Understanding Crystal Care: Cleansing Crystals Not to Cleanse in Water or Salt

How to Cleanse Crystals in Water for Optimal Energy Renewal

 

Cleansing crystals in water is a popular and effective method to restore their natural energy and remove any accumulated negativity. However, it's crucial to follow the correct procedures to ensure the safety and preservation of your precious crystals. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the step-by-step process of cleansing crystals in water, including the necessary precautions and the benefits of this purifying technique. By understanding and implementing these practices, you can enhance the energetic properties of your crystals and elevate your spiritual journey.

1. Selecting the Right Crystals:
Not all crystals are suitable for water cleansing. Before proceeding, ensure that the crystals you intend to cleanse are water-safe. Crystals like selenite, opal, and angelite are water-sensitive and should not be submerged. Instead, opt for alternative cleansing methods like energy cleansing or moonlight. 

2. Preparing the Water:
Use clean and purified water for crystal cleansing. Filtered or distilled water is ideal to avoid any impurities that may affect the crystal's energy. You can also enhance the cleansing properties by adding sea salt or a few drops of essential oils like lavender or sage to the water.

3. Setting the Intention:
Before beginning the cleansing process, set your intention for the purification of your crystals. Visualize the negative energies being washed away, leaving the crystals revitalized and filled with positive energy.

4. Submerging the Crystals:
Gently place the crystals in the water, ensuring they are fully submerged. Allow them to soak for the recommended duration based on their sensitivity and cleansing requirements. Refer to our previous article on "Determining the Recommended Duration for Cleansing Crystals in Water" for specific guidelines.

5. Monitoring the Cleansing Process:
While the crystals are soaking, observe any changes in the water's appearance or energy. It's not uncommon for the water to become cloudy or for bubbles to form as the crystals release negativity. This is a sign that the cleansing process is taking place.

6. Rinsing and Drying:
After the recommended duration, carefully remove the crystals from the water. Rinse them under running water to ensure all residual negativity is washed away. Pat them dry with a soft cloth or allow them to air dry naturally.

7. Charging and Reconnecting:
Once your crystals are cleansed, it's essential to recharge their energy. Place them in sunlight or moonlight for a few hours, allowing them to absorb the revitalizing energy of nature. Alternatively, you can use crystal clusters, selenite, or sound to recharge them.

8. Storing and Maintenance:
Store your cleansed and charged crystals in a safe and sacred space. Regularly cleanse and recharge them to maintain their optimal energetic properties. Avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, or prolonged sunlight, as these factors can affect their integrity.

Determining the Recommended Duration for Cleansing Crystals in Water

 

Cleansing crystals in water is a common and effective method to purify and recharge their energy. However, it is essential to determine the appropriate duration for soaking different types of crystals to avoid potential damage or energetic imbalance. In this article, we will explore the recommended submersion times for various crystal types, categorized as sensitive crystals, moderate exposure, and intense cleansing. By understanding these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and thorough cleansing process for your precious crystals.

Crystals not to Cleanse in Water

Crystals are not created equal - some are water-soluble, others contain metals that might oxidize, and some have a delicate composition that could dissolve or fade in water. Here's a list of crystals that should never be cleansed in water:

1. Selenite: Known for its ethereal glow, Selenite is a delicate crystal that can dissolve in water.
2. Lepidolite: This lithium-rich crystal can lose its shine and structure when exposed to water.
3. Azurite: Azurite's deep-blue colour can fade and its structure can degrade with water exposure.
4. Halite: Also known as rock salt, Halite is completely soluble in water.
5. Angelite: This soft, blue stone can be damaged by water.
6. Calcite: Comes in many colours and can dissolve in water.
7. Celestite: Its heavenly blue clusters could lose lustre in water.
8. Chrysocolla: A copper stone, Chrysocolla can lose its vibrant colour in water.
9. Desert Rose: A type of Selenite and Gypsum, it can dissolve in water.
10. Malachite: This copper carbonate hydroxide mineral can be damaged by water.

