Your engagement ring is one of your most cherished possessions, a symbol of love and commitment. But did you know that wearing it to bed could be causing damage – not just to the ring, but to your skin and even your loved ones?
Jewellery expert Neil Dutta, Managing Director of Angelic Diamonds, has revealed seven shocking reasons why you should always remove your engagement ring before sleeping. Here’s why:
It Can Cause Structural Damage to the Prongs
Wearing your ring while you sleep may seem harmless, but it puts unnecessary stress on the prongs and setting. This weakens the structure holding your centre stone, increasing the risk of it becoming loose – or even falling out! In fact, Neil Dutta states that as many as a third of engagement ring repairs are due to prong damage, with sleeping in your ring being a major culprit. By simply removing your ring at night, you can help preserve its integrity and avoid costly repairs.
It Can Cause Skin Irritations and Contact Dermatitis
Wearing your ring 24/7 creates the perfect environment for bacteria, dead skin cells, and moisture to accumulate underneath it. Over time, this can lead to skin irritation, rashes, and even fungal infections. If you’ve ever noticed red, itchy skin around your ring, it could be a sign of contact dermatitis caused by prolonged wear. Giving your finger a break at night allows your skin to breathe and helps reduce the risk of these uncomfortable issues.
You’re Probably Not Cleaning Your Ring Enough
Did you know that two-thirds of people never clean their jewellery? Removing your ring at night gives you the perfect opportunity to clean it regularly, keeping it sparkling and bacteria-free. A quick cleaning routine – soaking your ring in warm, soapy water once a week and gently brushing it with a soft toothbrush – can help maintain its brilliance and prevent long-term build-up.
Your Ring Could Become Misshapen Over Time
Constant wear, especially while you sleep, can gradually change the shape of your ring. Thinner bands or softer metals are particularly prone to becoming more oval-shaped instead of round. Not only does this alter its appearance, but it can also make stones more likely to come loose. By removing your ring each night, you’ll help preserve its original shape and structure.
You’re More Likely to Lose a Stone
If you toss and turn in your sleep, your ring can easily get caught on your bedding or clothing, leading to chips, loose stones, or even total loss. Repairing or replacing a stone can be expensive, with pavé settings costing anywhere from $100 to $500 per stone. Taking your ring off before bed is a simple way to prevent this entirely.
You Could Accidentally Scratch Your Partner (or Kids!)
Engagement rings – especially those with raised settings or pavé stones – can be surprisingly sharp. If you share a bed with a partner or children, there’s a chance you could accidentally scratch them in your sleep. Removing your ring before bed can help prevent accidental injuries while you rest.
It Can Reduce the Long-Term Value of Your Ring
Your engagement ring isn’t just sentimental – it’s valuable, too! Over time, constant wear can cause metal fatigue, surface scratches, and stone loosening, which can significantly impact its resale or insurance value. Many insurance policies now require documented maintenance and proof of careful handling. Taking just a few seconds to remove your ring each night can help maintain its beauty and financial worth for years to come.
While it might feel odd at first, making a habit of removing your engagement ring before bed can protect it from unnecessary damage, prolong its lifespan, and keep your skin healthy. Consider storing it in a safe, soft-lined jewellery box overnight to ensure it stays in perfect condition.
Do you sleep with your engagement ring on?