted. Small variations and unique details are part of its charm.
By following a few simple care practices, you can help preserve the colours, finish, and craftsmanship that make your jewellery unique.
Polymer clay jewellery is designed to be enjoyed and worn regularly. With proper care, your favourite earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and accessories can remain beautiful for years to come.
Remember to keep your jewellery away from water and chemicals, store it carefully, clean it gently, and handle it with care. These simple steps will help protect your handcrafted pieces and ensure they continue to bring joy every time you wear them.