Don’t you just hate it when your necklaces get tangled? It can happen anytime too, especially when it’s most inconvenient.
You’ll be in a rush to go somewhere and this is when your necklaces decide they want to form the world’s tightest knot.
Talk about frustrating.
The worst of all is when they get tangled on your neck when you try to layer them.
You won’t get the look you’re going for, and you’ll spend too much time trying to get them free.
When you don’t wear or store them properly, they’re bound to tangle. Knowing how to keep necklaces from tangling is the solution.
Why do necklaces get tangled?
It’s all science. So before you get mad at yourself, remember it isn’t your fault (sorta).
Necklaces aren’t the only types of string-like objects that get tangled. Back when wired earphones were a thing, they were notorious for their tangles.
These knots can form in seconds. Even worse, there are many types of knots that can be formed.
It’s because we’re in an entropic universe. In nature, things go from organized to disorganized and messy very easily.
Let’s say you throw your necklace down onto a still, flat surface i. e, everything but laying it down gently and neatly.
It’s more likely to tangle than fall in a perfect loop. This is because there is only one way it can land correctly, but so many ways it can land incorrectly.
Other factors like where it’s placed, other necklaces, air moisture, temperature, etc, also play a role in tangling.
How to keep necklaces from tangling while wearing them
Do you have a tendency to play with your necklaces while you have them on?
If so, stop it. It’s more likely to tangle that way.
This isn’t the only way necklaces can get tangled while wearing them. But enough about what you shouldn’t do, let’s talk about what you should do.
This is how to keep your necklaces from tangling on your neck:
1. Use a necklace spacer
Someone got so fed up with tangled necklaces that they created a special tool to give their necklaces enough space from each other.
Necklace spacers are usually magnetic and come with small hooks and clasps that separate one necklace from the other.
It works by hooking each necklace to a corresponding clasp.
Necklace spacers or necklace layering clasps also come in different materials, so they can blend in with the rest of your jewelry.
So, you can get a silver clasp for silver and platinum necklaces, and a gold one for gold chains.
2. Wear necklaces of different lengths
Necklaces are easier to tangle when they are the same length. The best way to combat this is to leave a 2-inch difference between each layer.
Layered necklaces are less likely to rub against each other and get knotted or tangled.
Based on this concept, the further they are away from each other, the less likely they’ll tangle.
An example of great layering is pairing long and short necklaces. A choker (14-16 inches) is less likely to tangle with a matinee (20-25 inches).
And remember, less is more when layering.
3. Mix necklaces of different weights
You can keep your necklaces from tangling by wearing necklaces of different weights.
Light necklaces move around a lot and are easier to get tangled. Try layering with a heavier necklace that is less likely to move around.
You can also layer with strictly heavy necklaces if you’re unable to mix weights.
4. Layer necklaces made from different materials/textures
Layering necklaces made of different materials/textures is another great way to keep necklaces from tangling on your neck.
Metals are more likely to knot with metals, so perhaps pair a metal necklace with a fabric or bead necklace.
Layering necklaces that are made from different materials can be tricky and can end up looking funny if you don’t pair them well.
Think about the look you’re going for and try to make the best combination.
It’s always better to start with the lighter material and work your way down.
5. Link the necklaces together
If you don’t have a spacer, linking the necklaces together can be useful. You should be linking the clasp of one necklace to the clasp of another.
So, if you have two necklaces, put the clasp of the first one into the second one, and flip one around.
Even “The Doctors” use this method.
This might not work with all layerings, as it depends on the type of necklace chain, especially if you have a pendant or charm.
How to keep necklaces from tangling when storing
We’re advised to place our valuable jewelry in boxes and other storage mediums to keep them safe.
But, this still doesn’t prevent them from tangling.
How do you keep jewelry chains from tangling when storing? Well, keep reading to find out.
6. The traditional jewelry box
Most people keep their jewelry in a jewelry box, and too many people place them in there as-is.
The problem with this is that the jewelry will rub against each other, scratch, and tangle.
The best way to store jewelry in a jewelry box is to wrap individual pieces in tissue paper or leave them in the original bags.
If you can, get a jewelry box with different sections/compartments for specific types of jewelry to keep them apart.
Jewelry boxes allow you to keep everything in one place and keep them safe from the elements.
Another great benefit of jewelry boxes is that they keep your jewelry safe from prying eyes.
Some even come with special lock mechanisms that make it harder for your jewelry to be swiped from your box.
The more compartments a jewelry box is, and the more superior its materials are, the more it will end up costing you.
Jewelry boxes also place a limit on how much jewelry you can store at once.
Many people ignore this and overfill their jewelry boxes, but this is to the detriment of the jewelry.
7. Modern jewelry rolls
A jewelry roll is a type of storage for jewelry made of fabric or leather.
Jewelry rolls usually have different compartments and are made in such a way that they can be rolled like a towel or rag.
The drawback to this type of storage is that it isn’t ideal for storing jewelry long-term.
They are great for traveling, but beyond that, they lack the size and number of compartments to hold much jewelry.
8. Use a washcloth
You can make your own jewelry roll using a washcloth. This is best for traveling when you don’t have a small jewelry box or a jewelry roll.
All you have to do is place it in the washcloth and roll it up.
9. Good ol’ plastic wrap
Use plastic or cling wrap to prevent your necklaces from tangling in a jewelry box without separate compartments.
Simply lay the wrap, place the necklace on it, and wrap it up. You can use the same plastic multiple times, so you don’t have to worry much about wasting it.
Plastic wrap shouldn’t be your first choice for storing jewelry at home. It should be more like a temporary thing until you can get the right storage.
