Can You Sleep with Rings on?

The engagement ring is one of the most important pieces of jewelry you will ever own. At least for me.

So, it’s natural to want to keep it safe and sound – especially when you sleep.

But can you sleep with your engagement ring on? Is it actually bad for you?

Let’s explore everything you need to know about sleeping with rings on, so you can make the best decision for your bling.

Can you sleep with rings on?

Yes, you can sleep with rings on as long as the material of the jewelry does not cause any skin irritation and the ring is kept clean. However, it is not recommended to wear jewelry to bed as this can potentially cause damage to the jewelry due to the constant motion of tossing and turning in the night.

For instance, diamond rings could potentially bend or the diamonds could get knocked out, and metal bands can cause health issues like ring avulsion. That being said, silicone rings are a safe option for sleeping with as they are designed for active lifestyles, durable and able to withstand temperatures.

Is it safe to sleep with a ring on?

Sleeping with a ring on can be dangerous and put your, your partner, and the ring itself in harm’s way. There have been instances of injury where sleeping with a wedding ring on has caused scrapes and even more severe injuries, such as when a ring is flung into a partner’s face. The hard gemstones of a ring can be dangerous and cause a lot of pain if they are scraped across someone’s skin. The size and shape of a ring is also an issue, especially for women. If a ring is too big and embellished with bigger stones, it is likely to get caught in your hair or on bedding, which can be painful and cause damage. A simpler, smaller ring is less likely to cause such problems, but it is still not recommended to sleep with a ring on.

To keep the ring safe, it is suggested to store it in a portable locker case when not in use.

What are the risks of sleeping with rings on?

1. Infection and Swelling

Some people may experience mild to moderate allergic reactions when wearing certain lower grade metals for prolonged periods of time due to the debris or bacteria that can accumulate on the ring. Moreover, sweat can cause a buildup of bacteria, especially if you don’t wash your bedding frequently, and this can lead to a bacterial reaction that mimics an allergic one.

To avoid irritation, it is best to stick to top-quality gold or silver and to clean your jewelry periodically. Additionally, it is advised to avoid costume and fashion jewelry as they tend to tarnish and discolor the skin, especially in contact with water and sweat.

2. Skin Damage

Falling asleep with rings on poses a risk of skin damage due to prolonged exposure of the skin to certain lower-grade metals, such as nickel. This prolonged exposure can cause mild to moderate allergic reactions, such as itching, dryness and irritation, as well as rashes, blisters and the skin turning black. Additionally, sweat and certain medications can have damaging reactions with some jewelry materials.

To avoid these risks, it is important to clean jewelry regularly and buy jewelry made of quality stainless steel, gold or silver.

3. Ring Avulsion

An avulsion ring is a type of ring that can cause severe injury if caught on something. It occurs when a ring gets caught on something, such as clothing or furniture, and pulls the finger and the skin of the finger away from the bone, potentially resulting in nerve damage, tissue damage, disfigurement, and even amputation of the finger. It is particularly dangerous to sleep with rings on, as the lack of consciousness while sleeping can lead to an injury occurring without the wearer’s knowledge. It is particularly risky to wear metal or diamond rings when sleeping, as these materials can bend and cause stones to become dislodged, leading to more risks of injury.

To avoid this risk, it is best to take off metal or diamond rings before going to sleep and opt for a more breathable and comfortable silicone ring. Silicone rings are more durable and won’t cause degloving, tissue damage, or ring avulsion when worn to sleep.

4. Damage to Jewelry Pieces

Classification with explanation:

Bent Metals: When sleeping with rings is permitted, the metals that many rings are made of–such as gold, sterling silver, and platinum–can be bent from the impact of the constant movement and shifting in the night. This can cause the shape of the ring to change, increasing the risk of losing stones, since the stones were meant to sit in a perfectly round ring.
Tarnishing: Sleeping in jewelry can also cause metals to tarnish more quickly when exposed to sweat. For example, sterling silver and the rhodium plating on white gold can wear off faster.
Broken Chains: Finally, sleeping in necklaces or other jewelry like bracelets, can cause them to be flattened or pulled without the wearer realizing it. Chains are especially prone to being broken in the middle of the night.

5. Disruptions to Sleep

When it comes to avoiding sleep disruptions while wearing rings, it’s important to consider both metal and silicone rings. Metal rings can be more easily damaged while sleeping, as they are prone to bending and the prongs holding the gemstones can be broken. Silicone rings are more durable and won’t bend if you toss and turn in your sleep, making them a safer choice for those who want to get a good night’s sleep.

gold and white floral ribbon, can you sleep with rings on

6. Loss of Jewelry Pieces

Rings can slip off your finger and become lost, bent or damaged due to the impact of movement while sleeping. Sterling silver jewelry can tarnish faster when exposed to sweat and the rhodium plating that keeps white gold white can wear off with continual contact. Chains can break during the night and prongs on settings can become loose or bent.

FAQs

What type of ring is best for sleeping in?

When it comes to sleeping with your ring on, solid golden rings without diamonds or silicone rings or are the best option. Not only are they comfortable, but they are also much more durable than diamond rings, which can become damaged during sleep.

Plus, silicone rings are also safe for everyday use, including showering, swimming, and working out. On the other hand, metal or diamond rings should not be worn while sleeping, as they pose a risk of being caught on bedding or getting bent or damaged during sleep.

