Is your precious silverware looking a bit dull? Fear not! Whether it’s jewellery, family heirlooms, or your favourite cutlery, silver is as delicate as it is dazzling. But don’t worry, we all know that silver tends to tarnish over time. So, how do you clean silver to make it gleam again? And which natural products can help keep our silver items in tip-top shape? We’ve got all the answers right here!
Cleaning Silverware Without Scrubbing: The Easiest Trick Ever!
No need for endless scrubbing to restore your tarnished silverware’s sparkle. There’s a simple old-fashioned trick that requires just aluminium foil and water.
How to Clean Silver Without Scrubbing:
- Line the bottom of a baking dish or a large bowl with aluminium foil.
- Pour in boiling water and add two tablespoons of salt or baking soda.
- Submerge the silverware and let it sit for a while.
- Allow it to cool, then rinse and dry the silverware.
The tarnish will transfer to the aluminium foil. Granted, the smell might not be pleasant, but your silver will look brand new!
Natural Products to Clean Tarnished Silver
You don’t need a cabinet full of chemicals to clean your silver. Some simple ingredients from your kitchen cupboard will do the trick!
Lemon Juice or Baking Soda:
Cleaning silverware can be as easy as using two ingredients: baking soda (food grade or not) or lemon juice. All you need is an old toothbrush and a cloth.
Steps:
- Dip the toothbrush in lemon juice or baking soda.
- Scrub your silverware thoroughly.
- Rinse and wipe with a cloth.
These eco-friendly and cost-effective ingredients will make your silverware shine like it’s brand new. If scrubbing with baking soda isn’t enough, you can also soak the silver in warm water with a pinch of baking soda, then brush and rinse.
White Vinegar:
Another household staple, white vinegar, works wonders on silver.
Steps:
- Fill a large container, like a basin, with white vinegar.
- Soak your silverware for at least 12 hours.
- Rinse and dry each piece.
No scrubbing required! For stubborn stains, warm vinegar (not boiling) is more effective. Did you know? This trick also works with beer due to its antioxidant properties.
Toothpaste or Ash:
Toothpaste and fireplace ash may seem worlds apart, but both have abrasive properties perfect for cleaning silver.
Steps:
- Choose a white paste toothpaste.
- Apply the paste on a brush or cloth and gently scrub the silver.
- Let it sit for a few minutes.
- Rinse under running water and ensure no residue remains.
- Buff with a soft cloth.
For a quirky twist, you can even use ash from your fireplace. Sprinkle it on the silver and gently rub.
Potato Cooking Water :
Here’s an economic and simple tip: save your potato cooking water.
Steps:
- Pour the (warm or cold) potato cooking water into a basin.
- Submerge your silver cutlery and other items, letting them soak overnight.
- The next day, rinse and dry the silver.
Top tip: Use a traditional chamois leather for a final polish to make your silver shine.
Cleaning silverware doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these natural methods and a bit of patience, your silver will shine bright in no time. Need a hand with household chores? Our domestic cleaners are here to help, ensuring your home and silverware sparkle effortlessly.
