Cleaning Plated Silver

Discussion in 'Back to Basics' started by Motomom34, Jun 3, 2018.


  1. Motomom34

    Motomom34 Monkey+++

    I have some plated silver. The more I read the more I find conflicting information. One said use vinegar but another said not to because of the acidity. Then one article said use salt but another article said no use plain dish soap, non-acidic. I usually use tooth paste but that is a big sticky mess and it is hard to find regular toothpaste now. I know that club soda will clean real silver beautifully but it does not work on silver plated.

    Anyone have home remedies of getting silver plated items sparkling? I could go buy some of those chemical silver cleaners but I feel like there should be something in my cupboard that will do it.
     
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  2. runswithdogs

    runswithdogs Monkey+++

    Dh used to be an antiques dealer, says use a metal polish like brasso. To easy to muck up the plating if using things not made for silver plate.
     
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  3. HK_User

    HK_User A Productive Monkey is a Happy Monkey

    Last edited: Jun 3, 2018
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  4. Dunerunner

    Dunerunner Brewery Monkey Moderator

    I have always used a chemical cleaner like Tarn-X but I have recently read that it is very destructive. I wouldn't use anything abrasive, though.
     
    Last edited: Jun 3, 2018
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  5. snake6264

    snake6264 Combat flip flop douchebag

    Might try Worstecher and see if that works
     
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  6. techsar

    techsar Monkey+++

    @HK_User are you thinking of NevrDull?

    if it is tarnished real bad, I use salt and lemon juice (on food service items). Well, until we got rid of the plated stuff.
     
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  7. Gray Wolf

    Gray Wolf Monkey+++

    There is a technique that uses boiling water, aluminum foil, and baking soda. Not abrasive, and not destructive.
     
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  8. Ura-Ki

    Ura-Ki Grampa Monkey

    Flitz or Hollywood shine have always worked well for us. There is also a comercial polish markted by Snap-On tools that's awesome, it resembles cotton candy ( comes in little mental tin that resembles the old bandaid tins) and is a natural sheep's wool blend polish and will protect the shine for a few months! Best is to polish lightly and then run it with a flannel or "Tac-cloth" to the final shine!
    Lastly, Carnubia car polish/was is a great long term treatment polish that lasts! Works well on Jewelery too!
     
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  9. ghrit

    ghrit Bad company Administrator Founding Member

    Probably ought not use that in your punch bowl or on your flatware ----
     
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  10. Ura-Ki

    Ura-Ki Grampa Monkey

    GOOD CALL ghrit, Check the ingredients for any cleaner/polish. Those that use a nut or palm based oil/wax are technically the only food safe ones!
     
  11. Motomom34

    Motomom34 Monkey+++

    The stuff you put in meatloaf?

    @Gray Wolf have you ever tried this method? I think this is the baking soda one you are talking about
    • 1 sheet aluminum foil, to fit in sink
    • 1 tablespoon baking soda
    • 1 tablespoon salt
    • 2 cups very hot water
    Directions
    1. Combine the above ingredients in a clean kitchen sink.
    2. Put your tarnished silver and silver plated items into the sink and let sit for a few minutes.
    3. Watch as the tarnish disappears from the silverware and reappears on the foil.
    4. Rinse extremely well with water to prevent pitting of silverplate.
    5. Magic!
     
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  12. Ura-Ki

    Ura-Ki Grampa Monkey

    :D
     
  13. HK_User

    HK_User A Productive Monkey is a Happy Monkey

  14. HK_User

    HK_User A Productive Monkey is a Happy Monkey

    Electrolysis
     
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  15. Gator 45/70

    Gator 45/70 Monkey+++

    Cheap vodka soaked overnite
     
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  16. arleigh

    arleigh Goophy monkey

    baking soda.
     
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