Tips on Cleaning and Polishing Silverware

The warm sheen of silverware and various silver heirlooms that have been handed down over generations will eventually fade. Tarnish inevitably follows, leaving the silver discolored and dull. While you might think that cleaning tarnished silver would be difficult, the process is actually simple and easy.

Use these tips on cleaning and polishing silverware to keep the tarnish away.

What Causes Tarnish?

There are steps that you can take to minimize tarnishing on your silver pieces, but they will eventually tarnish over time. Sulphur is a natural element in the air around us.

When this gas comes in contact with silver, a chemical reaction occurs. The result of this chemical reaction is tarnished silver. Unless your silver is completely sealed against air, it will tarnish.

Natural Cleaning Methods

There are numerous silver cleaning products available at local stores and online, but these commercial products typically have harsh and unnecessary chemicals. More than that, they cost a small fortune. The good news is that several items that are likely in your pantry right now are effective.

Baking Soda and Aluminum Foil Method

Baking soda and aluminum are effective at cleaning heavily tarnished silverware. Line a baking dish that is large enough to accommodate all of your silverware with aluminum foil. For larger pieces, use a bowl or even your kitchen sink. The container should be large enough to completely submerge your items.

Boil an adequate amount of water to cover the items. Then, add two teaspoon of kosher salt and a quarter-cup of baking soda. If you are cleaning larger items that require more items, add more salt and baking soda. Once you do, you’ll see bubbles indicating the chemical reaction is occurring. After 30 minutes, pull out the silver, and dry it using a microfiber cloth.

Vinegar and Baking Soda Paste

Vinegar and baking soda also make a chemical reaction that effectively removes tarnish. Make a paste using baking soda and hot water.

Cover the silverware with the paste, and place the silverware in a baking dish lined with aluminum foil. Fill the dish with enough vinegar to cover the silverware. After 30 minutes, pull out the silverware and wipe it dry with a microfiber cloth.

Polishing Techniques

After removing tarnish from silverware and other silver items, they should be polished. There are two primary methods used to polish silverware. Before cleaning silver, you should know if your products are sterling silver or are silver-plated. Ensure that you use a technique suitable for the type of silver you have.

Commercial Silver Polishes

Carefully read the instructions before using a commercial silver polish for the first time. Each product has different guidelines to optimize the results and to avoid damaging the silver.

Many of these products are creams, but there are also silver polishing wipes.

Silver Polishing Cloths

Silver cloths are often sold with silver jewelry, but you can also purchase them online. This is a non-abrasive material that will remove fingerprints, smudges and even mild tarnish without damaging the silver. Simply rub the cloth against the silver in smooth, firm motions.

FAQs

Can I Put Silverware in the Dishwasher?

You can wash silverware in the dishwasher. However, you should use the gentle cleaning cycle with low heat.

What Should I Avoid When Cleaning Silverware?

When cleaning silverware, you should be aware of several things that could damage it. High heat, for example, accelerates the tarnishing process. Soaps that contain phosphates and citric acid also speed up the tarnishing process.

Washing other metals with silverware could result in pitting or yellowing. After washing, avoid letting the silverware air dry. Moisture can result in corrosion or staining, so it should be removed promptly.

How Do I Store Silverware to Prevent Tarnish?

How you store your silverware affects how quickly tarnish develops. Each piece of silverware should be stored individually without touching the other pieces. Invest in a special anti-tarnish container or bag, and place an absorbent piece of chalk in the container to soak up excess moisture.

At Cleanzen, we are committed to helping you enjoy all of the benefits of a clean home, and we even tackle special projects like cleaning and polishing silverware. Our cleaning pros are eager to visit your home soon. Contact us today to schedule affordable cleaning services in Boston for your home.