Swarovski crystals are known for their unmistakable sparkle, high-quality cut, and luxury finish. Whether they've been attached to fabric, sewn onto a costume, glued onto a pair of shoes, or heat fixed to a bridal veil, these little gems are designed to catch the light and make an impact. But over time, everyday wear can cause dirt, grease, makeup and dust to dull their shine.

In this guide, we'll show you how to clean Swarovski crystals safely after they've been applied, share a few simple do's and don'ts, and explain the best ways to keep Swarovski crystals shiny without damaging or loosening them. So, let's bring that sparkle back!

Why It's Important to Clean Swarovski Crystals Properly

If you've ever looked at your embellished piece and thought it's lost its shine, you're not imagining things. Oils from your skin, makeup, sweat and general dust in the air can all settle on the surface of crystals, making them appear cloudy or dull. Knowing how to clean a Swarovski crystal in the right way is key to preserving its brilliant sparkle for as long as possible.

But it's not just about appearances. Incorrect cleaning methods can damage the foil backing or weaken the adhesive, which could cause your crystals to come loose, fall off or scratch. Maintaining hotfix rhinestone embellished items is just as important as glued items, even though the hotfix method is arguably more secure.

The Do's of Cleaning Swarovski Crystals

To safely remove smudges and dirt, follow these simple steps:

• Use a soft, lint-free cloth, such as a clean microfibre cloth or jewellery polishing cloth.
• Wipe gently in a circular motion to lift away dust or fingerprints.
• For tougher marks, lightly dampen the cloth with plain water – never use cleaning sprays or chemicals.
• Spot clean only. Avoid soaking or submerging the whole item, especially if the crystals are glued on.
• Use a clean, soft brush (like a makeup brush) to gently clean around and between the crystals.
• Always test on a small area first if you're unsure how the fabric or crystal will react.

Top Tip: If you're wondering how to make Swarovski crystals shine again, sometimes all it takes is a careful polish with a clean, dry cloth.

The Don'ts of Cleaning Swarovski Crystals

When cleaning Swarovski crystals, it's just as important to know what not to do:

❌ Don't use alcohol wipes, household sprays or chemical cleaners – they can damage the foil backing.

❌ Don't scrub or use abrasive cloths – they can scratch the surface of the crystal.

❌ Never soak or machine wash an embellished item with fabric conditioner

❌ Avoid high heat, steam, or direct sunlight when drying.

❌ Don't pull at any loose crystals – this can cause more damage.

Remember, if you're learning how to clean Swarovski crystals, gentle is always best.

Looking After Embellished Garments

If your crystals are part of a garment, you'll want to take extra care when cleaning, see our top tips for washing items that have rhinestones, or follow these simple rules:

• Hand wash only when absolutely necessary, and never scrub directly over the embellishments.
• Turn the item inside out, and protect the crystals with a layer of soft fabric or towels.
• After washing, lay flat to dry, away from sunlight or heat.
• For quick fixes, spot clean around the crystals and avoid the urge to soak the whole piece.

Wondering how to keep Swarovski crystals shiny on dancewear or costumes? Light, regular cleaning is far better than one deep clean after several uses.

Storage and Ongoing Maintenance

Keeping your crystals clean also means protecting them when not in use:

• Store in a dry, cool place, preferably in a fabric bag or wrapped in soft tissue.
• Avoid folding garments across the embellishment – instead, roll them gently or use padded hangers.
• Keep items away from perfumes, hairsprays, or any chemical products that could dull the crystals.

Good storage habits help reduce build-up, making it easier to know how to make Swarovski crystals shine again with minimal effort.

When to Ask the Experts

If your piece is particularly delicate, vintage, or heavily embellished, it may be worth speaking to a professional cleaner who has experience with crystal detailing. Always let them know that your item includes Swarovski crystals, and never assume a standard dry cleaner will know how to handle it correctly.

In Summary

Taking care of your Swarovski crystals doesn't have to be difficult. With the right tools, a gentle touch, and a bit of patience, you'll keep your sparkle looking as brilliant as the day it was applied. Whether you're prepping for a performance, storing your costume, or giving a cherished item some TLC, knowing how to clean Swarovski crystals the right way is key.

If you're unsure which crystals you've used or want advice on crystal-safe cleaning methods, feel free to get in touch – we're always happy to help.