As a symbol of love and commitment, the wedding ring is a cherished possession that most people keep on their finger at all times. However, there are times when it may be best to remove it to prevent damage or loss. In this article, we will discuss the situations where it is advisable to take off your wedding ring and how to store it safely.
Why Take Off Your Wedding Ring?
While wedding rings are designed to be worn daily, there are times when it is advisable to take them off to avoid damage. Wearing your ring while engaging in certain activities can cause scratches, dents, stains or gemstone loss. Additionally, if your ring is loose, there is a risk of it slipping off and getting lost altogether. Here are some situations where you should consider taking off your wedding ring:
Swimming
It is best to take off your wedding ring before going for a swim in a pool, lake, or ocean, as chlorine and saltwater can be harmful to some metals and also gemstones. Cold water can cause fingers to shrink, making it easy for the ring to slide off.
Showering or Bathing
Taking off your wedding ring before taking a shower or bath is advisable because soap and shampoo can create a film on the ring, making it look dull and dirty. The chemicals can also sometimes react with any gemstones you may have set into the ring, or with the metal of the ring itself.
Sports
Engaging in physical activity or sports can cause your fingers to sweat, and the ring may slip off. You may also dent or scratch the metal of the ring while playing sports, or damage any gemstones, especially if they sit high on the band. Additionally, there is also a risk of injury if you wear your ring while playing contact sports. Therefore, it is best to remove your wedding ring before participating in such activities.
During Your Skincare Routine
You should also take off your wedding ring before applying any skincare or grooming products. Creams, lotions, and other skincare products can get trapped in small crevices in the ring, making it difficult to clean. Additionally, grooming products like hair gel and hairspray can also stick to the ring, making it look dirty. Again, chemicals in these products can also sometimes react with any gemstones you may have set into the ring, or with the metal of the ring itself.
Before Bed
You might also want to consider taking off your wedding ring before going to bed. Wearing your ring to bed can be risky, as it may get snagged in the bedding, causing damage to the ring or your finger. Sometimes your fingers can swell when sleeping and if your ring is an exact fit, it may get uncomfortable through the night and also cause risk of lack of circulation.
Cleaning the House
Cleaning agents like bleach and other chemicals can damage the ring's metal or react with gemstones in the ring. Therefore, it is a good idea to remove your wedding ring before cleaning the house.
How to Store Your Wedding Ring Safely
When you do take off your wedding ring, it is essential to store it safely to prevent damage or loss. Here are some tips to help you store your ring correctly:
Use a Jewellery Box
The easiest way to store your wedding ring is to place it in a jewellery box. Make sure the box has a soft lining to prevent scratches or damage to the ring's surface. Additionally, store the ring separately from other jewellery to avoid any rubbing that may cause scratches. The easiest way to do this would be to wrap it in tissue and keep it in a small plastic bag. If you don't have a jewellery box, you can keep your ring in a safe place, like a drawer or a safe when you are not wearing it.
Use a Ring Holder
A ring holder is another excellent option to store your wedding ring. It can be placed on a dresser or a bedside table, making it easy to access when you need it. However, make sure the ring is not exposed to direct sunlight, as this can cause damage.
Get a Ring Dish
A ring dish is a small decorative dish that you can use to store your wedding ring. It is an excellent option if you take your ring off frequently throughout the day, like when doing house chores or washing your hands.
Carry It with You
If you prefer to keep your ring with you at all times, consider storing it in a small jewellery pouch. These are usually made of soft material like velvet or silk and can be easily carried in your purse or pocket.
Knowing when to take off your wedding ring helps you to protect your cherished possession. By taking your ring off before engaging in certain activities, you can prevent damage or loss. Additionally, storing your ring safely will ensure it stays in the best condition for years to come. For more tips on jewellery care, please read our guide.
