Polishing silver
Bringing Back the Shine: A Guide to Polishing Household Silver

Tarnished silver can lose its lustre and become dull over time. But fear not! There are several effective methods to restore its brilliance and bring back its gleaming beauty. This guide explores techniques, from natural DIY solutions to commercial polishes, to help you choose the best approach for your household silver.

 Natural Polishes

Baking Soda: This is a classic and gentle method. Create a paste with baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the silver, leave it on for a few minutes, depending on the tarnish level, and buff it off with a soft cloth. Alternatively, line a pan with aluminum foil, add baking soda and hot water, and soak your silver. The aluminum reacts with the tarnish, lifting it from the silver.

Lemon Juice and Salt: This combination creates a mild acidic solution that can tackle tarnish. Make a paste with lemon juice and salt, apply it to the silver, and buff it off with a soft cloth. Be aware that this method can be slightly more abrasive than baking soda, so test it on a small, inconspicuous area first.

Cornstarch Paste: Mix cornstarch with water to form a thick paste. Apply the paste to the silver, dry it completely, and buff it off with a damp cloth. This method is good for light tarnish.

Commercial Polishes

Silver Polishes: These readily available creams or liquids are formulated specifically for silver cleaning. They are generally more effective than natural methods for removing heavy tarnish. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully; some require rinsing, while others may include a tarnishing preventative.

Silver Dips: These dips offer a quick and easy solution for lightly tarnished silver. Immerse your silver pieces in the dip for the recommended time, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a soft cloth. However, dips can be harsh on heavily tarnished silver and may damage intricate details.

General Tips

• Always wash your silver with warm, soapy water and dry it thoroughly before polishing. This removes any dirt or debris that could scratch the surface during polishing.
• Use soft cloths, like microfiber cloths, to avoid scratching the silver.
• For heavily tarnished or ornately designed pieces, consult a professional jeweller to ensure proper cleaning and avoid damaging delicate details.
• After polishing, store your silver in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to minimize tarnishing. Consider using anti-tarnish strips or tarnish-resistant storage bags for extended protection.

By following these tips and choosing the most suitable method for your silver's condition, you can restore its shine and keep it looking beautiful for years.