With this method, you’ll have to rewrap the pieces every time you wear them, and that can get a little annoying.
10. Get a necklace hanger stand
As the name suggests, a necklace hanger stand was designed specifically for hanging necklaces.
The necklaces are placed on the stand as clothes would be on a hanger.
One benefit of using a necklace hanger stand for storage is that you can see all of your necklaces at once.
This comes in especially handy when you’re running late and need to decide what necklace will complement your outfit.
This way, you won’t have to spend time digging around your jewelry box.
Necklaces on hanger stands are less likely to tangle because they’ll all be separate.
Many of them come padded as well so that your jewelry won’t scratch on the stand.
If you’re considering getting one for yourself, check out this Umbra Trigem Hanging Jewelry Organizer Tiered Tabletop Free Standing Necklace Holder.
It also comes with a tray at the bottom for storing rings and other small pieces of jewelry.
Avoid metal necklace stands. These can get rusty and affect your jewelry.
Also, one downside of necklace hanger stands is that since all your jewelry is out in the open, they’re subject to prying eyes and light fingers.
How to keep necklaces from tangling when traveling
Storing necklaces at home is different than storing them while traveling. At home, you’re free to choose a jewelry box of any size with as many compartments as you want.
When traveling, it’s a lot different. You don’t have the luxury of lugging around a big jewelry box, and why would you?
You should only bring what you need, and not take all your jewelry wherever you go.
Here’s how to keep necklaces from tangling while traveling:
11. The trick that made Deanna Giulietti famous, a straw
Deanna Giulietti went viral on TikTok after showing her secret for how to keep necklaces from tangling when traveling.
First, you’ll need a straw that’s about the same length as your necklace. Next, unclasp the necklace, feed it through then reclasp it.
It’s best to use reusable straws for this traveling hack because it’s better for the environment.
They’re also much sturdier than single-use straws.
This method is great for a weekend or a few days away, but it’s not the best method for long-term travel.
Plus, if you have a lot of necklaces, you’ll need a ton of reusable straws.
You’ll still need something jewelry-friendly to store them in, so this trick should really be a last resort.
12. Jewelry roll, again
Jewelry rolls are best used for travel. When purchasing, find one that can hold enough jewelry for at least a week of travel.
They are good for short-term trips and are a great way to keep your jewelry secure.
However, they aren’t the best option for long trips.
13. Try a foldable jewelry organizer
Foldable jewelry organizers are similar to jewelry rolls. They are smaller storage options, perfect for traveling and housing a small amount of jewelry.
The only difference between the two is that foldable organizers fold up like a purse or wallet, while jewelry rolls are literally rolled into place.
This type of storage is great because it’s discreet, and often, people aren’t able to distinguish them from regular purses.
They also fit nicely into your bag, just like a purse would, and the design is usually sleeker.
This too is only able to hold a limited amount of jewelry, so this option may not be suitable for long-term travel.
14. Get a travel jewelry box
Travel jewelry boxes are smaller than regular jewelry boxes. The concept is pretty much the same and your jewelry is likely to be a lot safer in a travel jewelry box than anything else.
This travel method is best when you’re traveling long-term, and you need something sturdy to house your jewelry.
If you’re traveling light, this may not be the best option to pack necklaces.
For instance, when backpacking or country hopping.
15. Use bubble wrap
If you can’t get any of the above options in time for your trip, bubble wrap will come to the rescue.
Lay the necklace flat on the bubble wrap, and carefully wrap it around until you think it’s secure.
Then, place it in a Ziploc bag. This should keep the jewelry safe and prevent it from rubbing against anything.
Note that this method is not suitable for a lengthy trip. This is just something you use when you need to improvise.
16. Get a jewelry storage case
If none of the other options appeal to you, consider getting a jewelry storage case.
You can even use it to store your charger and other rope/string-like items.
The jewelry case has a similar design to a toilet paper roll, except it has barriers at the end to keep the jewelry from sliding off.
All you have to do is wrap your necklace around the inside piece, then slide it inside the case.
This LASSO Tangle-Free Jewelry & Tech Accessory Organizer & Travel Storage Case is a great option if you’re looking for something sleek and small to carry your jewelry around.
The drawback to this travel method is, of course, the limitation on the amount of jewelry you can carry.
You can also only carry certain types of necklaces, so forget anything with a large pendant or bulky chain.
How to handle large statement necklaces
When traveling with larger statement necklaces, you have to take extra care to keep them safe.
Forget using a jewelry roll or foldable organizer. That simply won’t do. A travel jewelry box may be able to fit it, but in the worst-case scenario, use the bubble wrap and Ziploc (large freezer bag) method.
Final words
If your necklace does get tangled, the worst thing you can do is panic. Forcing the knot will only make it worse.
Use baby powder to reduce the friction between the chains. This will make it easier to detangle.
Just be sure to clean it off afterward. You can also use baby oil, olive oil, and even Windex.
If the knot is tight, you may need the help of a needle or safety pin. Place it in the center of the knot and wiggle it until you’re able to loosen and untangle it.
Be careful not to prick yourself or scratch your necklace.
FAQS
How do you keep jewelry chains from tangling?
Keep jewelry chains from tangling using spacers, layering and different jewelry storage options.
These include jewelry boxes, jewelry rolls, jewelry foldable organizers and jewelry storage cases.
How do you hang a necklace without tangling?
Use a necklace hanger stand with separators to hang a necklace without tangling.
How do you use a detangler necklace?
Also known as a necklace spacer, detanglers work by clasping each necklace to individual hooks/clasps to keep them separated.