How to Care for Silver Tableware

Wash silver tableware and utensils with a phosphate-free dish soap after each use. Line the sink with a towel beforehand to prevent the silver from scratching, and don’t wash silver along with other types of metal. Avoid washing silver in a dishwasher. The heat and detergents will damage it.

Silver diningware will rarely require polishing if it is used frequently and then washed and stored properly. If silver service items have been discolored by coffee, tea, or other liquids, fill them with water, drop in an denture cleaning tablet such as Polident, and let sit for five minutes. Salt can corrode silver. Fill corroded silver salt cellars with ammonia and let them sit for 10–30 minutes to remove corrosion. Rinse the salt cellars well and let them dry before storing.

Store silver in felt in a dry place away from extreme temperatures. Don’t wrap or secure silver tableware with newspapers or rubber bands, as both contain chemicals that can cause tarnish or corrosion requiring professional repair.

Fine scratches on silver utensils are not cause for concern. Over time, they’ll form a rich patina. Take broken or heavily tarnished pieces to a professional silversmith for repair.