How to Clean Silver at Home

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Polishing and cleaning silver can be done at home without having to spend on expensive products. Read on to know more.

The most common problem with silverware and jewelry is the tarnish that forms on it. This tarnish is formed when silver is exposed to moisture and turns black, gray, and even green at times.

The precious stones that are found on such items can make it quite difficult to clean it, and hence it is essential to determine the right method before you begin. Here are a few methods that might help you.

Do-it-Yourself

You will need to prepare a homemade jewelry cleaner using simple household items like baking soda, aluminum foil, and soap. To begin with, clean the jewelry with a mild soap and plain water.

Next, place it under running water, pour some liquid soap on an old, soft-bristled toothbrush and then gently run the brush over it. Clean all the grooves and corners and then rinse under plain running water. Place it on a soft towel.

Now, line a pan with aluminum foil and add hot water. Add 2 tablespoons of baking soda to the hot water and stir until it dissolves thoroughly. Place the silver jewelry in the water, such that the silver touches the aluminum foil.

Let it stay for around half an hour and then remove it from the pan. Rinse it under cool running water and dry it on a soft towel. You will notice a sparkle on your jewelry like it is brand new.

Silver necklaces, especially snake chains and one that have some intricate designs and patterns, can be extremely difficult to clean. Therefore, for this you need to use silver polish that is commercially available. These polishes will work better in cleaning ornaments that are otherwise difficult to clean.

You may make use of baking soda paste that is a little strong as compared to the aluminum foil method. Mix some baking soda with water to form a thick paste. Rub this paste on jewelry and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently work the paste onto the silver. Let it stay for a while. Then, rinse off the paste and thoroughly dry the silver with a soft towel.

Ways to Clean Silver-Plated Items

Silver-plated items can be cleaned effectively using a toothpaste that does not contain any gel. Dab some toothpaste on item and use a soft wash cloth to work the toothpaste on it.

Apply it in circular motions and then rinse with warm running water. You may also use water to rinse the silver plated item and then dry it with a soft towel or washcloth.

Silver can be protected from tarnishing by storing it in jewelry boxes and cleaning it immediately after use. Also make sure that it does not come in contact with moisture that can tarnish it.