Protect your silverware from tarnish using these simple remedies
We are all very fond of our precious silverware, but unfortunately our cutlery (and other silver items) can tarnish (oxidize) very easily if not used often or is stored incorrectly.
Cutlery, in particular, can tarnish easily, ruining our plans to make a good impression with guests. The main reason for this tarnish appearing is due to the characteristics of silver: this metal reacts with the oxygen present in the environment and with the acids in the foods. So what can be done about this inconvenience?
The proper storage of our silverware is the first fundamental step to prevent it from tarnishing. Below, we suggest some easy ways to prevent silverware from tarnishing:
Prevent tarnishing of the silverware inside a drawer
The proper maintenance of your silver cutlery depends primarily on its correct storage: since contact with oxygen and acids is the main cause of tarnishing, it is best to prevent excessive exposure to the air, if possible. To this end, always store your cutlery in a closed drawer, covering the pieces with a clean, resistant flannel cloth.
If you rarely use your cutlery, wrap them individually in tissue paper, cloth or muslin, then placing them in airtight plastic bags.
Another way to prevent oxidation, however, is to add a piece of chalk to your drawer: this material will absorb the humidity present in the drawer, slowing down the tarnishing process.
Cleaning tarnished silver: natural remedies
If your cutlery is already tarnished, you can easily clean it using natural remedies:
- sodium bicarbonate: the first remedy we suggest is a great classic of natural cleaning; dissolve 50 grams of bicarbonate in a liter of boiling water and immerse your cutlery in this mix until the tarnish is completely removed, then rinse and dry;
- toothpaste: always present in your bathrooms and a precious ally for your oral hygiene, toothpaste is also perfect for cleaning silver. Just rub it on the surface to be cleaned using a cloth, then rinse off thoroughly;
- aluminum foil: aluminum is able to remove surface tarnishing; cover a container with foil and fill it with boiling water with 2 tablespoons of salt and 2 tablespoons of bicarbonate, soak your cutlery for an hour, then dry off with a soft cloth.
Now your cutlery will always be perfectly clean and free from tarnish.
