Sometimes things happen, and the need may arise for your chainmaille to need a cleaning. So here's some cleaning recommendations to help keep your chainmaille looking good.

A good go to is using mild liquid hand or dish soap with warm water. Simply put your jewelry (or fidget) in a bowl with the water and soap can make it a bit easier to get a thorough clean. If it's a bit extra dirty, gently polish (as to not scratch the metal) with a soft cloth while in the bowl.

Be sure to rinse thoroughly, and most importantly dry completely! Using a clean cotton towel works well. Making sure the item is completely dry before storing or wearing/using helps prevent any moisture issues.

A soft cloth works well for any material here to give it a quick clean or shine. Microfiber cloths which work for cleaning glasses can typically also work well for cleaning chainmaille jewelry. Just make sure not to use that same cloth on your glasses afterward.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a really durable and low maintenance material for jewelry. It holds up if you wear it in the pool or even shower, and it's safe for sensitive skin.

Though it is best to clean it on occasion to keep it looking it's best, and for longevity. This can be with a soft towel (such as microfiber) or liquid soap and water.

Anodized Aluminum

When it comes to cleaning aluminum, in particular anodized aluminum, it's best to use a mild liquid soap with a neutral PH.

With anodized aluminum, it is best to limit it's exposure to UV light, harsh cleaning chemicals, and mechanical abrasion. This helps to keep it looking it's best.

How does anodized aluminum get it's color? Anodizing happens when the aluminum is placed in an electrolyte solution, then passing an electrical current through the aluminum. This creates a protective oxide layer. Different colors are produced by changing the amps (amperes) of the electric current.

Aluminum works well for jewelry because it is lightweight, and also a good choice for sensitive skin.

Sterling Silver, Copper, and Brass

In order to help minimize tarnish or discoloration, limit excess exposure while wearing silver, copper, and brass jewelry. This includes things such as during working out, swimming, in high humidity, at the beach, or in the sun for long periods of time.

These materials especially get the most benefit from being cleaned regularly with a microfiber cloth to help keep the tarnish at bay. There are also jewelry polishing clothes available specifically for these materials.

Storage Recommendations

When not in use, storing your chainmaille jewelry in individual fabric bags and/or a jewelry box is ideal. Silica gel packets are useful for enclosed spaces to keep humidity in check (especially to minimize tarnish on copper and silver items).

Fidget toys are typically just fine to keep where you use them. Same goes for wallet chains and accessories.