How to Avoid Getting Necklaces Tangled Up

woman wearing layered necklaces with a beaded strand, gold necklace, and gold chain with a pendant

We’ve all been there. You open your jewelry box, excited to wear that perfect necklace, only to find it’s hopelessly tangled. That delicate gold chain you love is twisted into a knot so tight it could rival a sailor’s knot. Whether it’s from tossing necklaces together in a drawer or a night of tossing and turning in bed, tangled necklaces can test even the most patient of us. But don’t worry—we’ve got the tricks and tips to keep your favorite pieces untangled, so you can get back to layering necklaces in style!

Why Do My Necklaces Get Tangled?

Let’s start by addressing the mystery. Why do necklaces get tangled in the first place? It’s a cruel twist of fate, isn’t it? The primary culprit is friction. When chains rub together or move in a confined space, they naturally twist and knot. Add a dash of gravity or an overly enthusiastic jewelry organizer, and you’ve got yourself a tangled mess. Another reason? Your pieces are sometimes the victims of overzealous movement—like when you're wearing multiple at once and they naturally link up or slide together.

Ultimately, pieces tangle because of a combination of their delicate design, the unpredictable nature of storage, and sometimes, well, just bad luck. But don’t fret! We’ve got you covered with ways to prevent and untangle them, so you can always shine effortlessly.

What To Do When Your Necklace is Tangled

Ever found your favorite necklace hopelessly tangled in your hair? It’s like a cruel joke from the universe—especially when it’s the necklace you just spent hours trying to find. Start by gently separating the necklace from your strands. Using a fine-tooth comb or your fingers, delicately work through the tangle in your hair, being careful not to pull. Once it’s free, be sure to store it in a way that keeps it from encountering future hair misadventures.

When two necklaces have locked themselves in a passionate embrace, it can feel impossible to separate them without causing damage. Start by laying both necklaces flat on a surface. Gently, but firmly, begin to pull the chains apart at their connection points. Try using a thin pin or needle to slide between the knots to loosen them. It’s all about patience here—take your time to wiggle the chains free without tugging too hard. Once they’re untangled, store them separately to avoid any future entanglements.

Necklace Untangling Tricks To Try

Tangled necklaces can be a headache, but here are some quick and effective tricks to save you time and frustration:

  1. The Pin Method: Grab a small safety pin or sewing needle, and carefully insert it into the knot. Slowly, move the pin back and forth as you work to loosen the knot. With a bit of patience, you’ll be able to gently pull the chain apart.
  2. The Toothpick Trick: If your chain has worked itself into a particularly stubborn knot, try using a wooden toothpick. Gently insert it into the tangle, and twist it back and forth to loosen the knot. This method works well on fine chains that might be too delicate for a pin or needle.
  3. Prevent Future Knots: After the battle of the tangled necklace, make sure you’re storing your jewelry properly to prevent future chaos. Use individual pouches, separate compartments, or even a jewelry tree to keep each piece from getting twisted up together. If you’re traveling, invest in a travel jewelry case with designated spots for each necklace, or use shower curtain rings (these work especially well with chain necklaces). Trust us—it’s worth it.

Say Goodbye to Tangled Necklaces

Necklaces may be delicate, but they don’t have to be a source of stress. With these simple tricks, you’ll never have to face a tangled chain when you’re layering necklaces again. Take a deep breath, work patiently, and let your stunning pieces shine with effortless elegance.

Shop for multiple necklaces and pendants with confidence so you can layer a look you'll love without worrying about untangling.

Previous Article