💧 Can You Wear Jewelry in the Shower, Swimming Pool, Ocean, or to Sleep? Here’s What You Should Know

You just bought that perfect chain, bracelet, or pair of earrings — and now you’re wondering:

Can I wear this every day, even in the shower or while I sleep?

At Infinite Jewelers, we want you to get the most out of your sterling silver and solid gold jewelry while keeping it looking its best. In this guide, we’ll break down when it’s safe to wear your jewelry — and when it’s better to take it off.


🚿 Can You Wear Jewelry in the Shower?

🔸 Sterling Silver:

Not recommended.

Water alone won’t damage sterling silver, but repeated exposure to moisture, soaps, shampoos, and conditioners can accelerate tarnishing. Over time, silver can lose its shine and develop dark spots.

 

🔸 Solid Gold (10k, 14k, 18k):

Yes, but with caution.

Solid gold won’t tarnish, but soaps and mineral buildup can dull its shine over time. If you do wear it in the shower, give it a gentle wipe afterward.

💡 Pro Tip: Always pat your jewelry dry with a soft cloth after it gets wet.

 

🏊Can You Wear Jewelry in the Pool?

🔥 Quick Answer: No — for both sterling silver and solid gold.

  • Chlorine is harsh and will cause corrosion, especially in sterling silver.
  • Repeated exposure to pool chemicals can cause discoloration and pitting (tiny surface damage) even on solid gold.

Best Practice: Take your jewelry off before entering any chlorinated pool or hot tub.

 

🌊 Can You Wear Jewelry in the Ocean?

🌊 Ocean water = salt + minerals → bad for jewelry.

  • Sterling Silver: Saltwater causes rapid tarnishing and surface erosion.
  • Solid Gold: Can withstand saltwater better, but may still corrode over time — especially 10k or 14k gold which contains more alloy metals.

Also: Cold water can shrink your fingers → increased risk of losing rings or bracelets.

Verdict: Leave your jewelry on dry land when hitting the beach.


🛏️ Can You Sleep in Your Jewelry?

🔸 Sterling Silver:

Not ideal. Tossing and turning can cause chains or earrings to bend, tangle, or catch on fabric, especially with delicate pieces.

 

🔸 Solid Gold:

Yes, but depends on the piece. Small, comfortable earrings or simple chains are okay for sleep — but chunky Cuban links, tennis chains, or large earrings should come off.

Why remove jewelry at night?

  • Prevents accidental damage or snagging
  • Reduces exposure to sweat and skin oils that build up overnight
  • Keeps your skin safe if you have sensitive ears or skin

 

🧼 Best Practices to Keep Jewelry Looking New

Here’s what we recommend to maintain your Infinite Jewelers pieces:

  • 💧 Remove jewelry before swimming or showering
  • 🧴 Keep away from lotions, sprays, and chemicals
  • 🧼 Wipe jewelry clean after each wear
  • 📦 Store in an anti-tarnish pouch or dry jewelry box
  • 🔁 Clean sterling silver and gold with mild soap and a soft cloth regularly

 

🛍️ Quality Jewelry Deserves Quality Care

 

Whether you’re rocking one of our solid gold Miami Cuban links, sterling silver rope chains, or iced-out moissanite studs, keeping them clean and safe will protect your investment — and your style.


Looking for care instructions or professional cleaning? Contact us here — we’re happy to help.

Back to blog