How to Polish Tarnishing Silver

Ever pulled out your prized china and flatware in anticipation of a special occasion, only to find that your silver flatware is tarnished? You are not alone. Tarnished silver can be very upsetting, especially if it is a family heirloom. But there is no reason to fret, because a do-it-yourself solution is available. Save your treasured silver flatware for a minimal amount of money from the comfort of your own home--follow the instructions below to restore your tarnished silver.

Things You'll Need

• Dish detergent
• Three teaspoons salt
• Warm water
• One quart boiled water
• Aluminum foil
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• Clean, lint-free rag
• Two pots, one with lid

Instructions

1. Wash silver with warm water and dish detergent.

2. Put silver in aluminum foil-lined pot.

3. Boil 1 quart of water in separate pot.

4. Add 1/4 cup baking soda and 3 teaspoons salt to boiled water.

5. Pour water mixture into pot with tarnished silver.

6. Cover pot with lid.

7. Let sit for 5 minutes.

8. Rinse silver

9. Dry silver with clean, lint-free rag.

Tips & Warnings

• Store silver in acid-free tissue paper to avoid tarnishing.

• Do not place tarnished silver into dishwasher, as it could cause further damage.

References

• Household Cleaning Tips