Polishing Silver
If you're planning to use the family's special silver this Easter, polish it now - it’s always so rewarding to complete time-consuming chores before it gets too hectic.
This week my housekeepers took on the task of cleaning and polishing my drawers of silver flatware. There are a few ways to clean silver. One nontoxic method is to fill an aluminum pan with hot water, salt and baking soda, stir until it is all dissolved, and then soak the pieces until a chemical reaction occurs that removes the tarnish. This technique is faster than hand cleaning but may cause pitting and remove the more desirable tarnish called patina. Silver cleaning cloths made especially for removing tarnish from precious metals are also available. Many experts recommend using a good-quality, non-abrasive commercial silver polish. I have been using Wright’s Silver Cream for years.
Here are some photos, enjoy.
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- In my Winter House servery, I have several shallow drawers specifically designated for storing silver spoons, forks, and knives. Periodically through the year, we schedule times to polish a section of silver. These pieces are very lightly tarnished – some pieces don’t even look tarnished at all, but it is always a good idea to clean silver regularly, so it doesn’t develop a thick coat of tarnish that is harder to remove.
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- When it is time to clean, batches of flatware are removed from the drawer and brought over to the sink. With so many to do, it is wise to use a production line process to get them done quickly and efficiently.
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- Here on the left is a polished fork, and on the right is one that still needs polishing. It is hard to see, but there is a slight discoloration. Tarnish is caused when the chemical element of silver reacts with hydrogen sulfide, which occurs naturally in the air. This produces silver sulphate on the surface of the silver and shows up as the common black-brown tint.
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- Wright’s Silver Cream is a gentle all-purpose polish that works on all types of silver. It also works nicely on stainless steel and chrome and comes in a big tub.
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- When we polish anything, a terry cloth towel is placed on the bottom of the sink, so the metal doesn’t bang against any surfaces. I also do this whenever washing delicate china pieces – just in case something slips through the hands.
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- Carlos uses a soft moistened sponge to apply the cleaner. A soft cloth can also work well.
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- Carlos coats the pieces completely with the silver cream. The silver will start to brighten as it is rubbed. Always use silver polishes that are non-abrasive, and opt for formulas, such as creams and gels instead of sprays. It’s also a good idea to use gloves when taking on this task, so the cleaning cream does not come into contact with the skin.
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- Next, Carlos rinses them clean and uses another sponge to ensure all the cleaning cream is removed.
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- After cleaning with the silver cream, Carlos washes the spoons with water and dish soap. And never place any silver in the dishwasher. The detergents’ aggressive chemicals, combined with the washer’s high cleaning temperature, will eventually turn the silver to gray or white, with a dull, non-reflective surface.
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- The pieces are passed to Enma who dries each piece thoroughly right away with a soft towel to avoid any water-marks. Do not let your silver air dry, because water left standing can cause spotting.
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- The finished pieces are placed on another towel, so they can be sorted before being put away.
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- This can be the most time-consuming part of the process – matching up all the spoons and forks.
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- Enma looks at each piece carefully. Some are easy to group together because of their interesting handles and stems.
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- And look – these spoons are engraved with “Martha” and “Stewart.”
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- A clean piece of shelf liner is on the bottom of every drawer. These shelf liners are available at any kitchen supply store. I like to use non-adhesive grip liners. They stay firmly in place and provide a bit of cushioning for the silver.
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- Here’s Enma placing them all into the drawer, lining them up with other like pieces.
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- Like spoons are stacked with the stems slightly spread, so they can be counted without being touched.
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- Some handles have very unique shapes. When buying, look for similarly shaped pieces in case you need them for larger parties.
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- Try to make time to use precious silver when entertaining – regular use is the best way to prevent tarnish from forming. If you have a large collection, try to rotate the pieces, so everything gets some use during the course of the year.
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- These spoons are organized by size and style – notice how similar they are, but no two are exactly the same. Another tip for storing silver – keep it away from high humidity and high heat.
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- I have thousands of silver spoons, forks, and knives – many purchased from antiques fairs and shops over the years. I love using them whenever I entertain, so polishing three or four times a year is generally sufficient to keep everything in good condition.
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- The joy of owning beautiful silver flatware does require some work to keep it looking beautiful, but it is all well worth the effort. Have a wonderful and safe Easter weekend!
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