Don’t
be Afraid to Use Your Good Silver
(ARA)
- Do you think twice before bringing out the good silver at the
holidays, trying to decide if you have time to clean it before your
party, in light of all your other holiday errands and commitments?
Polishing silver is actually a simple process, and with the proper care
and the right cleaning supplies, there’s no reason to keep your good
silver under wraps. In fact, by following these simple tips, you may
find that you’re more inclined to use your silver -- even if there is no
special occasion.
Silver Basics
Silver is a relatively soft metal and can
be dented or damaged by rough handling. In addition, it is subject to
corrosion, known as tarnish, when it is exposed to sulphur-containing
compounds in the air. Corrosion causes silver to turn dark and lose its
lustrous surface sheen. Heat and humidity also promote tarnish, so take
this into consideration when deciding where to store your silver. While
it is important to keep silver clean and free from dust and surface
grime, it’s better to polish only when necessary, just before using it.
Cleaning Your Silver Safely
There are many types of silver polishing
products on the market. The key to making the job of caring for your
silver easier is to choose a product best suited to the job. Here are
some tips from the experts at Northern Labs, maker of Goddard’s silver
care products.
For cleaning items such as serving trays,
pitchers and bowls that do not have engraving or fine details, silver
polish liquid is fast and easy. Choose one that cleans, polishes and
protects in one step, like Goddard’s Silver Polish, to save time and
effort. Apply the polish with a clean, soft cloth, rubbing gently until
all of the tarnish is gone, turning the cloth frequently. Allow the
polish to dry, then wipe it with another clean, soft cloth to buff it to
a brilliant shine.
Silver polish foam is perfect for larger
objects and those with engraving and fine details or filigree. “These
items would normally take longer and require using a toothbrush or other
brushes to get the tarnish out,” says Mark Sterwald of Northern Labs.
“Goddard’s Silver Foam does all of the work for you -- simply moisten a
soft sponge with warm water, dip it in the paste and softly rub the
sponge over the surface, creating a rich, cleansing lather. That’s the
secret to getting all of the tarnish out of the nooks, crannies and
engraving.” Rinse the item under warm running water and then dry
immediately with a clean, soft cloth.
For silverware and serving utensils,
silver dip is the way to go. Simply open the jar and carefully dip the
item into the jar until the tarnish disappears. If the item doesn’t fit
into the jar, use a cotton ball soaked in silver dip and rub until all
the tarnish is removed. Wash the cleaned items in warm, soapy water,
rinse well and dry with a soft cloth.
If you prefer a multi-use product, choose
an all-metal polish like Mr. Metal that works on silver, brass, copper
and more. Use it on copper cookware, brass candle sticks, silver, and
other decorative items in your home.
After the Party
To ensure your silver will look good the
next time you use it, start by hand-washing the pieces, as harsh
detergents will cause pitting. Store silver in special flannel bags
infused with particles of silver that will help retard tarnish. You can
find these bags in jewelry and department stores sold as “Pacific
Silvercloth.” I have been able to find this product online at
"Pacific Silvercloth" - by the yard: Estes-Simmons
Goddard’s silver polishes and Mr. Metal,
as well as fine furniture polishes, are available in grocery stores,
drug stores and kitchen stores nationwide and all of these products are
certified kosher. The company has been protecting valuable objects since
1893 and is preferred by silversmiths, jewelers and housekeeping staffs
worldwide.
For more information, visit
www.goddards.com or call (877)
661-1853.
Courtesy of ARA Content
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