Wherever they are shown, silver dinnerware and decorative pieces add touches of elegance and beauty.It can be difficult topolish silver after it tarnishes.Fortunately, there are ways to slow the process of tarnishing, which will make your silver stay shiny.Proper storage techniques will keep your silver shiny.
Step 1: It's a good idea to keep your silver away from high heat and humidity.
The speed at which silver tarnishes is increased by humidity and heat.To keep your silverware and silver jewelry shiny and polished, put them into storage in parts of your house that meet these requirements.China cabinets are perfect for storing fine dinnerware because they regulate the flow of air to keep a consistent temperature.
Step 2: Extra defense against tarnishing is stored in protective bags.
If you want to keep silver out of sight when not in use, place it in a specialty container.flannel or an anti-tarnish cloth is the best material for this purpose, as these are specially treated to keep the chemicals that cause silver to tarnish from becoming activated.If you are placing multiple items in the same bag, make sure you don't overstuff them.This could lead to serious damage, so you don't want your silver bumping into other pieces.
Step 3: Silver should not be wrapped or stored with materials that can cause tarnishing.
Many common household items can be harmful to silver polishes because they contain chemicals or create environments that lead to tarnishing.This includes wrapping papers.The silver can be damaged by the acidic ink that coats them.Plastic bags can cause tarnishing and trap in water, which is not good.cardboard boxes are not recommended for storage, even if they are just temporary, because they hold in water and don't allow for proper cooling.Don't use rubber bands to hold your silverware.They contain sulfur, which causes tarnishing.
Step 4: It's a good idea to take the silver out of storage and use it.
It is a great way to show off your silver and prevent tarnish from forming.Is using it?Most people will wash their silver after using it.To make sure that all of your silver items are used equally, it's a good idea to rotate which plates and silverware you use.The less used ones will tarnish.
Step 5: The silver needs to be cleaned with warm soapy water.
It's a good idea to do this after you've finished using it, as the oils on your skin or food can react with the silver and damage it.You should wash your hands before handling silver.You could also wear cotton gloves.Don't put silver in the dishwasher.It can leave marks if you put silver in a dishwasher.Always wash your hands.
Step 6: If you want to get an extra polish, soak the silver in a hot baking soda bath.
The water should be brought to a boil.Put a layer of aluminum foil on top of the tray and fill it with a 2 cup (120 mL) of white vinegar, a small amount of baking soda, and a little bit of salt.Put the water into the tray.Leave your silver in this mixture for 30 seconds before taking it out.
Step 7: Put a flannel or cotton cloth over the silver to dry it off.
The silver should be rubbed in small circles with a soft flannel or cotton towel.Drop of water can cause spotting, so don't let the silver air dry.Special anti-tarnish cloths that are treated with chemicals that prevent tarnishing and polish are available.This may be a good investment if you want silver that gleams.