Cleaning Your Silver Spoons

The following tips were provided by Robben Restoration's Silversmith and we wanted to say "Thanks Rita".

Tips for tarnish-free silver
Tarnish is the result of silver coming into contact with sulfur-based compounds including various foods and fossil fuels. Allowing food to sit on plates and dishes after use is a common source of tarnish. Humidity will increase the rate of tarnishing. If you frequently use your silver, and then gently wash and dry it, tarnish seldom becomes a problem. So, use your silver.

Tips for cleaning silver
The safest and easiest time to clean silver is at the first sign of tarnish. Using Hagerty Foam when tarnish first appears will restore and protect the surface. If the piece is badly tarnished, applying Hagerty Spray will usually be effective. Work in a well ventilated area and use a soft cloth. If the piece is highly detailed, apply the spray to the cloth and wipe over the ornate areas.

Tips for removing "black spots"
Black spots are frequently the result of the lacquer finish deteriorating or aging. Before polishing, remove the lacquer by immersing the piece in a sink full of very hot tap water and leaving it submerged in the water until it has completely cooled. This process can be accelerated by adding 1/2 cup of ammonia to the hot water. After cooling, the lacquer should peel off when hand rubbed. If some of the "skin" remains, the process should be repeated. After the lacquer is removed, polish with Hagerty polish. If the lacquer prooblem persists, and you wish to have the piece re-lacquered, consult Robben Restoration or your silver specialist.

Tips for using salt shakers and salt dishes
Salt has a very corrosive effect on metals. While it is fine to use salt in shakers and dishes, some preventive care is necessary. After each use empty shakers and wipe out dishes and lids. Even the lids of the glass-lined shakers should be washed weekly. If corrosion is observed, shakers can be placed in a covered container with a small amount of ammonia and allowed to sit for 10 minutes. Work in a well ventilated space. The process can be repeated three times. If corrosion persists consult a professional silversmith.

Tips for cleaning pewter
Pewter can be easily cleaned with a paste made from pumice powder and water, then applied with a wet sponge. The result is a satin brush finish that looks great on interior and exterior pewter surfaces. For more of a satin finish, apply the pumice paste with extra fine steel wool.

You will want to see our Glossary of Silver Terms.

Robben Restoration

5628 Cheviot Road
Cincinnati, OH 45247
513 714-3619