Cleaning Your Rosary

PARACORD ROSARIES

Rugged Rosaries do not need a lot of special care. We designed them to be sturdy and tough, water-resistant, mildew resistant, and generally carefree. However, over time, the paracord can get dingy. The oil and dirt on your skin will contribute to this so keeping hands clean does help. To keep your rosary in tip-top shape, you can occasionally wipe it with a soft damp cloth.

Please do not submerge your rosary in water. It is waterproof, however, if it does get soaked, it is best to let it dry in a cool dry place. Do not put it in your washing machine, clothes dryer, or dishwasher! Do not let it dry in full sun or in a heated environment as the paracord will shrink slightly due to the heat. We had a customer who dunked his rosary in the Holy Water at church and then left it to dry on the dashboard of the car. It shrunk so that the beads were too tight.

WWI BATTLE BEADS COMBAT ROSARIES

WWI Battle Beads combat rosaries come in different varieties. Most of them have a plating over brass. As you use the rosary regularly, the plating will eventually begin to show wear. This is normal and the rosary will start to take on a lovely vintage look just like the authentic 1916 WWI rosaries which inspired these designs. These rosaries are also waterproof, and rustproof. If you do not want the brass, you can contact support@ruggedrosaries.com and inquire about the stainless steel chains we have available for these rosaries. The stainless steel is not plated but is a natural silver color and stays that silver color over time. Stainless steel is also a great choice for anybody that has metal allergies. Please note that the stainless steel chains have a little less weight to them and so the rosary will feel lighter.

CRUCIFIXES AND MEDALS

Crucifixes and Medals are mostly made of an alloy called zamac which is used in the old world factories in Italy to produce the nice looking devotionals we use on our rosaries. These are washed in a mixed silver coating that contains sterling silver to give the medals and crucifixes their shine. The amount of silver used varies. Some batches of medals will have a higher silver content than others, so we have found that some medals will tarnish more than others.

The crucifixes and medals should be treated gently.

Never use cleaning solutions that contain acids: This is of the utmost importance because zamak can be corroded by contact with these types of solutions.
Use sponges or bristle brushes: When cleaning zamak, it is advisable to use a sponge or a bristle brush that is soft, never do it with plastic or cellulose sponges or with paper towels because they are abrasive and usually affect the color and brightness.
Use a mild detergent soap or a solution of white vinegar and water: This is the ideal cleanser to clean zamak; and if the pieces have stained or have dirt adhered on their surface, use a soft-bristle brush with baking soda, or failing that, use glass cleaner and apply it with a non-plastic sponge. 
Crucifixes and medals can also be handled to the point of some of the silver wash being worn away. The raw alloy is underneath. This is normal wear.

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING and REFRESHING

If your rosary has become especially soiled or dingy, we can do a refresh/restringing/repair service for your rosary. Please see this article for that information:  REFRESH / RESTRINGING / REPAIR.

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