How to clean your piercing properly: do’s & don’ts

A new piercing is exciting, but it’s also a healing wound. How you clean it in the early weeks and months has a direct impact on comfort, healing time, and long-term results.

At Eir Piercing, we see far more issues caused by overcleaning or the wrong products than by under-cleaning. Good piercing care isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing the right things consistently and gently.

This guide explains how to clean your piercing properly, what to avoid, and how to support healing without creating unnecessary irritation.

Quick answer:
Clean your piercing once or twice a day using sterile saline or hypochlorous acid, keep your hands off the jewellery, and avoid harsh products or unnecessary movement.

Why cleaning matters (and why less is more)

A piercing heals from the inside out. Your body already knows how to repair tissue, cleaning is simply about supporting that process by keeping the area free from debris and excess bacteria.

Too many products, harsh chemicals, or frequent interference can slow healing rather than help it. The goal is to create a clean, calm environment and then let your body do its work.

What to use: sterile saline or hypochlorous acid

The safest and most effective way to clean a healing piercing is with pre-mixed, sterile saline spray. Look for wound wash saline with no additives, just sterile saline and water.

Hypochlorous acid sprays are also a gentle and effective option. They support the body’s natural healing response and are well tolerated by sensitive skin.

You can spray directly onto the piercing or apply the solution to a clean, non-woven gauze and gently compress the area for a few seconds. Always allow the area to dry afterwards, trapped moisture can cause irritation.

Why DIY salt solutions aren’t recommended

Mixing your own salt water at home may seem harmless, but it’s very easy to get the concentration wrong. Too strong, and it dries out tissue. Too weak, and it does very little.

Homemade solutions also carry a higher risk of contamination. Pre-mixed sterile products are consistent, hygienic, and far kinder to healing piercings.

What not to use on a piercing

Alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine, Dettol, and similar antiseptics are not suitable for piercings. These products are designed to kill bacteria aggressively and can damage healthy tissue in the process.

Piercings don’t heal by forming scabs that “fall off” like minor cuts. Harsh products can delay healing, increase irritation, and cause unnecessary setbacks.

Hands off, even when it looks fine

Always wash your hands before touching your piercing. Even casual contact can introduce bacteria.

Twisting, turning, or sliding jewellery to “help clean it” is one of the most common causes of irritation we see. Movement disrupts the healing channel and can drag bacteria inside. Leave the jewellery still and undisturbed.

How often should you clean your piercing?

Once or twice a day is enough for most piercings. Cleaning more often doesn’t make healing faster, it often does the opposite.

Outside of your regular routine, clean only if the piercing has been exposed to sweat, dirt, or accidental contact. Otherwise, consistency matters more than frequency.

Supporting healing beyond cleaning

Cleaning is only one part of healing. Sleep, hydration, nutrition, and avoiding unnecessary pressure all influence how your piercing settles.

Sleeping on fresh piercings, especially cartilage or surface placements, can cause swelling and soreness. Using clean pillowcases or a donut pillow can make a noticeable difference.

If you’re travelling, exercising more than usual, or experiencing changes in routine, your piercing may need a little extra patience.

When to check in with a professional

Some redness, mild swelling, warmth, and clear or whitish discharge are normal during healing. Pain that increases over time, thick yellow or green discharge, or jewellery that feels increasingly tight are signs that something may need attention.

If you’re unsure, it’s always better to ask early. A professional piercer can assess whether what you’re experiencing is normal healing or something that needs adjustment.

Final thoughts

Cleaning a piercing properly doesn’t require complicated routines or harsh products. Gentle care, clean hands, and patience go a long way.

We are always happy to support our clients with aftercare guidance, check-ups, and reassurance throughout the healing process. Healing should feel supported, not stressful.

FAQ

How often should I clean my piercing?
Most piercings should be cleaned once or twice a day with sterile saline or hypochlorous acid.

Can I make my own salt solution at home?
It’s not recommended. Homemade solutions are difficult to mix correctly and can irritate healing tissue.

Should I twist my jewellery while cleaning?
No. Movement can irritate the piercing and slow healing.

Is redness normal after cleaning?
Mild redness can be normal, especially early on. Worsening pain or swelling should be checked.

What if my piercing still feels irritated?
Reduce interference, stick to gentle cleaning, and consult a professional piercer if symptoms persist.

This information is based on professional piercing experience and is not intended as medical advice. If you have specific health concerns, consult a qualified healthcare professional.