How can I protect my ring from damage while sleeping?

If you want to protect your engagement ring from damage while you’re sleeping, here’s what you can do:

Take off your ring before you go to sleep and store it in a safe place. This can be a jewelry box, a pouch, or a ring dish.
If you’re staying in a hotel for a night or two, it may be better to keep your ring on while you sleep so you don’t forget where you put it.
Consider keeping your ring in a portable ring case if you’re worried about it getting damaged.
Make sure to store your ring somewhere safe and out of reach from kids and pets.
Purchase jewelry insurance to give you peace of mind in case your ring does get damaged.

What should I do if I wake up with a swollen finger?

If you wake up with a swollen finger due to wearing your ring overnight, then the first thing you should do is take off your ring. If the ring is stuck and can’t be removed easily, try soaking your hand in warm water to reduce the swelling. If this doesn’t work, try using a lubricant to help the ring slide off, or contact a professional jewelry store for assistance. You can also try using a ring stretching tool to gently loosen the ring. If the ring is painful or the swelling doesn’t go down, seek medical attention immediately. Once the ring is off, take a break from wearing it for a few days and let your finger recover.

To avoid similar issues in the future, try not to wear your ring to sleep, and clean it periodically to prevent build-up of sweat and bacteria. Additionally, consider getting a personalized ring dish to put your ring in before bed, so you always know where it is.

What is ring avulsion and how can I prevent it?

Ring avulsion is a serious injury in which a finger or hand is caught on an object, such as a piece of jewelry, and the skin and the underlying tissue are ripped away from the bone. It typically occurs when wearing traditional wedding rings and is estimated to affect 150,000 people annually.

To prevent this from happening, it is best to remove your ring when playing sports or engaging in any activity that involves contact or involves using your hands.

Are there any precautions I should take when removing my ring before bed?

Yes, there are some precautions you should take when removing your ring before bed. Here are some step-by-step instructions to help you:

Before you go to bed, take off your ring and store it in a safe place. A ring dish, jewelry box, or pouch are all good options.
Make sure you know exactly where you stored your ring so you don’t accidentally lose it.
Avoiding hitting or scratching your ring on any surfaces, such as your bed or nightstand.
Before putting your ring back on in the morning, check for any swelling in your fingers due to overnight fluid retention. This can make it difficult to remove your ring, so you may want to wait a few minutes before putting it on.

For example, if you’re staying in a hotel for the night, you may want to keep your ring on while you get some Zzz’s, so you don’t forget where you put it and risk losing it. When you do take it off, store it in a safe place, such as a ring dish or jewelry box, and be aware of any surfaces that may damage or scratch your ring.

What kind of jewellery pieces should I avoid wearing to bed?

When it comes to wearing jewelry to bed, certain pieces should be avoided. These include pieces made of nickel, as nickel often causes skin reactions. Pieces made of silver or gold that are not tarnish-free should also be avoided, as the tarnish can transfer to the skin. Additionally, pieces made from lower grade metals should be avoided, as they may cause allergic reactions. If you have new earrings you should wait 6 months before sleeping without them.

Lastly, perspiration can cause a reaction between the skin and jewelry, so if you perspire a lot, you may want to avoid wearing jewelry to bed.

The best way to avoid skin irritation and allergic reactions is to invest in top-quality gold or silver jewelry from luxury retailers.

Are there any materials used in rings that may cause skin irritation?

Yes, there are materials used in rings that may cause skin irritation. The most common culprits are metals like
copper,
nickel,
and lead,

which can cause mild to moderate allergic reactions in certain individuals. Costume and fashion jewelry are particularly prone to causing skin irritation because they are often plated and can tarnish when exposed to water, sweat, and soap.

Gold and silver are generally non-allergenic and non-reactive, so these metals are safe for long-term wear and even sleep, as long as the ring is kept clean. However, lower grade metals can still lead to skin irritation, so it’s important to thoroughly clean and inspect jewelry regularly to prevent the buildup of oils, dirt, and bacteria.

Can you sleep with an engagement ring on?

Yes, you can sleep with an engagement ring on, provided you are wearing a ring made of a precious metal and it is free of sharp edges. However, even with these cautions, it is still not recommended to sleep with your engagement ring due to the potential of it getting caught in your hair or bedding, which can cause the stone to loosen in the setting.

It is advisable to have one designated safe spot in your house where your ring is stored whenever it is not on your finger.

Should I take my ring off when I shower?

When it comes to taking off your ring, the general consensus is that it is best to take it off when showering, washing your hands, or participating in any physical activities. The main reason being that water, sweat, or direct physical contact with the ring can cause it to become loose or damaged.

For example, swimming can reduce the size of your finger, potentially leading to your ring slipping off and getting lost in the water. Similarly, contact sports, vigorous exercise, and any heavy-handed activity can cause gemstones to pop out, leaving your ring damaged beyond repair. Even if the ring is securely fastened to your finger, sleeping with it on can cause it to loosen.

At the same time, there is no need to take off your ring for every minor activity – like washing your hands or simply running errands. However, if you are planning to do anything that involves water, sweat, or vigorous physical activity, it is best to be safe and remove your ring.

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lezt

Lez Taylor, Founder and CEO of Corala Blanket.
She tried every sleep system and trick to conquer her insomnia for good.

Can You Sleep with Rings on? – The [Best] Way to Sleep With Engagement Ring