The best DIY silver cleaners include salt, baking soda, aluminum foil, and water.
Silver cleaners can be abrasive, so limit cleanings to when the pieces genuinely need them.
Silver sulfide may flake off heavily tarnished silver items when cleaning.
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Here’s how to clean silver with a few ingredients you likely have around the house.
It is not recommended forfine silverortarnished jewelryset with gemstones or pearls.
Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area.
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You will also be using boiling water so take precautions to prevent accidents.
Use a plastic tub that will handle boiling water without getting damaged.
This method works best for heavily tarnished items that should stay longer in the heated solution.
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Place Silver on Foil
Place your silver pieces on top of the aluminum foil.
Ensure they are touching the aluminum foil but the pieces should not touch each other.
Add Boiling Water
Pour enough boiling water into the pan to completely cover the silver.
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Most high-end jewelry stores offer this service for a fee, whether you purchased your items there or not.
Tips to Prevent Tarnish on Silver
Vinegar and baking soda will react with silver to remove tarnish.
No, baking soda and aluminum foil do not damage silver.
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They cause an electrolytic action which helps remove tarnish.
Toothpaste is an abrasive substance that can damage silver and other metals.
Do not use anything harsh or abrasive to clean silver.
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Avoid putting silver in the dishwasher.
The appliance’s high heat could dull or damage your silver.
Chemistry.University of Massachussetts, Amherst.
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