9 Times When You Should Take Off Your Engagement Ring

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For many people, accepting a marriage proposal effectively means accepting the commitment to wearing a ring for the rest of your life. Indeed, it’s customary to rock your rock twenty-four/seven when you work, sleep and play. But is wearing your engagement ring at all times practical? Actually, there are many times you should leave your ring at home, whether for safety or comfort or to prevent it from getting damaged. Here are a few of the times you should go bare-fingered.

Tip: Want to sport your ring at all times, even when you’re getting your hands dirty? Consider wearing one of our silicone wedding rings that won’t scratch, warp or break. These babies are affordable enough that it’s no biggie if it falls down the train or slips off while you’re mowing the lawn.

1. When You Work Out – Chances are, your ring is made out of some form of metal, and metal is corrosive when exposed to human sweat. Although serious damage isn’t likely, excessive exposure to sweat over time could cause your ring to break down, so it’s better to leave it in the safe or your locker.

It’s not just about sweat, though. Workout or gym engagement ring safety is also about protecting the structure of the ring. If you’re lifting weights, the pressure of a metal bar against your band can easily bend it out of shape or scratch the metal. This is the perfect time to swap to a silicone band.It handles the pressure so your precious metal doesn't have to.

2. When Working with Heavy Machinery – Did you know there are serious regulations against wearing metal rings in certain workplaces? That’s because they can get caught on heavy machinery or interact with electrical currents. Make sure to always either wear no jewelry at all or wear a silicone ring when working with heavy machinery or electricity.

3. When You Go Swimming or Shower – This brings us to a major dilemma: Can you shower with an engagement ring? Technically, yes, but you shouldn't. Oily soaps and conditioners create a slippery film on your skin, making it incredibly easy for a ring to slide right off. Additionally, those products build up behind the stone, making it look cloudy and dull. As for swimming with an engagement ring, cold water causes your fingers to shrink slightly (vasoconstriction), meaning a ring that fits perfectly on land might slip off unnoticed in the ocean or pool.

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4. When Cooking – The combination of water, food, high heat and complex tools makes the kitchen a no-go for your engagement ring. A great way to remember to take off your ring before cooking is to keep a ring dish somewhere secure and out of the way — like on a windowsill or in a corner.

5. When Cleaning – You probably already know that the cleaning closet is chock-full of harsh and potentially damaging chemicals, so keep this in mind when you’re getting ready for a big day of chores. It’s especially important to keep your nice jewelry away from bleach and ammonia, as they can cause stress corrosion, leading to discoloration and eventually even cracking.

6. When Working with Chemicals and Paint – It’s the same deal here. Whenever you’re working with any sort of chemicals or paint, make sure to take off your ring to avoid any potential disasters. Removing certain kinds of paint from jewelry is nearly impossible, so make sure to leave it off during those projects.

7. When Getting Ready – Have you ever noticed that your jewelry acquires a layer of film after being exposed to things like perfume or hair spray? Not only will these things dull the sheen of your prettiest pieces, but they could also lead to long-term damage and corrosion. Try to get in the habit of putting all your jewelry on as one of the last things you do while getting ready.

If you're wondering how to protect your engagement ring during your daily routine, the "last on, first off" rule is the gold standard. By making your ring the final touch to your outfit and the first thing you remove when you get home, you minimize its exposure to cosmetics, lotions, and potential snags.

8. When Sleeping: Let's address a common question: Should I sleep with my engagement ring on? While it might seem romantic to wake up with that sparkle, it's generally safer to take it off. As you toss and turn, prongs can snag on bedding, potentially loosening the stone. Plus, lying on your hands can put unnecessary pressure on the band, warping the metal over time. Not to mention, you avoid the risk of accidentally scratching yourself (or your partner!) in your sleep.

9. When Traveling – Wearing your most cherished jewelry can be risky. You’re in a new environment, living out of a suitcase and potentially doing a lot of swimming and exploring. Additionally, you run into the risk of your precious jewelry getting lost or even stolen! All of these things make it a less-than-ideal scenario for showing off your rock. If you do want to wear your jewelry while traveling, make sure to wear it while flying to avoid a fiasco if your luggage gets lost. Use a locking suitcase and take advantage of the safe in your hotel room when you go swimming.

Here are some essential travel tips for engagement rings: consider leaving the real deal at home and traveling with a "stand-in" ring. This way, you can flash some style without the stress. If you do bring your main ring, how to store your engagement ring safely becomes a priority. Never leave it on a hotel nightstand. Always use a fabric pouch to prevent scratches and store it in the room safe when not worn.

Ring Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

Knowing when to take off your engagement ring is half the battle; keeping it sparkling is the other. You don't need fancy equipment. A simple soak in warm water with mild dish soap and a gentle scrub with a soft toothbrush will work wonders for most stones. Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners unless you are certain your specific stone type can handle them.

Ultimately, knowing when not to wear an engagement ring ensures your symbol of love lasts a lifetime. If you love your ring, it’s best to wear it only some of the time, and that doesn’t apply only to expensive pieces. Even if you’ve opted for one of our super-affordable engagement rings, it’s probably pretty sentimental to you. Make sure you keep it in great shape for years to come by taking it off in these situations.