Taking care of silver involves protecting it from tarnish and keeping it clean. Here's a comprehensive guide:
Prevention is Key: Minimize Tarnishing
Tarnishing is a natural process that occurs when silver reacts with sulfur compounds in the air and environment. While it's impossible to prevent tarnishing entirely, you can significantly slow it down by following these steps:
- Keep it dry: Moisture accelerates tarnishing. Dry your silver thoroughly after cleaning or exposure to water.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Keep your silver away from chlorine, bleach, hairspray, and other harsh chemicals that can damage its surface. Remove silver jewelry before swimming or using cleaning products.
- Take it off when exercising: Sweat can also contribute to tarnishing.
- Handle with clean hands: Oils and dirt from your hands can transfer to the silver and contribute to tarnish.
Proper Storage: Shielding from the Elements
How you store your silver is crucial for preventing tarnish:
- Individual Storage: Store each piece of silver separately in soft, acid-free cloth bags or pouches to prevent scratching.
- Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers or ziplock bags to limit exposure to air.
- Tarnish-Preventative Strips: Place anti-tarnish strips or cloths inside the storage containers. These strips absorb sulfur compounds and help keep the silver clean. You can find these strips at most jewelry or craft stores.
- Location Matters: Store silver in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity.
Cleaning and Polishing: Restoring the Shine
When tarnish does occur, regular cleaning is necessary:
- Gentle Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe away any surface dirt or fingerprints.
- Silver Polish: Use a high-quality silver polish specifically designed for cleaning silver. Follow the instructions on the polish carefully.
- Polishing Cloth: Apply the silver polish to a soft polishing cloth and gently rub the silver in a circular motion.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After polishing, rinse the silver thoroughly with warm water to remove any polish residue.
- Dry Completely: Dry the silver immediately and completely with a clean, soft cloth.
- Professional Cleaning: For heavily tarnished or intricate silver items, consider professional cleaning to avoid damage.
Do's and Don'ts for Silver Care:
| Action | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Do | Use soft cloths for cleaning and polishing. |
| Do | Store silver in airtight containers with anti-tarnish strips. |
| Do | Regularly wipe down your silver to prevent tarnish buildup. |
| Don't | Use abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes, as they can scratch the surface. |
| Don't | Expose silver to harsh chemicals like chlorine or bleach. |
| Don't | Store silver in damp or humid environments. |
| Don't | Over-polish, as it can wear away the silver plating over time. |
By following these guidelines, you can keep your silver looking beautiful for years to come.
