Purify and Shine: The Ultimate Guide To Crystal Cleansing

When you acquire a new crystal it is important to cleanse it to remove any stress or negative vibrations. It is especially important if the crystal was previously used as an energy crystal or was worn by someone else. Cleansing is also suggested before and after working with your crystals for healing and protection. There are many cleansing methods and some are better suited to certain crystals due to their fragility. Always check the information about the crystal you are about to cleanse before cleansing it.

Photo by KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA

Some crystals never need cleansing, including citrine and kyanite.

Crystal Cleansing With Water

Crystals can be washed under a running tap. There are a few, including selenite, that should not get wet. Be sure to check the information for your crystals to know which ones should avoid water. After washing your crystals let them air dry or use a soft cloth to dry them.

Crystal Cleansing With Soil

You can also cleanse your crystals by burying them in soil for 24 hours. This can even be done in potted plants.

Using Other Crystals to Cleanse

Amethyst, selenite, and carnelian are all crystals that can be used to cleanse other crystals. Rest the crystal to be cleansed on the amethyst or selenite for 24 hours.

Cleansing in Sunlight

Sunlight is excellent for vibrant coloured crystals. Some crystals should not be left in sunlight because their colour may fade. This includes amethyst, citrine, rose quartz, and smoky quartz. Check the information for your crystals before cleansing them in sunlight.

Cleansing in Moonlight

Photo by samer D

Softer shades of crystals are better suited to moonlight cleansing. Put these crystals outside under a full moon or on a window ledge inside under the moonlight.

Learn more here: Crystal Cleansing Under The Full Moon

Crystal Cleansing With Sound

Use bells or singing bowls to cleanse your crystals. Ring the bell or strike the bowl over the crystals and hold until the sound stops. Repeat this several times.

Incense or Smudging

Photo by Karolina Grabowska

Circle a burning smudge or incense stick for several minutes over the crystals to be cleansed. Then leave it to burn beside the crystals.


When cleansing with any of the above methods remember to set your intention to clear any negative energy and visualize the crystals being restored to their optimal state. And don’t forget… always check whether a specific crystal is sensitive to water or sunlight before using those cleansing methods.

Which cleansing method is your favourite? Tell us about it in the comments below!