How To Clean Silver

Here's how to clean silver to restore its shine without damaging it.

When silver becomes tarnished or scratched, it can lose its luster and appeal. There are many ways to bring silver back to its original beauty, both through commercial silver polishing products and homemade alternatives.

There are differences in the types of silver you will encounter.

Silver Plate -- Plating allows for silver to be applied to a cheaper base metal, to give the appearance of silver without the expense. Be careful cleaning silver plate and don't rub through the plating.

Sterling Silver -- A metal alloy of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper). Since sterling silver is an alloy, you won't be able to rub off the silver, but these pieces tend to be more valuable than plate. When cleaning sterling silver handle with care.

With everyday silver pieces, cleaning them at home is very effective. Cleaning solutions are available for sale in most retail stores, and are specially formulated for silver. Solutions can also be made at home, with various items that are likely already in the cupboard. Caution should be used, no matter the method, to prevent irreparable damage to the silver.

How to Clean Silver -- Commercial Cleaning Solutions

For beginners, purchasing a ready-made silver polish is the best way to go. Most solutions come with a sponge or cloth. If not, any soft, lint-free cloth will do.

1. Wipe the silver piece with a dry cloth to remove any dust or dirt.

2. Get some polish onto the cloth or sponge by dipping a corner into the container. Don't get too much at once.

3. Gently wipe the silver piece, using back and forth motions. Do not use circular motions. Be sure to remove any residue during the process. Do not scrub too vigorously, as this can remove the silver plate.

4. Hold the silver piece beneath gently running, warm water to rinse.

5. Dry with a soft cloth.

There are also silver dips available for sale, but these are generally not recommended. They are caustic, the fumes can be harmful, and the chances are increased that the silver will be damaged.

How to Clean Silver -- Homemade Cleaning Solutions

Simple cleaning solutions can be made at home, using common household ingredients.

Toothpaste is an excellent silver polish for small items. It's important to use only plain, white toothpaste, with no added flavors or whitening agents.

1.Squeeze some toothpaste onto a finger or soft, damp cloth.

2.Gently rub the silver, using straight back and forth motions.

3.Rinse the silver in warm water.

4.Dry with a soft cloth.

For larger pieces, make a paste of baking soda and water. Use a soft cloth or sponge. Use this just the same as the commercial cleaning solution.

Storing Silver

Just as important as frequently polishing and cleaning silver, is storing it properly. How silver is stored has a direct affect on how quickly it begins to tarnish. There are felt cloths specially made for silver storage, as well as storage chests lined with the felt. These chests are good for flatware and smaller items. Larger items, such as serving trays, can be wrapped in the felt and stored in a box. If storing the silver in a display cabinet or hutch, cannisters of silicon gel can be placed inside, to prevent excess moisture that tarnishes silver quickly.

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