Can You Shower With Gold-plated Jewelry? 3 Key Causes Why Not

Published: 26 Feb 2025

Gold-plated Jewelry is a popular choice for jewelry and a solid, powerful alternative to pure gold.

It is much more affordable than pure gold and most importantly it has the same look and luxury that the purest form of gold offers.

It’s shiny, elegant, and perfect for adding a touch of glamour to any outfit.

But one main question that is arising in most people’s minds is;

Can you shower with gold-plated jewelry?

So guys, if I give you a direct and brief answer that is yes but not recommended.

This guide explains everything about whether you should shower with gold-plated jewelry or not. This article also highlights some of the primary damages caused by wearing gold-plated jewelry in the shower and how you can prevent these damages.

So my dear, are you ready to learn more?

Table of Content

Can You Shower With Gold-plated Jewelry? Why is it not Recommended?
1. Reasons Why You Should not Wear Gold-plated Jewelry in the Shower.
Alternatives for Showering.
How to Care for Gold-Plated Jewelry?
When to Wear Gold-Plated Jewelry?
1. Avoid These Situations
So My Champs.
Have More Queries?

Can You Shower With Gold-plated Jewelry? Why is it not Recommended?

Guys, as I shared a brief answer earlier that you can shower with gold-plated jewelry but it’s highly not recommended.

This is because multiple factors affect and damage the gold-plated jewelry that we’ll explore below.

But my dear, before we dive into deep guides on why we should not shower with gold-plated jewelry, first let’s briefly understand what gold-plated jewelry is.

Gold-plated jewelry is a type of gold made by coating a thin layer of gold to a base metal, like brass and copper.

The gold layer is highly thin as compared to gold-filled jewelry, ranging from 0.17 microns to 2.5 microns.

This thin gold layer gives it a luxurious look of pure gold at a fraction of the cost, but It can wear off over time, especially when exposed to water, chemicals, or heat.

Now guys, be ready, and let’s understand why we should not wear gold-plated jewelry in the shower.

Reasons Why You Should not Wear Gold-plated Jewelry in the Shower.

Some of the key reasons include;

Harsh Chemicals.

When we shower, we do not just bathe but many harsh chemicals containing products like soaps, shampoos, and conditioners come into the contact of our gold plated jewelry.

These products contain some of the toxic chemicals for metals like sulfates, chlorine, and phosphates that after chemically reacting with the gold layer, cause discoloration.

And the most important thing, the gold layer in gold-plated jewelry is not always pure, most of the time, it’s an alloy of gold made by mixing pure gold with

Copper
Zinc
Silver
Palladium
And platinum

If the gold layer of your gold-plated jewelry contains silver and copper then,

Chlorine can react with copper and can make copper chloride
While sulfur in those products can chemically react with silver and form silver sulfide chemical.

So the result? Your gold-plated jewelry will lose its shine and look tarnished or faded.

Trapped Moisture

Trapped moisture is a hidden problem that often goes unnoticed.

Water can get trapped in small crevices, chains, or under gemstones.

Over time, this trapped moisture causes the base metal, like brass or copper, to corrode or rust.

This not only damages the jewelry’s appearance but also weakens its structure, making it more prone to breaking.

Frequent Exposure Accelerates Wear and Tear

Frequent exposure to water, heat, and chemicals accelerates wear and tear.

Showering daily with gold-plated jewelry speeds up the deterioration process, causing the gold layer to wear off much faster.

This means your jewelry will lose its shine and elegance sooner than expected, requiring more frequent maintenance or replacement.

So guys these were the reasons why you should not wear your gold-plated jewelry in the shower.

Alternatives for Showering.

Guys, if you really love gold-plated, then I think you should take care of it, it will keep you happy for a long time.

However if you want the best alternatives that you will wear all the time, then the number one best alternative is pure gold.

It does not rust, doesn’t turn black, and most importantly does not react with other chemicals that’s why it shines every time.

After the pure gold, I’ll recommend you;

Stainless steel
And titanium

that are also durable and resistant to corrosion.

You can also wear them during the shower.

How to Care for Gold-Plated Jewelry?

I already shared what is gold-plated jewelry and how to care for it in detail.

Here I shared some points briefly on gold-plated jewelry maintenance.

However, if you want a more detailed guide, you should read my previous article on what gold-plated jewelry is and how to care for it.

Avoid Water Exposure: Remove jewelry before showering, swimming, or washing hands. Water can cause the gold layer to wear off and the base metal to tarnish.
Keep Away from Chemicals: Avoid contact with harsh chemicals like perfumes, lotions, soaps, and cleaning products. These can react with the gold plating and cause discoloration.
Store Properly: Store gold-plated jewelry in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box to prevent scratches and exposure to air, which can lead to tarnishing.
Clean Gently: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to polish the jewelry regularly. For deeper cleaning, mix mild soap with warm water, gently wipe the jewelry, and dry it immediately with a soft cloth. Make sure to avoid abrasive materials or harsh cleaners.

When to Wear Gold-Plated Jewelry?

Gold-plated jewelry is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your look and style.

Here are some best times or occasions when you must try gold-plated jewelry.

