How to Care for Sterling Silver Jewelry
With proper care, sterling silver jewelry will maintain its beautiful shine for decades. Tarnish is natural and easily managed. Here are expert tips for keeping your silver looking its best.
Daily Wear Tips
- Put jewelry on last: Apply perfume, lotion, hairspray, and sunscreen before putting on silver jewelry. These chemicals accelerate tarnish.
- Remove before swimming: Chlorine in pools and salt in ocean water can damage silver. Always remove silver jewelry before swimming.
- Remove before cleaning: Household cleaners, bleach, and ammonia can tarnish or pit silver.
- Wipe after wearing: A quick wipe with a soft, dry cloth after each wear removes oils and moisture that contribute to tarnish.
How to Clean Tarnished Silver
Method 1: Silver polishing cloth — The easiest method. Pre-treated polishing cloths are inexpensive and effective for light to moderate tarnish. Simply rub the cloth over the silver in long, straight strokes (not circular).
Method 2: Warm soapy water — Mix mild dish soap with warm water. Soak silver for a few minutes, then gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush (a baby toothbrush works well). Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
Method 3: Baking soda paste — For heavier tarnish, make a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Apply with a soft cloth, rub gently, rinse, and dry. Do not use on oxidized (intentionally darkened) silver pieces.
Storage Tips
- Store silver in anti-tarnish bags or cloth-lined jewelry boxes
- Keep pieces separated to prevent scratching (silver is soft)
- Add anti-tarnish strips or silica gel packets to your jewelry box to absorb moisture
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Do not store silver in plastic bags (some plastics contain sulfur compounds)
What to Avoid
- Never use ultrasonic cleaners on silver with gemstones unless the gems can handle it
- Avoid abrasive cleaners, toothpaste (too abrasive), or steel wool
- Do not use rubber bands to hold silver pieces (rubber contains sulfur)
- Avoid prolonged contact with leather, wool, and felt (these can cause tarnish)