How to clean your enamel pins!

When I first started making pins, I had no idea that enamel pins would quickly become a wardrobe staple for me. After stickers, I classify them as a highly portable art form! I seem to be tagging just about every item I can safely stick a pin through! Of course, at a certain point, my favorite pieces start to look a little "less-than-new". So, having researched the web and done a little testing myself, I offer you my favorite ways to keep your enamel pins looking shiny and new. In order of dirt levels:

Use the Sticky Tape Trick for light dirt and debris removal

For light maintenance, I like to use sticky tape and dab the parts that get dirty easily. I can do this easily anywhere, and it satisfies any urge to fidget!

Use an enamel pin-friendly, gentle Cleaning Solution for a good clean

For a true clean, make a gentle cleanser from home by combining a small quantity of mild dish soap or baby shampoo with warm water. Use a soft cloth (microfiber is great!), cotton Q-tip, or small brush with soft bristles and delicately scrub the enamel surface and metal parts of the pin to eliminate any dirt or grime. Rinse and pat dry right away.

(Steer clear of harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they could potentially harm the enamel or metal coating! You also want to avoid submerging your pin or letting it get completely wet. Too much moisture can cause them to rust or affect the adhesive used to attach the pin to its backing, potentially causing it to loosen or detach.)

Try the Toothpaste Method for tougher stains

To tackle tougher stains or tarnish on the metal parts, a small quantity of non-abrasive toothpaste can come to the rescue! Simply dab a little toothpaste on the metal areas of the pin and gently scrub using a soft toothbrush or cloth. Afterward, rinse the pin thoroughly with water to ensure there is no toothpaste residue left behind and pat dry.

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There you have it! If you're looking for a way to keep your enamel pins looking bright and new, I hope one or all of these methods come in handy! <3