Tips

Caring for Your Silver

Washing your silver

   Wash your silver ware immediately after each use. this helps to avoid  staining and tarnishing that some foods accelerate. Hand-washing your silverware is recommended. Use a mild dishwashing liquid. Avoid lemon-scented detergents, those containing chlorides. Dry your silverware completely with a soft cloth. Always wash your silver and stainless separately, and only store after it has cooled. Cleaning in a dishwasher is not recommended for either sterling flatware or silverplate.

Storing your Silver

  If you use your silverware regularly, store it in a clean drawer free from moisture. If you store your silver for long periods of time, place it in either a flannel flatware rolls or a wooden storage chest with protective lining. Special protective material can be purchased at better fabric stores. Never warp your silver in any type of plastic, rubber bands or newspaper. These contain high amounts of sulfur which accelerate tarnishing.

Polishing your Silver

  If you use your silverware regularly, you will not have to polish it as often. When polishing is necessary use a very soft cloth to polish. Avoid all-purpose cleaners and dip cleaners. Avoid excess rubbing, and be sure to rub lengthwise, never in a circular motion or crosswise. Try to keep polish away from gold accents.  Like most precious metals, silver will scratch and chafe as it is used. This is normal.

Avoiding Tarnish

  The best way to slow tarnishing is to use your silver. Tarnish is caused by certain foods that contain sulfides, such as: Eggs, fruit juices, tomatoes, vinegar, ketchup, salt, salty foods (butter), mustard, salad dressing and tomato sauces. If this foods remain on your silver for a length of time, they will cause your silver to tarnish and in many cases cause pits. Salt should be emptied from the article immediately after use and rinsed to avoid spotting. Rubber bands are very harmful to silver. They can leave marks on sterling silver that are very difficult to remove and may even remove the silver from plated items.