Wooden jewelry & water: Can I keep my necklace on while showering? The honest answer.
“Can I leave my wooden jewelry on while showering?” – That is probably one of the most common questions I get asked.
The short answer is: It depends.
When you browse online shops or read care instructions, you will almost always find the sentence: “Please protect from water and store in a dry place.” Admittedly, this is also in my care instructions. Why? Honestly: It’s the “safe bet.” We manufacturers use this to protect ourselves so that you can enjoy your piece for a long time.
But I am not just a manufacturer; I am also a wearer of my own jewelry. And that is why you are getting the practical answer here, which I also give my customers in person at markets.
Not all wooden jewelry is the same – there are important differences.
I try to design my everyday jewelry pieces to be robust enough to accompany you through life. Here is the detailed check for your collection:
1. Natural Woods (e.g., olive wood, walnut)
In principle, I harden my woods so that they are resistant. Therefore, cracks usually do not occur due to moisture.
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What happens with water: If these woods get wet often (showering, swimming), the wood “works” a little more. The natural darkening process happens faster as a result. Your jewelry will therefore acquire its characteristic patina more quickly.
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My tip: You can leave these pieces on, but you should treat them with a little care oil now and then if they get wet often. Should anything change, you can contact me at any time!
2. Jewelry made of stabilized wood (colorful: blue, green, red...)
Here I have good news for all “shower fans.” This wood is stabilized (impregnated and hardened) with acrylate.
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What happens with water: Nothing. The wood is virtually sealed from the inside out.
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My experience: I wear my own necklace and bracelet made of this material constantly – even in the bathtub. There is no staining, no fading, and no swelling. These pieces are absolutely suitable for everyday use.
3. Jewelry with inlays (stones, shell fragments, opals)
Here my recommendation is: Better to take them off for showering.
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The reason: Wood is a living material that reacts to temperature and moisture (it expands or contracts slightly). The stone or shell, however, is rigid.
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The risk: This differential movement creates tension. Even though I use the best adhesives, it can happen that the stone eventually comes loose due to the wood’s constant movement. To avoid this frustration, simply take these special pieces off before hopping into the water.
Conclusion
You don't have to treat your wooden jewelry like a fragile egg, but being mindful helps preserve its shine. Especially with stabilized woods, you hardly need to worry about it in everyday life.
Do you have any specific questions about care or are you unsure about your unique piece?
Feel free to write your question directly in the comments – I will answer you, and that will surely help other readers as well!