Silverware Stain Removal

New stainless silverware is shiny.

After nearly a century of silver plate and sterling use, everyday flatware is now stainless in most homes in the U.S. Collectors favor the old patterns in silver plate or sterling but do not use these for everyday flatware. If your silverware is stainless, you have seen the rainbow marks from heat and the dark marks from acid foods. These marks are removable, and your stainless flatware can look nearly new. Silver and silver-plated flatware need more gentle care, but will also clean like new.

Things You'll Need

• White vinegar
• Soft cloths
• Bowl or dishpan
• Dishwashing liquid
• Silver polish
• Baking soda

Instructions

Stainless

1. Select the pieces of silverware you want to clean. These are usually the ones at the top of your silverware tray that see the most use and acquire stains. Sometimes pieces in the bottom may still look new.

2. Wet a soft cloth with undiluted white vinegar. White vinegar is 4 to 7 percent acetic acid and an effective cleaner for stainless steel.

3. Rub the stainless flatware with the vinegar-soaked cloth, with particular attention to any rainbow spots.

4. Rinse the stainless and dry with a soft cloth.

Sterling or Silver-Plated Silverware

1. Run hot water in a bowl.

2. Add dishwashing liquid to the water.

3. Add sterling or silver-plated flatware. Wash knives first and remove from the water to avoid loosening the solder at the hollow handle.

4. Wipe any stained sterling or silver-plated flatware pieces with silver polish on a soft cloth or make a paste of 1/2 tsp. baking soda and 1 tsp. of water and apply to the silver with a soft cloth.

5. Rinse and dry with a soft cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• Cleaning silver plate often will eventually remove the silver surface.

• Lighter fluid removes rust on stainless steel, but be sure to wash the flatware after cleaning.

• Do not wash sterling and stainless together, especially in the dishwasher. Stainless can damage sterling, causing discoloration as well as dents and dings, since sterling is the softer metal.

• Never use abrasives on stainless steel or silver. You will add dullness and scratches to the finish.

References

• The Vinegar Institute: Uses and Tips
• Safe Natural Tips: Clean Dishes Naturally
• Soapman: Silverware
• Mrs.Clean USA: How to Clean Stainless Steel
• Mrs. Clean USA: How to Clean Silver
• Ohio State University: Extension Service: Recipes for a Healthy Home

Resources

• Case Western Reserve University: Housekeeping 101