Others include:

• Pyrite
• Labradorite
• Turquoise
• Fluorite
• Gypsum
• Jet
• Lapis Lazuli
• Moonstone
• Opal
• Pyrite
• Red Coral
• Sodalite
• Tangerine Quartz
• Ulexite

Although many of these crystals will tolerate a rinse under running water occasionally, and sources do vary in their personal opinions, we want your precious treasures to last! We feel these crystals should be cleansed using methods such as smudging, sound therapy, or burying in the earth. (this list is not exhaustive) If in doubt, leave it out!

 

Crystals Suitable For Moderate Exposure to Water:

 

Crystals that benefit from a thorough cleansing and recharge through a soak in water for minutes or hours fall under this category. Here are some examples and their recommended submersion times:

1. Amethyst: Soak amethyst in water for 20-30 minutes to cleanse and recharge its energy. Longer exposure may cause fading.

2. Carnelian: Submerge carnelian in water for 15-20 minutes to cleanse and revitalize its vibrant energy.

3. Citrine: Place citrine in water for 30-45 minutes to cleanse and recharge its positive energy. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight to prevent colour fading.

Crystals Suitable for Intense Cleansing in Water:

For particularly dense or heavily used crystals, a longer soaking duration is recommended to achieve an intense cleansing. Here are some examples and their recommended submersion times:

1. Black Tourmaline: Soak black tourmaline in water overnight or for multiple nights to release accumulated negative energy and purify its protective properties.

2. Clear Quartz: Submerge clear quartz in water for 24-48 hours to cleanse and recharge its amplifying energy. Make sure the water is clean and free from impurities.

3. Hematite: Soak hematite in water for 12-24 hours to rid it of any accumulated negative energies and restore its grounding properties.


Determining the recommended duration for cleansing crystals in water is crucial to maintain their integrity and energetic balance. Sensitive crystals require shorter exposure times or alternative cleansing methods, while moderate exposure and intense cleansing crystals benefit from specific submersion times. Many sources vary in their opinions on which crystals should and should not be exposed to water, and each crystal has it's own personality in terms of structure, which can influence it's response to contact with water. Therefore, although following these guidelines and using water as a cleansing tool mindfully, you can help your crystals be revitalised, energetically balanced, and ready to support you on your spiritual journey, remember to consult crystal experts or trusted sources for specific recommendations on cleansing duration for unique crystal types and individual shapes not covered in this article. Always follow the simple rule "If in doubt, leave it out."

 

A Complete Guide To Crystal Cleansing With Salt

 

People use salt to cleanse crystals because salt has long been recognized for its purifying and cleansing properties. Here are a few reasons why salt is commonly used for crystal cleansing:

1. Absorbs Negative Energies: Salt is believed to have the ability to absorb and neutralise negative energies accumulated in crystals. When crystals are exposed to various energies, they can become energetically imbalanced. Salt acts as a natural absorber, pulling away these unwanted energies and restoring the crystal's natural energetic state.

2. Restores Energetic Balance: Crystals have the capacity to absorb and hold onto energies, both positive and negative. Over time, this accumulation can affect their energetic balance and effectiveness. Salt cleansing helps to reset and restore the crystal's energy, allowing it to function optimally once again.

3. Removes Environmental Pollutants: Crystals can also absorb environmental pollutants and energetic residue from their surroundings. Salt's cleansing properties help to remove these impurities, leaving the crystal energetically cleansed and ready to be used for healing and spiritual purposes.

4. Enhances Crystal's Vibrations: Crystal vibrations are essential for their healing properties. When crystals are cleansed in salt, it is believed to remove any stagnant or low vibrations, allowing the crystal to resonate at its highest frequency. This helps the crystal to enhance its healing abilities and promote positive energy flow.

5. Provides a Fresh Start: Cleansing crystals in salt is not only beneficial for removing negative energies but also acts as a symbolic way to start anew. It allows individuals to release any energetic baggage or emotional attachments associated with the crystals, creating space for new intentions and positive energies.

