I want to share some important lessons I learned about how NOT to care for silverware—specifically silver-plated or sterling silver, not stainless steel flatware.
Recently, I acquired a beautiful set of silver-plated cutlery for just $5!
Now, it was super tarnished and dirty, so I washed and polished it to a fabulous sparkling, shiny silver.
It looked amazing!
But when I went to use it 2 weeks later ~ yep, just 2 weeks ~ I discovered a lot of it was already tarnished!
What THE … ! How could it be!
So I started trying to figure out what I did wrong.
After a lot of research, I knew my mistake, and I wanna share it with you, along with a few common pitfalls many of us make when caring for silverware.
I’m here to help you avoid these mistakes, and learn how to keep your silver looking pristine.
Let’s dive in!
How NOT to Care for Silverware: 4 Common Mistakes
Mistake #1: The Aluminum Foil Method (Is It Too Harsh?)
One of the most common ways to remove tarnish from silverware is the aluminum foil method.
It’s ALL over the internet.
I get it.
It’s quick, easy, and requires things you probably have lying around—aluminum foil, baking soda, and boiling water.
Sounds perfect, right?
Well, not entirely.
This method works wonders for tarnish, but here’s the kicker: it’s also stripping away something precious.
That “something precious” is the patina – that wonderful, factory-applied finish that gives your silverware its unique character.
The aluminum foil method doesn’t discriminate; it takes the tarnish and the patina, leaving you with a piece that’s bright but lacking depth.
AND for silver-plated items, you’re risking the removal of those fine layers of plating. Over time, this can lead to losing that coveted silver shine we all adore.
Since the silver coating is much thinner than sterling, repeated use of this technique may wear down the silver plating, eventually exposing the base metal underneath.
Yikes!
Here’s another tidbit to consider: silver is soft, and aluminum foil can leave tiny scratches. They might be microscopic, but they add up, potentially dulling your once-perfect pieces.
So, while it’s tempting to use this method for quick results, be cautious about overdoing it, especially with silver-plated items.
Mistake #2: Wrapping Silverware in Plastic Wrap
This mistake is something I’ve seen many people do — wrapping silverware in plastic wrap to protect it from the elements.
It sounds logical, but here’s the issue: plastic wrap contains sulfur, which can accelerate tarnishing!
This can leave your beautiful silverware tarnished and dull, even though you thought you were protecting it.
Even worse, if left on too long, that plastic wrap can actually bond with your silver or wreak havoc on the plating.
Trust me, that’s not a look you’re going for.
Mistake #3: Putting Silverware in the Dishwasher
I know, I know—washing by hand can be a pain. But if you want to keep your silverware looking great, do not put it in the dishwasher! Here’s why:
- The harsh detergents and high temperatures in your dishwasher can dull your silverware, or damage the patina, leaving it with a grayish or whitish cast. Not exactly the elegant look we’re aiming for, right?
- If you mix your silver with stainless steel in the dishwasher, you’re asking for trouble. This combo can lead to pitting or black spots that are nearly impossible to remove without professional help.
If you want to avoid costly repairs or refinishing by a professional silversmith, stick to gentle handwashing with a mild detergent.
Mistake #4: Washing Anti-Tarnish Cloths
And now, for the mistake that inspired this whole post – my personal blunder with how to care for silverware.
It involves those anti-tarnish cloth silver holders.
This one was my big “uh-oh” moment.
Picture this: I scored a set of beautiful silver-plated flatware at an estate sale, complete with fancy anti-tarnish holders. Excited, I washed everything – the silverware and the holders – and tucked my sparkling treasures away.
Fast forward two weeks, and to my horror, tarnish had already crept back in!
What went wrong?
Well, I made the mistake of washing the anti-tarnish cloths.
It turns out that washing them removes the very anti-tarnish properties that protect the silver pieces.
My well-intentioned cleaning turned them into regular old flannel wraps that won’t do anything to stop tarnishing, leaving my silverware vulnerable to tarnish.
The Lesson Learned
So, here’s the golden (or should I say silver?) rule: don’t wash your anti-tarnish storage items! A good shake or some time in the sun should do the trick for cleaning.
This will keep the anti-tarnish properties intact and protect your silverware longer.
There you have it, folks – four common silverware care mistakes and how to avoid them.
Remember, treating your silver right isn’t just about keeping it clean; it’s about preserving its character and ensuring it stays beautiful for generations.
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