How do you properly clean body jewelery?

Question

I just got a labret done, and someone I know said they have some labrets they could give me, because their labret sits too high for them to use the jewelery. I was just curious on how exactly I could clean it so when I eventually get to wear it, irritation/infection is not going to be an issue. I have some ideas, but I just wanted to hear what others thought...

Answer 1

If you can, ask a local piercer to autoclave the jewelry. Its the best and most sure fire way to kill all germs and bacteria.

If you are not able to find a piercer willing to help you, try boiling water. Boiling water is the next best thing you can use. Be sure to unscrew the ball and leave the pieces in the water for 10ish minutes. Once they are out, dry them with disposable paper towel and place them in a clean plastic bag if you don't plan to use it right away. (I used to do that when I was much younger and not a professional piercer. I have since bought my own autoclave, a $700+ purchase)

http://wiki.bmezine.com/index.php/Rubbing_Alcohol
Probably the worst choice of what to use is just peroxide or alcohol. Both will kill surface germs and bacteria but do not remove ALL germs which would put you at a risk for infections. It is fine to wipe jewelry down with those before you use it, but only if you've sterilized the jewelry first with an autoclave or boiling water.

If the jewelry discolors, melts, changes size or shape in anyway, throw it away since it was of poor quality to begin with. Good luck.

Answer 2

If you can stop at a tattoo shop have them pop it in their autoclave as long as it is titanium or metal. Otherwise - alchohol will work.

Answer 3

Soak it in alcohol

Answer 4

Use alcohol, but make sure it is a high percentage.... or use clorox

Answer 5

soap and water and sometimes ahocol to dry it out

Answer 6

with alcohol or tea trea oil, and clean cotton puffs (or tissue)