How to Care for Your Anklet

Anklets are fun pieces of jewelry that can add some carefree whimsy to your look. They come in all kinds of colors, materials, and styles, and layering them can switch up your vibe in a second. But since they’re on your ankle, they’ll likely encounter some wear and tear. Brushing against your shoes and being so close to the street (especially in cities where puddles seem to appear out of nowhere) can cause damage over time. In this article, we’ll give you helpful tricks to clean, store, and care for your anklet jewelry. Let’s dive in!

Cleaning Your Anklet

Regularly cleaning your anklet is an important part of keeping it looking as good as new. Over time, residue can build up on your anklet, dulling its shine or coating it with visible dirt. A gentle wipe down at the end of the day can help you prevent buildup from things like lotion, sunscreen, bacteria, or other grime your anklet encounters. 

If you have an anklet made of metal, you can use a soft cloth to gently wipe it down, or you can carefully clean the anklet with warm water and dish soap. If your anklet is made of other materials, like leather, resin, or lace, it's best not to get it wet while cleaning it. Be sure to follow any specific directions from the artist or retailer.   

No matter what material it’s made from, it’s generally wise to keep your anklet away from any jewelry cleaning solutions or chemicals. These products contain ingredients that could tarnish or corrode your anklet, so it’s better to stay on the safe side and avoid them completely. If your anklet needs some heavy duty cleaning, take it to your jeweler for a professional treatment. They’ll be able to use specific tools and years of experience to clean and polish your anklet thoroughly.

Storing Your Anklet

When you’re not wearing your anklet, it’s important to store it safely to prevent any damage. Store it in a soft pouch or box, away from other pieces of jewelry that could scratch it. Tangle-free storage is also key; try using small compartments or dividers to keep multiple anklets from knotting up. Proper storage will help keep your anklet looking pristine and ready to wear for many seasons.   

Preventing Damage 

Day-to-day wear and tear is expected for anklets, but you can take some steps to prevent excessive damage. Do your best to avoid submerging your anklet in water like pools, hot tubs, or baths. The chemicals and heat can be damaging, plus water can corrode metals over time. If your anklet does happen to get wet, remember to dry it thoroughly.

It’s also important to be mindful of snags. Anklets can easily catch on fabrics like jeans, socks, or stockings. Wearing your anklet over bare skin minimizes this risk. It’s also a good idea to give your anklet a break every now and then to make sure it stays in good condition; constant wear speeds up damage, so try giving your anklet a day off periodically. If you have a few anklets, even better — rotate between them to spread out the wear.

When to Seek Repairs

Even with proper care, anklets can eventually show signs of needing repair. Here are some things to look out for:

• Clasp or fastener damage: If the clasp or fastener is loose, bent, or broken, it likely needs professional repair. Don't try fixing the clasp yourself, because replacing it requires special tools and experience.
• Missing stones or beads: If the stones or beads fall off, it’s a good idea to visit your jeweler to have them replaced. The jeweler can also check the security of the other stones and beads to make sure they’re nice and secure. 
• Fading: Fading is especially common for enamel or metal-plated anklets. If your anklet looks duller than it once did, you can get the enamel repaired to make it brighter or gold plate the anklet to give it more luster. Or even opt for a new color!
• Stretched out shape: Repeated wear can cause thin chains to lose their shape. A jeweler can resize your anklet to make sure it fits well. 

Making sure your anklet is properly cleaned, stored, and maintained can help you keep your jewelry in great condition for years to come. Need your anklet clasp replaced? Our expert jewelers at Quick Jewelry Repairs can give you a hand.