Almost every family has family silverware, because 30-40 years ago it was fashionable to give such sets for a wedding or anniversary. Of course, during use, silver loses its original appearance. This occurs due to the oxidation of copper contained in the cutlery alloy. But if your spoons and forks are tarnished, there are ways to safely and effectively clean your silverware at home.
Toothpaste
Many housewives suggest cleaning silverware with toothpaste or tooth powder. This is a truly effective method; the components of the paste will remove dirt, plaque, and restore color. Just don't use a toothbrush, as it can damage the metal.
It is best to take a flannel napkin or a cotton sponge. Apply the paste to a napkin and wipe the dishes with smooth movements. If the contamination is severe, you will need to repeat the cleaning. After cleaning, the devices should be rinsed in running water.
Soda and foil
Another quick and very effective method. The essence of the bath is that silver sulfacide enters into a double reaction with sodium biacid (soda) and aluminum, and dirt and oxidized particles are rejected.
To carry out this cleaning, you need to take a glass or enamel bowl or pan and put a sheet of foil on the bottom, and silver cutlery on it.Bring 1 liter of water to a boil and dissolve 2 tbsp in boiling water. spoons of soda. Pour the resulting solution into the dishes and leave for 10 minutes. Wash clean utensils as usual.
Potato decoction
An unexpected but effective way to clean forks and knives. The whole secret is that when boiling potatoes “in their jackets,” ascorbic acid is released into the water, which makes silver items clean and shiny. Place the utensils in the hot water left after boiling the potatoes and leave for 40 minutes. Then wash with regular detergent and sponge.
Vinegar solution
If soda and toothpaste did not cope with the task, then you need to soak the silver spoons in a solution of water and vinegar. To do this, add 100 ml of vinegar to 1 liter of warm water and fill the devices with the resulting liquid. Leave to act for 20 minutes, then rinse with water and rub with a dry cloth.
Hydrogen peroxide
As an excellent antiseptic, hydrogen peroxide will also clean cutlery. The principle of action is the same as with a vinegar solution. In this case, dissolve 3 tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide in 1 liter of water, then lower the dishes into the resulting solution. Leave for 2-3 hours, and then rinse with water.
Don’t despair if your expensive silverware has become tarnished and stopped shining: a few homemade tricks and your spoons and knives will sparkle with precious metal again.