Special Events: Wear it to weddings, parties, or formal dinners where you want to make a stylish statement. Gold-plated or Gold-filled jewelry will be the best choice for these events if you can not afford expensive types of gold jewelry
Casual Outings: Elevate your everyday look by pairing gold-plated jewelry with casual outfits for lunch dates, shopping trips, or coffee meetups.
Office or Work: Add a touch of sophistication to your professional attire without going over the top.
Evening Gatherings: Perfect for dinners, concerts, or social events where you want to shine and stand out.

Avoid These Situations

Swimming: Chlorine in pools and salt in seawater can damage the gold plating.
Exercising: Sweat and friction can cause the gold layer to wear off faster.
Household Chores: Exposure to cleaning chemicals and water can tarnish or scratch the jewelry.
Showering: Water and soap can strip the gold plating over time.

By wearing gold-plated jewelry on the right occasions and avoiding harsh environments, you can keep it looking luxurious and extend its lifespan.

So My Champs.

In this article, we’ve deeply covered whether you can shower with gold-plated jewelry.

While it’s technically possible, it’s not recommended due to the risks of tarnishing, discoloration, and damage caused by water, chemicals, and moisture.

We’ve also explored the best alternatives for shower-friendly jewelry and shared essential tips on how to care for your gold-plated pieces to keep them looking their best.

Remember, gold-plated jewelry is perfect for special occasions and adds a touch of elegance to your style, but it requires proper care to maintain its shine and longevity.

By avoiding harsh environments and following the care tips shared here, you can enjoy your gold-plated jewelry for years to come.

So, treat your jewelry with love, and it will continue to make you shine!

Have More Queries?

Some questions that often arise in most people’s minds related to gold-plated jewelry and wearing.

Can I wear gold-plated jewelry every day?

Yes, you can wear gold-plated jewelry daily, but it’s best to avoid exposing it to water, sweat, or chemicals. For long-lasting wear, consider using it for special occasions or opt for more durable alternatives like stainless steel or titanium for everyday use. Proper care, such as storing it in a jewelry box and cleaning it gently, will help maintain its shine and longevity.

Can I clean gold-plated jewelry at home?

Yes, you can clean gold-plated jewelry at home using a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Gently wipe the jewelry to remove dirt and oils, then dry it immediately with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive materials, or ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the gold plating. For deep cleaning, consult a professional jeweler.

Can I wear gold-plated jewelry in the pool?

No, it’s not recommended to wear gold-plated jewelry in the pool. Chlorine in pool water can react with the gold plating and base metal, causing discoloration and tarnishing. Saltwater can also damage the jewelry. Always remove gold-plated jewelry before swimming to preserve its appearance and longevity.

Can I shower with gold-plated jewelry if I dry it immediately?

Even if you dry it immediately, showering with gold-plated jewelry is not recommended. Water and soap can still seep into small crevices and cause the gold layer to wear off over time. To maintain its shine and durability, it’s best to remove gold-plated jewelry before showering or any water-related activities.

What’s the best way to store gold-plated jewelry?

The best way to store gold-plated jewelry is in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box, away from moisture and air. Keep pieces separate to prevent scratches and tangling. Avoid storing it in humid areas like bathrooms. Using anti-tarnish strips or silica gel packets in your storage box can also help prevent tarnishing.

Can I re-plate my gold-plated jewelry?

Yes, you can re-plate your gold-plated jewelry to restore its shine. A professional jeweler can apply a new layer of gold to the piece, making it look brand new. Replating is a cost-effective option if the base metal is still in good condition but the gold layer has worn off. Regular maintenance can reduce the need for frequent replating.

Is gold-plated jewelry hypoallergenic?

Not always. The base metal (like brass or copper) in gold-plated jewelry can cause allergic reactions for those with sensitive skin. If you have allergies, opt for hypoallergenic alternatives like stainless steel, titanium, or solid gold. Always check the materials used in your jewelry to avoid skin irritation.

Can You Wear Gold-Plated Jewelry in the Shower?

No, it’s not recommended to wear gold-plated jewelry in the shower. Water, soap, and shampoo can cause the thin gold layer to wear off over time, leading to tarnishing and discoloration. The base metal underneath may also corrode or rust when exposed to moisture. To preserve the jewelry’s shine and longevity, always remove it before showering. Proper care and avoiding water exposure will keep your gold-plated jewelry looking its best.

Can You Wear Gold-Plated Sterling Silver in the Shower?

No, you should avoid wearing gold-plated sterling silver in the shower. While sterling silver is more durable than other base metals, the gold plating can still wear off when exposed to water and chemicals. Additionally, sterling silver can tarnish when exposed to moisture over time. To protect your jewelry, remove it before showering and store it in a dry place. Regular cleaning and proper storage will help maintain its appearance.

Can You Wear Gold-Plated Stainless Steel in the Shower?

Gold-plated stainless steel is more durable than other gold-plated jewelry, but it’s still not ideal for showering. While stainless steel is water-resistant, the gold plating can wear off over time due to exposure to water, soap, and chemicals. To extend the life of your jewelry, it’s best to remove it before showering. If you want shower-friendly jewelry, consider solid stainless steel or titanium without gold plating.