How to Clean Sterling Silver at Home

1. Soap and Water (For Light Tarnish)

Sometimes, all your silver needs is a little bath!

You'll Need:

  • Mild dish soap

  • Warm water

  • Soft cloth

Steps:

  1. Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water.

  2. Soak your silver jewelry for a few minutes.

  3. Gently rub with a soft cloth or your fingers.

  4. Rinse and dry thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth.

2. Baking Soda and Water Paste (For Heavier Tarnish)

Baking soda is a natural cleaner that’s perfect for stubborn tarnish.

You'll Need:

  • Baking soda

  • Water

  • Soft-bristle toothbrush or cloth

Steps:

  1. Make a paste with 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water.

  2. Gently rub the paste onto the silver using a soft cloth or brush.

  3. Rinse thoroughly under lukewarm water.

  4. Dry completely with a soft towel.

Tip: Avoid using baking soda on jewelry with delicate gemstones or pearls.

3. Aluminum Foil and Baking Soda Bath (For Deep Cleaning)

This method uses a little science to lift tarnish off your silver.

You'll Need:

  • Aluminum foil

  • Baking soda

  • Boiling water

  • Bowl

Steps:

  1. Line a bowl with aluminum foil, shiny side up.

  2. Place your silver jewelry in the bowl.

  3. Sprinkle baking soda generously over the jewelry.

  4. Carefully pour boiling water over it until it’s submerged.

  5. Let it sit for a few minutes. You'll see the tarnish transfer onto the foil!

  6. Rinse and dry thoroughly.