How to Clean a Crown or Tiara

Crowns and tiaras are products of special occasions and special memories that you want to preserve and remember for years to come. Keeping your tiara in good condition takes care and proper cleaning. Here are the cleaning methods to keep your tiara free of dust and dirt and looking as glamorous as the first time it was worn.

• Rubbing alcohol or Jewelry cleaner
• White vinegar
• Jeweler’s cloth
• Cotton swabs
• Hair dryer
• Baby toothbrush

1. Moisten a jeweler’s cloth with a small amount of jewelry cleaner or rubbing alcohol.
2. Gently wipe the surface of the tiara to remove any dust or dirt build up.
3. For small crevices and designs, moisten a cotton swab and rub it in the tight areas.
4. For built up dirt or stains, clean it gently with a baby toothbrush and jewelry cleaner.
5. Vinegar diluted with water can be used to cut through build up of hairspray. Mix one part vinegar with four parts water. Apply it with a soft cloth or cotton swab.
6. Rinse away vinegar with clean water.
7. Set the tiara on a soft cloth or towel and allow it to air dry completely.
8. If you need to dry it quickly, use the low, cool setting on a hair dryer.

• Do not immerse tiaras or crowns in water. The excess liquid can cause the metal behind the jewels to tarnish or rust.
• If the tiara is of value or old, have it professionally cleaned by a jeweler.
• Do not use any abrasive scrubbers on a tiara as it can scratch the metal and/or embellishments.
• Ensure any cleaning product used is safe for the metal the tiara is made out of. Check the labels carefully. If you are unsure, test a small area first.