Crystals not to Cleanse in Salt

Salt has been used for millennia for its purifying properties. However, not all crystals can withstand a salt bath. It's important to note that while salt is widely used for crystal cleansing, not all crystals are suitable for this method. Some crystals are sensitive to salt or water and may be damaged or disintegrate. It's always advisable to research and consult reliable sources to ensure the appropriate cleansing method for each crystal type. Salt can scratch the surface of some crystals, causing them to lose their shine. Here's a list of crystals that should not be cleansed in salt:

1. Pyrite: Known as "fool's gold," Pyrite can rust in salt.
2. Labradorite: This magical stone's iridescent colours can be dulled by salt.
3. Turquoise: Salt can damage this sacred stone’s structure and colour.
4. Hematite: It contains iron that can rust in salt.
5. Fluorite: Known for its range of colours, Fluorite can be scratched by salt.
6. Gypsum: As a very soft stone, Gypsum can be damaged by salt.
7. Jet: This fossilized wood can be scratched by salt.
8. Lapis Lazuli: Its deep blue can fade and its gold flecks can be dulled by salt.
9. Moonstone: Salt can scratch this stone associated with the moon.
10. Opal: This delicate stone can be scratched by salt.

These crystals, and many more, should be cleansed using methods such as moonlight or smoke from sage or palo santo.


Proper crystal care is essential for maintaining their beauty and potential healing properties. Understanding which crystals should not be cleansed in water or salt is an important aspect of this care. Always research your crystals' care needs to ensure they can continue to provide their unique vibrational energy. Remember, this list is not exhaustive, and different crystals have different needs. Always do your research or consult with a crystal expert to ensure you're caring for your crystals in the best way possible.

 

How to Cleanse Crystals in Salt for Enhanced Energy Cleansing

 

Cleansing crystals in salt is a widely practiced method for purifying and rejuvenating their energy. Salt has long been recognized for its ability to absorb negative energies and restore balance to crystals. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of cleansing crystals in salt, the types of salt to use, and the benefits of this cleansing technique. By following these guidelines, you can effectively cleanse your crystals and enhance their energetic properties.

1. Choosing the Right Salt:
Selecting the appropriate salt is crucial for crystal cleansing. Natural sea salt, Himalayan salt, or kosher salt are highly recommended due to their purity and mineral content. Avoid using table salt, as it may contain additives that can negatively impact your crystals.

2. Preparing the Cleansing Solution:
To create a saltwater solution, dissolve a tablespoon of salt in a bowl of clean, purified water. Ensure the salt is completely dissolved before proceeding. You can also enhance the cleansing properties by adding a few drops of essential oils such as lavender or sage.

3. Setting the Intention:
Before beginning the cleansing process, set your intention for purifying and renewing the energy of your crystals. Visualize the saltwater solution as a powerful cleanser that will remove any negative energies, leaving your crystals refreshed and energetically charged.

4. Submerging the Crystals:
Carefully place your crystals in the saltwater solution, ensuring they are fully submerged. Allow them to soak for a recommended duration, typically ranging from a few hours to overnight. More delicate crystals may require shorter soaking times to prevent any potential damage.

5. Observing the Cleansing Process:
While the crystals are submerged, pay attention to any changes that occur. You may notice bubbles forming around the crystals or a cloudy appearance in the water. These signs indicate that the saltwater is actively absorbing and neutralizing negative energies from the crystals.

6. Rinsing and Drying:
After the recommended duration, remove the crystals from the saltwater solution. Rinse them under running water to wash away any residual salt. Gently pat them dry with a soft cloth or allow them to air dry naturally.

7. Recharging and Reconnecting:
To restore the energy of your crystals, place them in sunlight or moonlight for a few hours. Alternatively, you can use crystal clusters, selenite, or sound to recharge them. Allow your crystals to absorb the revitalizing energy of nature and reconnect with their higher vibrations.

8. Storing and Maintenance:
Store your cleansed and charged crystals in a safe and sacred space, away from harsh chemicals and excessive sunlight. Regularly cleanse and recharge them to maintain their optimal energetic properties. Remember to handle your crystals with care, as some may be more delicate and prone to damage.

Conclusion:
Cleansing crystals in water or salt is a powerful and accessible method to remove negative energies and restore their energetic balance. Choose your time for water exposure, choose the right salt, prepare the cleansing solution, set your intention, submerge the crystals, observe the cleansing process, rinse and dry them properly, recharge them in natural energy sources, and store them with care. Embrace the transformative power of water and salt to cleanse and renew the energy of your precious crystals, allowing them to support and guide you on your spiritual journey.