Silverware

Who doesn't like silver? Family dinners and other important events in the family wouldn't be complete without silverware on the table. Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner are just two of the important events that silverware is required to be on the table. But what if your silverware has already tarnished through time?

Sure, you can still use the silver. Your relatives probably won't say a thing. But you know full well how unsightly tarnished silver looks like. So why not polish it yourself? Why spend cash when you can remedy the problem yourself?

Do it yourself projects extend well beyond the borders of direct home improvement. Little things do matter, which is why in the following paragraphs, you will be taught how to make those silverwares shine once again. Take note that you can do the same for other types of silver-based articles, like jewelry for instance.

How to prevent tarnish

1. This might comes as a bit of a surprise, but cleaning your silverware often, even by just using a clean rug every week, prevents tarnish. The reason for this is that you clean the surface of the silver of dirt and acids that are building up from contact with air. Do this often enough and the tarnishing would be greatly reduced indeed.

2. Storage is a big factor in preserving the luster of silver. If you can, devote a small, well-sealed cabinet for your silverware. The cabinet should be tight enough when closed to prevent mildew, spores and other airborne "silver killers" from reaching the surface of your silverware. Also, the storage space should always be kept as dry as possible, away from leaks and other forms of moisture.

3. Clean, dry cloths are best when handling silverware. Rubber gloves are a big no-no and should never be used for handling such articles. Also, if you use your silver articles often enough tarnishing would never be a problem.

4. Believe it or not, even the small amounts of oil on our hands can lead to the tarnishing of silver. So if you can, use gloves made of cloth to reduce the incidence of tarnishing.

Tarnish removal

1. The first step in removing the tarnish is by submerging the silverware in a hot mixture of water and non-corrosive, organic soap. Even bath soap can be used if you wish. This is done to remove any existing surface particulates.

2. To dry the articles, simply use a dry piece of cloth, or if you wish, a dry, old towel would also work just as well.

3. A polishing mitt would work wonders for your silverware. Simply choose a comfortable fitting one and polish away. Use light, rounded strokes and press down gently on the surface to remove the tarnishing. Work on the surfaces of the silverware until the light reflects beautifully on the silver's surface once again.

4. Commercial tarnish removers may also be used if the tarnish cannot be dealt with by simply polishing with mitts. Use generous amounts of these chemicals and polish also afterward.

5. Commercial solutions may also be used to polish other silver articles.