Polishing silver – can it really be so easy?!
If you’re like me, you have a little problem with polishing your fine silver with harsh chemicals that burn your nose. Something doesn’t seem right about slathering on something I have to wear gloves to handle, and then eating with it.
But there is a better way! I can’t take credit for this one. It comes from Clean & Green by Berthold-Bond – a great book if you’re looking to clean your home with non-toxics and general household products.
Cleaning your silver has never been easier. Fill a pan or pot with enough water to cover the silver you’re polishing. Put the silver in with a tablespoon each of salt and baking soda. Then – here’s the kicker – submerse a couple sheets of aluminum foil, and wait an hour. That’s right – go do your nails, take a hot bath, or if you’re the industrious type go churn some home made butter. While you wait, the tarnish will magically be pulled off the silver and land itself securely on the aluminum foil. At that point, rinse your silver with hot water and polish dry with a cloth.
If what you’re polishing isn’t submersible, make a paste of baking soda and water. Use a damp sponge and polish away. Rinse with hot water and dry with a gentle cloth. Cheap white toothpaste will take off any stubborn spots – but don’t use the kind that turns into a gel or has fancy additives (stripes, mint crystals, etc.).
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Comments
Heh heh. Churn some homemade butter. You’re killing me.
Thanks for the research and such a quick reply!
Back years ago, I learned that you can just use “Cream of Tartar” and lemon juice, both of which can be found quite easily.
Apparently, this works for aluminum. (The cream of tartar & lemon juice.) Oops.
However…
http://www.safenaturaltips.com/cleaning/dishespotsflatware.html
“Clean silver of tarnish with baking soda and salt. Put aluminum foil in the bottom of a large enough pan and add 2 or 3 inches of water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Stir. Bring the mixture to a boil. Add silver and boil for 2 to 3 minutes. Don’t use this method for pieces that you want to look antique, as it will also clean in crevices. Rinse and dry.
Polish silver with baking soda. Add enough water to baking soda to make a paste. Polish with a soft cloth.”
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