The Best Way to Untangle a Necklace Chain (Without Breaking It)

We’ve all been there. You’re getting ready, running fashionably late (as always), and you reach for your favorite everyday jewelry—only to find it in a knot so complex it could rival a Rubik’s Cube. Cue the frustration.

But don’t worry—we’ve got your back (and your chain). Whether it’s your go-to work friendly jewelry or your waterproof jewelry that survived your last vacation, this guide will help you untangle a necklace chain like a pro—without breaking it.

Let’s dive in.

Step 1: Don’t Pull—Pause and Breathe

The biggest mistake? Tugging at the knot. That’s a one-way ticket to Snap City. Instead, lay your necklace flat on a clean, smooth surface (we love a marble countertop moment). Bonus points if it’s well-lit.

Tip: Make sure you're working with clean hands—especially if you're handling jewelry that is safe for sensitive skin or made of tarnish free jewelry materials.

Step 2: Use Baby Powder or Oil—Yes, Really

A little lubrication goes a long way. Dust a tiny bit of baby powder over the knot to help the links slide apart. No powder? A drop of baby oil or even olive oil works too. Just make sure to clean your piece thoroughly afterward, especially if it’s sweat-proof jewelry or jewelry that doesn’t tarnish—we want to keep that glow going strong!

Step 3: Grab a Pin (or Two)

Take a sewing pin, safety pin, or even a toothpick, and gently tease the knot apart. Two pins make this job even easier—like mini tweezers. Work from the outside of the knot inward, slowly loosening things up.

Pro tip: This is way more satisfying than it has any right to be.

Step 4: Wash & Dry It Like a Pro

After untangling, wipe off any powder or oil using a soft cloth and a bit of warm water. If your necklace is waterproof jewelry, you’re already winning at life—no fear of water damage here. If it’s also hypoallergenic jewelry, congrats—you’re rocking jewelry that doesn’t make your skin turn green and that’s worth celebrating.

How to Prevent Necklace Tangles (Because Who Has the Time?)

Untangling is a skill, but preventing tangles? That’s next-level. Here are a few jewelry-genius tips:

• Use straws or pill organizers: Slip one side of the chain through a straw before clasping. Works wonders.

• Hang your necklaces: Vertical storage helps keep your new jewelry styles and everyday favorites ready to grab and go.

• Invest in a travel jewelry case: Especially if you’re bringing your sweat-proof, tarnish free jewelry on your next vacay. (Saltwater is no joke.)

Bonus: When in Doubt, Choose the Right Jewelry

The easiest way to make sure your jewelry stays beautiful and low-maintenance? Choose pieces made to last. Think:

• Waterproof jewelry you can shower in

• Jewelry that doesn’t tarnish no matter how many meetings (or beach days) you have

• Jewelry that is safe for sensitive skin and hypoallergenic jewelry that won’t make you itchy halfway through brunch

You deserve accessories that work as hard as you do—from the office to happy hour to vacation mode.

Final Thoughts

Untangling a necklace might test your patience, but it doesn’t have to break your spirit—or your jewelry. Follow these simple steps and you’ll be back to layering your new jewelry trends in no time.

And hey—if your jewelry does break? It’s just a sign you’re due for something fresh. We heard there’s a drop of tarnish free, work friendly jewelry that’s sweat-proof and hypoallergenic... and you know it won’t tangle.