Be sure to always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your piercing. Soak a clean Q-tip with warm salt water (1/4 tsp. for every 8 oz cup) and gently wipe away any “crusties” that have gathered around the piercing. Rinse the piercing and jewelry several times with warm water to remove any salt left behind. Dry your piercing with a clean Q-tip. Avoid any unnecessary touching. Cloth towels, especially ones that have already been used, can harbor germs and bacteria. It is safest to use a clean paper towel. If you have to use a fabric cloth or towel, make sure it has been freshly laundered.