While it’s tempting to wear your sparkling new ring all the time, there are certain situations where it’s best to take it off. From everyday activities to special occasions, knowing when to leave your ring on the dresser can prevent damage and extend its brilliance. In this blog, we’ll guide you through common activities that pose risks to your engagement ring and offer practical tips to keep it looking as perfect as the day it was slipped onto your finger.
Water Exposure
Swimming and Water Sports
Water activities like swimming, surfing, or water skiing can be harsh on your engagement ring. Cooler water may cause your fingers to shrink, making it easier for the ring to slip off unnoticed. Additionally, chlorine in pools and salt in the ocean can corrode metals and loosen gem settings.
Doing the Dishes
Dishwashing detergents contain chemicals that can dull and even scratch the finish of your ring. The prolonged exposure to water and soapy solutions can also alter the appearance of the metal and loosen the settings of any stones.
Showering and Bathing
Showering or bathing with your engagement ring on might expose it to a variety of shampoos and soaps, which, while great for you, aren't so good for your ring. These products can leave a filmy residue on your ring and over time, can harm the metal and cloud the brilliance of your stones. To keep your ring sparkling, it's best to remove it before stepping into the shower or bath.
Physical Activities
Exercise and Gym Activities
When hitting the gym or engaging in any form of exercise, it's best to leave your engagement ring off. The risks range from the ring getting caught on equipment, which could not only damage the ring but also cause injury, to the sweat and grime that can accumulate and dull the shine of your precious stone.
Moving or Lifting Heavy Objects
Be cautious when moving or lifting heavy objects with your engagement ring on. The pressure and strain exerted during such activities can easily distort the shape of your ring or loosen its stones. Whether you're rearranging furniture or lifting boxes, removing your ring can prevent unexpected damage and ensure that your treasured piece remains in perfect condition. Even clapping with other rings on the other hand can cause damage to your engagement ring!
Gardening and Outdoor Work
Gardening might seem like a gentle activity, but it's actually fraught with hazards for your engagement ring. Soil and small stones can scratch the metal or get lodged in the setting, potentially dislodging the stones. Moreover, the force used when handling gardening tools can misshape the band.
Chemical Exposure
Cleaning with Chemicals
Many common household cleaners contain abrasive substances that can scratch or tarnish the metal of your ring, and the harsh chemicals can wreak havoc on delicate gem settings. It’s wise to remove your ring before diving into your cleaning routine. This way, you avoid any potential reactions that could alter the appearance of your ring. You could also wear gloves, but it's generally safer to just take the ring off!
Using Hairspray and Perfumes
The alcohol and other chemicals in these products can damage the metal over time and dim the brilliance of the stones. By making it a rule to apply these products before putting on your ring, you can keep those essential final touches from becoming detrimental to the shine and health of your engagement ring.
Applying Lotions and Cosmetics
Lotions, sunscreens, and makeup are essentials for many of us, but they can be a nightmare for your engagement ring. These products often leave a filmy residue on your ring, making it look dull and lifeless. More worryingly, they can also build up around the settings and stones, making cleaning a much more difficult task.
Daily Activities
Cooking and Baking
Ingredients and heat can do more than just spoil your meal; they can damage your ring. Flour, oils, and other common cooking substances can get trapped in and dull the sparkle of gemstones or erode the metal over time. So, before you start kneading dough or sautéing vegetables, consider stashing your ring in a safe spot.
Sleeping with Your Ring On
Wearing your ring while sleeping could lead to bent prongs or a misshapen band, especially if you move a lot or put pressure on your hands, and there's always a risk of snagging it on your bedding. Swollen fingers in the morning? That’s another reason to give your ring a break.
Sports
The risk of damaging your ring during physical activity is high, whether you're catching a ball, swinging a racket, or even just running. Impacts can bend the band, dislodge stones, or scratch the metal. Additionally, vigorous movement can cause your ring to slip off unexpectedly.
FAQs
Can I wash my hands while wearing my engagement ring?
It's generally safe to wash your hands with your engagement ring on, but for extra care, especially when using harsh soaps or in public places, consider removing it to avoid potential damage or loss.
Should you sleep with your engagement ring on?
No, it’s best to remove your engagement ring before bed to prevent accidental damage, such as bending the band or loosening the stones due to pressure or snagging.
When shouldn't you wear your engagement ring?
Avoid wearing your engagement ring during activities that can expose it to harsh chemicals, excessive force, or potential loss, such as cleaning, cooking, exercising, and swimming.
Is it OK to get an engagement ring wet?
While occasional water exposure is generally harmless, frequent or prolonged contact with water, especially chlorinated or salty water, can damage the metal and stones.
Can you wash your hair with your engagement ring on?
It's advisable to remove your engagement ring before washing your hair to prevent build-up of hair products and to avoid tangling or pulling which can damage the ring.
