Screw-back earrings are one of the safest and most comfortable choices for children. The back screws onto a threaded post, making it much harder for a curious child to remove, and much less likely for the earring to fall off. If you have read our guide on what to look for in your child’s first earrings and our guide to screw-back earrings, you already know why 18K gold and secure backs are best for little ears. Here is how to close them correctly, step by step.
Step 1: Start with Clean Hands and Earrings
Wash your hands thoroughly before handling your child’s earrings. Make sure the earrings and earlobes are clean and completely dry. A gentle wipe with saline solution or rubbing alcohol on the earring helps prevent irritation.
Step 2: Hold the Front Steady
Gently hold the front of the earring, the decorative side, between your thumb and index finger. This keeps the post from turning while you attach the back and keeps the design straight.
Step 3: Twist the Screw-Back, Not the Post
With your other hand, slowly turn the screw-back clockwise onto the post. You will feel it catch on the threads; keep turning until it is snug but not tight. Two or three full turns are usually enough. Turning too much can push the post through the back, leaving the tip exposed. If that happens, replace the screw-back right away to avoid pinching or irritation.
Tip: if the back feels stuck, stop and realign it with the post before continuing. Forcing it can damage the threads.
Step 4: Check the Fit
The back should rest comfortably against the earlobe without pressing. Too tight can irritate the skin; too loose and it may unscrew over time. A small space, about the thickness of a credit card, between the back and the ear is ideal.
Step 5: Check the Earrings Regularly
Children are active, so check their earrings once or twice a week to make sure the backs have not loosened. Gentle adjustments are enough; avoid over-tightening.
Why Screw-Back Earrings Are Ideal for Kids
- Secure fit: reduces the risk of losing the earring.
- Smooth, rounded backs: less likely to poke or scratch delicate skin.
- Comfortable all day: the flat, secure back stays comfortable for everyday wear, including naps.
Shop 18K Gold Screw-Back Earrings
Taking a few moments to close your child’s earrings correctly keeps them comfortable and secure all day long. All our screw-back earrings for babies and kids are crafted in hypoallergenic 18K gold. Explore them, along with all our baby and kids earrings.
