Tips for Maintaining and Cleaning Your Silverware
Silverware, whether it's everyday kitchenware or special occasion pieces, requires proper care to ensure it retains its luster and beauty over time. Here are some valuable tips to help you maintain and clean your silverware effectively.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Method
When it comes to cleaning your silverware, the method you choose can significantly impact how well it maintains its shine and appearance. For everyday use, you have a few options:
Use the Dishwasher: For everyday pieces, simply placing your silverware in the dishwasher is a convenient option. However, it's important to ensure that no other items are being cleaned with it at the same time. Some dishwashers may not be as gentle, which can cause scuffs and damage to your silverware.
Hand Wash with Dawn Dish Soap: If you prefer washing by hand, using Dawn dish soap is a good choice due to its degreasing properties. While effective, it's still gentler on your silver than harsh chemicals.
Cleaning Special Occasion Silver
Your special occasion pieces, on the other hand, need a bit more TLC. Here’s how to clean and maintain them properly:
Baking Soda and Lemon Juice: For these valuable pieces, a homemade solution of baking soda and lemon juice is highly effective. These natural cleaning agents work wonders without harming the silver. Simply place the pieces in a bowl, cover them with the solution, and let them sit for a few minutes before rinsing and drying.
Soft Cloth: After cleaning, use a soft cotton towel to dry the pieces. This helps prevent water marks and moisture damage.
Proper Cleaning Practices
To ensure your silverware stays in top condition, follow these practices:
Wash Immediately: Whenever possible, wash your silverware shortly after use. Leaving it overnight, especially after contact with acidic foods like eggs or salty foods, can tarnish the silver.
Hand Washing is Best: While dishwashers can be convenient, hand washing is often the best method for maintaining silverware. It allows for more control over the cleaning process and prevents damage from harsh settings.
Ordinary Dish Soap: When hand washing, using ordinary dish washing liquid is recommended. Avoid using excessive or harsh soaps, as they can dull the silver's shine.
Look for EPNS Plating: When purchasing new silverware, look for pieces with an EPNS (Electro Plated Nickel Silver) coating. This plating standard provides a 25-year guarantee and may last up to 50 years, ensuring a longer lasting silverware piece.
Understanding Plating Standards
Plated silverware is a common choice, and understanding the plating standards can help you make an informed purchase. Plating is important because:
Inexpensive metallic coatings with very thin plating can develop small pinholes, leading to a form of corrosion called galvanic corrosion.
Very thin precious metal coatings are more prone to galvanic corrosion compared to base metals. The EPNS coating standard is designed to address this issue and ensure a longer-lasting surface.
When buying new plated silverware, prioritize pieces with a sufficiently thick plating to ensure they last for years. Standards like EPNS not only guarantee durability but also offer peace of mind knowing your investment will hold up over time.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can ensure your silverware remains shiny, undamaged, and retains its value for years to come. Whether you're cleaning everyday pieces or special occasion items, proper handling and maintenance will keep your silverware looking its best.
Further Reading
For more information on silverware care and maintenance, consider checking out guides on:
Tips for Cleaning Silver Tea Sets
Hints for Preserving Antiqued Silver Plates
Strategies for Cleaning and Storing Silver Jewelry Boxes