Though silver brings brilliance to jewellery, tableware, and decorative objects, it is also known to tarnish easily. That’s why it is important to give your silverware a good clean and polish regularly. Read on for our step-by-step guide on how to clean tarnished silver.
Note, if you are cleaning items that contain precious gems check with a jeweller before using these methods.
How to clean tarnished silver in 7 simple steps
This is your simple go-to method for cleaning tarnished silver.
Line a bowl with kitchen foil. Use as many foil sheets as you need to cover the bottom of the bowl.
1. Fill the bowl with hot water
You need enough water to wholly cover your silver items.
2. Add one tablespoon of laundry detergent
Regular laundry powder or liquid works fine. Give it a stir with the tongs.
3. Soak your silverware
Leave your items in the mixture for a couple of minutes.
4. Remove the silverware
Use the tongs if the water is still hot. If there is any tarnish remaining, put it back in the bowl for a further minute or two. Repeat as necessary.
5. Rinse with clean water
When all the tarnish has gone, run under a tap, ensuring you remove all traces of detergent.
6. Leave to air-dry
Lay out your items on a teatowel, keeping them separate so they don’t scratch each other.
Top tip: The method above also works great if you’re trying to figure out how to clean tarnished sterling silver.