Silver jewellery is timeless and stylish. Whether it’s a dainty chain or a bold ring, silver adds elegance to any look. But over time, it can tarnish, lose its shine, and look dull. Luckily, with the right techniques, you can restore its beauty at home.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean silver jewellery using simple home remedies and professional cleaning products. If you’re thinking of selling your silver instead, take a look at our silver buyers page to see how we can help.
Why Does Silver Tarnish?
Silver tarnishes when exposed to air, moisture, and sulphur in the environment. This chemical reaction turns it black or brown. Factors like humidity, pollution, and sweat can speed up the process.
Fortunately, cleaning silver jewellery is simple once you know how.
Home Remedies for Cleaning Silver Jewellery
These DIY methods use items you probably already have at home:
1. Baking Soda and Water
- Mix 3 parts baking soda with 1 part water to make a paste.
- Apply using a soft toothbrush.
- Gently scrub and rinse with warm water.
- Dry with a soft cloth.
2. Aluminium Foil and Baking Soda
- Line a bowl with foil, shiny side up.
- Add 1 tbsp baking soda and 1 tsp salt.
- Pour in hot water to cover your jewellery.
- Let it soak for a few minutes.
- Rinse and dry with a soft cloth.
3. White Vinegar and Baking Soda
- Mix ½ cup white vinegar with 2 tbsp baking soda.
- Soak jewellery for 2–3 hours.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Professional Cleaning Options
If your jewellery is heavily tarnished or valuable, consider one of these expert methods:
1. Silver Polish
- Apply polish to a soft cloth.
- Gently rub the tarnished areas.
- Rinse and dry.
2. Silver Dips
- Pour dip solution into a bowl.
- Soak jewellery as directed (usually a few minutes).
- Rinse thoroughly and dry.
3. Ultrasonic Cleaner
- Fill with water and a recommended cleaning solution.
- Place jewellery in the basket and lower into tank.
- Run the machine for a few minutes.
- Rinse and dry with a soft cloth.
Tips to Keep Silver Jewellery Clean
- Be gentle: Use soft cloths or toothbrushes to avoid scratches.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Stay away from bleach or ammonia.
- Dry properly: Always dry your jewellery completely after cleaning.
FAQs
Can I use toothpaste to clean silver jewellery?
Toothpaste can be abrasive and may scratch silver. It’s better to use baking soda or a silver-specific cleaner.
Is baking soda safe for silver jewellery?
Yes, baking soda is a gentle and effective cleaner when used properly.
Can I wear silver in the shower?
It’s best to avoid this. Water, heat, and humidity can cause faster tarnishing.
How often should I clean my silver jewellery?
Clean it every few months or whenever it looks dull. Frequent wearers may clean more often.
Will cleaning remove small scratches?
No. Cleaning removes tarnish but won’t fix scratches. Polishing may help slightly.
Should I store silver jewellery differently after cleaning?
Yes. Store it in a dry, airtight container or anti-tarnish pouch to prevent future tarnish.
Can I use lemon juice to clean silver?
Lemon juice is acidic and may damage silver. It’s safer to use baking soda or commercial polish.
What if my silver jewellery has gemstones?
Avoid soaking it. Instead, use a damp cloth and avoid liquids that could harm the stones.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your silver jewellery clean doesn’t have to be hard. With a few tools and techniques, you can make your pieces look new again. Be gentle, avoid harsh chemicals, and store them properly. Whether you want to wear or sell your silver, maintaining its shine will keep it valuable and beautiful for years to come.
