How to Clean Mother of Pearl Buttons

Mother of pearl is a natural substance made by oysters and abalones. The mollusks excrete calcium carbonate in small amounts, forming thin layers of mother of pearl. Colored in whites, pinks and grays, mother of pearl is often used to make jewelry and buttons. Because it is comprised of many thin layers, mother of pearl is delicate and must be treated gently. Exposure to chemical solvents can damage mother of pearl, so it is best to avoid them when cleaning mother of pearl buttons.

Things You'll Need

• Soft-bristled toothbrush
• Mild dish soap
• Warm water
• Small container
• Soft, dry rag

Instructions

1. Gently wipe the mother of pearl buttons with a soft, dry cloth. If this cleans the buttons, stop here.

2. Mix a small amount of dish soap with warm water.

3. Dip a soft-bristled toothbrush into the soapy water and use it to gently wash the button. Do not push too hard or linger on each button longer than necessary. To do so may cause the button to lose its shine.

4. Dry the buttons with a clean, soft rag.

Tips & Warnings

• Garments with mother of pearl buttons should never be machine washed or dried.

• Never attempt to clean buttons that have been hand painted or dyed.

References

• The Store on the Corner: Button Identification and Cleaning
• Gemstone Education: Mother of Pearl--The Colors, Sizes and Shapes