How to Care for Silver Flatware

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

Rate: (3 Ratings)

The rate at which you flatware tarnishes is determined by the climate in which it is kept. High humidity, skin oils, food particles and anything containing hydrogen sulphide (which covers a large amount of material in your environment) causes silver to tarnish. The best way to care for your silver flatware is to protect it and use it often.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1

Clean silver as soon as possible after using it and don't allow it to soak for any length of time. Certain acidic foods can be corrosive to silver if left in contact with it over time and soaking may damage the hollow handles or joints. Wash flatware by hand with warm, soapy water and rinse in hot water. Avoid washing it in the dishwasher and don't use dish soaps with lemon and chlorine additives.

Step2

Dry your silver with a soft cloth as soon as you've finished washing it to prevent spotting. As you're drying it, give it a good rubbing with the cloth to make it shine.

Step3

Polish silver with a good quality silver cream, available at most grocery stores, and follow the directions for that specific product. Don't use rubber gloves when polishing because of the corrosive effect it can have on the metal. Instead, use cotton or plastic gloves to protect your hands.

Step4

Store flatware in a special airtight storage chest, special tarnish proof flannel bags or an airtight plastic bag. Don't store flatware loose in a drawer because it is more likely to get scratched up.

Step5

Use your silver flatware regularly. It's meant to be used and enjoyed and may last for generations if you care for it and store it properly.

Tips & Warnings

The more you use silver flatware, the less it will tarnish.
Purchase tarnish-proof flannel fabric at most fabric stores if you choose to make your own storage bags for your flatware.