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Caring for Silverware

Sterling Silver Flatware

Sterling silver is meant to be treasured.

Rule #1 is use it! Regular use is an integral part of caring for your silverware. Your fine silverware cannot be appreciated or enjoyed if it’s out of sight and wrapped up in cloth somewhere. Show it off to family and friends, and don’t just hide them away for holidays and special occasions. Therefore you need to own a proper Silverware Chest (or Flatware Chest). Such a handsome box will not only look great and complement your existing decor, but keep your silverware protected, organized, and handy so  you’re tempted to use it more often.

Silver flatware is an heirloom. Something to enjoy and savor in the present, then pass to the next generation. Caring for it is easy if you follow a few simple steps.

  1. Wash your silver as soon as is practical after using it, and only by hand (never in dishwasher). Never leave your silver soaking, as this can cause permanent damage. Use a mild detergent for washing along with hot water. Dry by hand with a soft cloth. Avoid air or drain drying your silver, if possible, and use a cloth immediately.
  2. As touched on previously, dishwashers and sterling silver do not mix. Some will tell you not to worry. However, over time, the dishwasher will slowly cause deterioration in the soft patina and damage the surface of your silver, eventually causing a permanently dull and mottled appearance. Another popular misconception is using baking soda and water. This too will result in deterioration similar to machine washing.
  3. Polish your silverware 1 to 2 times per year, whether you use it regularly or not. The more you use it, the less you need to polish it. Note: some foods can tarnish silver (e.g. eggs), but washing your silver thoroughly after use will be helpful. Use silver polish only, as opposed to multi-purpose metal polish. Apply polish to each piece with a soft cloth, rub until the dark spots are gone, then rinse with hot water. Dry each piece carefully before you store them.
  4. Store your dry flatware in a clean, dry place. Humidity can cause tarnishing. Also, never wrap in rubber bands, plastic, newspaper, or any high sulphur material. A Silverware Box is highly recommended, as the silvercloth lining or tarnish-resistant soft velvet, among other advantages, will provide the proper environment and reduce moisture.

 

Silver-Plated Flatware

  1. Use a mild dishwashing detergent and sponge. Like sterling silver, never use the dishwasher to clean silver-plated silverware. This is certain doom for your forks, knives, spoons, and serving pieces.
  2. Tarnishing can be removed from silver-plated silverware by dabbing salt on each piece and rubbing with a clean, soft rag dipped in white vinegar. Rinse in hot water and dry by hand with soft cloth thoroughly.
  3. Store your dry flatware in a clean, dry place. Humidity can cause tarnishing. Also, never wrap in rubber bands, plastic, newspaper, or any high sulphur material. A Silverware Box is highly recommended, as the silvercloth lining or tarnish-resistant soft velvet, among other advantages, will provide the proper environment and reduce moisture.