How to Shine My Silver Chain at Home

Help your chain sparkle like new using everyday products.

Tarnish on silver results from contact with hydrogen sulfide in the air. Other factors that increase the accumulation of tarnish include humidity, wool and the natural oil and salt of your skin. Polish your silver chain early and often, as tarnish becomes increasingly difficult to remove with age.

Things You'll Need

• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 2 tsp. salt
• Aluminum foil
• Cooking pot
• Whisk
• 1 quart boiling water
• Tongs

Instructions

1. Line the inside of a cooking pot with tin foil. Pour a single quart of boiling water into the pot on top of the tin foil. The foil-lined pot should not be on the stove when you add the water.

2. Add 2 tsp. salt and 1/4 cup baking soda into the foil-lined pot. Mix the baking and salt with a large whisk until both items dissolve completely into the hot water.

3. Lower your silver chain into the foil-lined pot using tongs. Cover the pot with a lid for approximately five minutes before removing the chain. Dry your silver chain with a soft cloth towel.

Tips & Warnings

• Prevent tarnish buildup on your silver chain by washing it each week with a mild, unscented soap.

• Do not rub your silver against anything rough while drying or cleaning, as this could cause irreversible scratching.

References

• Real Simple: Baking Soda as Silver Polish
• American Society of Silversmithing: Silver Care