The Ultimate Guide To Using an Ultrasonic Jewellery Cleaner

An ultrasonic jewellery cleaner is a compact appliance designed for safe and gentle cleaning of jewellery at home. Imagine a small countertop device with a tank that holds a cleaning solution and a basket for placing your jewellery. 

The good news is that ultrasonic cleaning machines are readily available for purchase online or in stores that sell jewellery cleaning supplies. They come in various sizes and with different features to suit your needs and budget. 

While some local jewellers might offer ultrasonic cleaning near you, having your own ultrasonic cleaning machine allows you to conveniently maintain your jewellery at home between professional cleanings.

How Does Ultrasonic Cleaning Work? 

An ultrasonic jewellery cleaner uses ultrasonic waves, which are inaudible to humans, to travel through a cleaning solution. These waves create cavitation, the rapid formation and collapse of microscopic bubbles. As these bubbles implode, they release pressure jets and shockwaves that dislodge dirt and grime, even from hidden crevices in your jewellery.

The ultrasonic cleaning solution further aids this process by transmitting the waves with the help of additional cleaning agents. This combination effectively removes dirt without harsh chemicals or scrubbing, making it a safe and gentle cleaning method for your jewellery! 

Ditch the dish soap and scrubbing! Ultrasonic jewellery cleaners offer a sparkling new way to keep your precious stones gleaming and your favourite pieces looking their best. Here are the benefits you can expect to enjoy: 

• User-Friendly Operation: Simply fill the tank, add the ultrasonic cleaning solution, and let the ultrasonic waves do the work. No scrubbing or harsh chemicals are required.
• Time and Cost Efficiency: Ultrasonic cleaners can clean your jewellery in minutes, saving you time and money compared to professional cleaning services.
• Deep and Gentle Cleaning: The cavitation process reaches deep into hidden areas, removing dirt and grime that other methods might miss, all while being gentle on your jewellery.

Ultrasonic Cleaning vs. Steam Cleaning: Which is Best? 

Steam cleaning has long been a popular method for refreshing jewellery. It works by blasting high-pressure steam through a nozzle, effectively loosening and dislodging grime and dirt from the surface. 

However, steam cleaning has limitations. While effective for some jewellery types, the intense heat can damage delicate gemstones, pearls, and pieces with loose settings. Additionally, steam can struggle to penetrate intricate details or reach hidden crevices.

On the other hand, ultrasonic cleaning for jewellery offers a gentler and more thorough alternative. Instead of relying on heat, the high-frequency sound waves and microscopic bubbles generate a powerful cleaning action that reaches deep into even the tiniest nooks and crannies of your jewellery, removing dirt, grime, and tarnish.

This method is not only gentler but also more versatile, suitable for cleaning a wider range of jewellery, gemstones and designs. While ultrasonic cleaners have a slightly higher upfront cost compared to some steam cleaners, their durability, ease of use, and superior cleaning power make them a worthwhile investment.

1. Prepare the Tank

Fill the ultrasonic cleaner tank with warm tap water. Make sure the water level reaches but doesn't exceed the fill line (usually indicated inside the tank).

2. Check Your Jewellery

Before cleaning, inspect your jewellery for any loose stones or damaged settings. It's best to have these repaired by a jeweller before using the ultrasonic cleaner.

3. Load the Basket

Place your jewellery pieces gently in the provided metal basket. Spread them out evenly, ensuring all surfaces of the charms and findings are exposed to the cleaning solution.

4. Turn on the Ultrasonic Jewellery Cleaner

Locate the black "Power" switch and press it firmly to turn on the ultrasonic cleaner.

5. Rinse and Dry

Once the cleaning cycle is complete, rinse your jewellery thoroughly with cool water to remove any leftover cleaning solution. Pat them dry with a soft, clean cloth.

Expert Tips for Successful Ultrasonic Jewellery Cleaning

While the basic steps are straightforward, here are some additional tips to ensure safe and sparkling results with your ultrasonic cleaner:

• Consult the Manual: Different ultrasonic cleaners may have slight variations in operation. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific details and safety precautions for your unit.
• Use Mild Soaps: A gentle liquid soap mixed with water is all you need for most jewellery cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage your precious pieces.
• Loose or Fragile Stones: Ultrasonic cleaners aren't suitable for jewellery with loose stones, delicate settings, or fragile materials like pearls or opals. If you're unsure about your jewellery's construction, consult a professional jeweller.
• Regular Cleaning: Incorporating regular ultrasonic cleaning into your jewellery care routine can help maintain its brilliance and longevity. 

Learn more expect jewellery cleaning tips and common mistakes to avoid in our blog, Why Can Engagement Ring Cleaning Be Dangerous?

Best Ultrasonic Jewellery Cleaners in Australia: A Buying Guide

Are you thinking of investing in an ultrasonic jewellery cleaner in Australia? Consider these factors:

• Frequency and Power: Higher frequency and power ratings generally indicate more robust cleaning capabilities. For jewellery that requires significant cleaning or pieces with intricate details, a cleaner with a higher frequency (measured in kHz) might be more effective.

• Additional Features: Some cleaners offer features like timers, automatic shut-off, and heating functions. Timers allow you to customise cleaning cycles, while automatic shut-off prevents the machine from overheating. Heating can improve the cleaning performance, especially for greasy residues. Choose features that best suit your needs.

• Portable or Home Use: Consider the cleaner's size and portability. If you travel frequently with your jewellery, a smaller, more compact model might be preferable. For frequent use at home, a larger cleaner with more capacity might be a better option.

• Budget: The price of ultrasonic jewellery cleaners in Australia varies from around $100 - $1000, depending on their features and capabilities. Consider your budget before making a purchase, and consider the features that are most important to you.

You may want to explore Sarah & Sebastian’s Ultrasonic Jewellery Cleaner as an option.

Remember, ultrasonic cleaning for jewellery is a great tool for maintenance, but it's not a substitute for professional care. If your jewellery has loose settings, or damaged stones, or needs extensive restoration, consult a qualified jeweller. 

You may also want to consider having your jewellery professionally inspected and cleaned periodically, especially for frequently worn pieces

Final Thoughts: Are Ultrasonic Jewellery Cleaners Worth the Investment? 

Here at Q Report, we believe your jewellery deserves to shine. Our experts recommend consulting your jeweller on the cleaning and maintenance because they offer safe and effective recommendations to remove grime and restore the brilliance of your treasured pieces. An Ultrasonic Jewellery Cleaner may be a small investment that pays off in long-lasting sparkle for your favourite necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. 

To supplement your new cleaning routine, consider comprehensive coverage from Q Report. Our specialised jewellery insurance in Australia covers against loss, theft, and even accidental damage, ensuring your most precious pieces are covered. To get a price in seconds, try our free jewellery insurance calculator online today.