How to Clean Silver Jewelry With Household Items

Household items can give silver jewelry back its shine.

Silver jewelry makes for a classic and becoming adornment. Keeping the jewelry looking that way requires a monthly cleaning. To do so, many people purchase commercial silver cleaners and polishes. If you do not wish to buy these products or are uncomfortable using them in your home, you can clean silver jewelry with many household items.

Things You'll Need

• Toothbrush
• White toothpaste or baking soda
• Water
• Soft, lint-free cloth
• Jewelry bag

Instructions

1. Get a toothbrush. An old, soft toothbrush is an effective means for cleaning silver jewelry.

2. Choose your cleaning agent. Two common household products that will safely clean your silver jewelry are white toothpaste and baking soda.

3. Apply a small quantity of the cleaning agent to your toothbrush.

4. Use the toothbrush to scrub your silver jewelry thoroughly, taking care to get into any hidden areas. As you scrub, avoid any stone settings. You will need to clean these using a method safe for that particular stone.

5. Rinse your silver jewelry with water. Dry the jewelry with a soft, lint-free cloth.

6. Store your silver jewelry in a jewelry bag.

References

• 2,001 Amazing Cleaning Secrets; Jeff Bredenburg; 2004 (pg. 313)
• The Complete Idiot's Guide to Household Solutions; Melodie Moore; 1998 (pg. 93)

Resources

• Gemological Institute of America: Caring for Jewelry - What You need to Know