How to Clean a Tarnished Silver Punch Bowl

Tarnish is that dark layer of corrosion that mars the shiny look of silver and takes away its luster. Corrosion is a slow-acting form of rust that if left untreated can eventually damage the item. Getting rid of tarnish is easier than it looks. With the right materials you can eliminate it, and your silver punch bowl can once again shine.

Things You'll Need

• Baking soda
• Sponge
• Clean cloth

Instructions

1. Mix baking soda and water into a thick paste.

2. Apply the paste to a clean, damp sponge and rub it gently onto the tarnished areas.

3. Rinse the paste away under hot running water. If the tarnished area is a large one, leave the paste on the affected area for an hour before rinsing.

4. Dry the punch bowl with a soft, clean cloth to remove any residual moisture, and buff to bring back the shine.

Tips & Warnings

• For small areas of tarnish, apply a small amount of white toothpaste to a clean cloth and rub gently until the tarnish is gone.

• Avoid the use of harsh chemicals and abrasives that may scratch the silver.

References

• A Brief History of Tarnish
• Clean Your Silver With Household Basics
• Cleaning the Green Way