How do you polish silver?

Polish silver by washing the tarnished items with gentle detergent, then soaking them in a solution of salt and baking soda. Finish off by using a commercial silver polish, if needed.

1. Wash tarnished silver

   Wash your tarnished silver items using mild dish detergent and warm water. Dry them with a soft cloth. If your items are only lightly tarnished, this step may be all you need.

2. Soak the items in a baking soda and salt solution

   Line an aluminum pan or glass baking dish with aluminum foil, and fill the pan with very hot water. Add 2 teaspoons of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of salt, and stir. Place the silver items into the solution, making sure that they are touching each other and the aluminum foil. The tarnish should visibly disappear over a period of about five minutes. Don't leave the items in the solution much longer, as pitting can occur.

3. Dry the items

   Dry the silver items with a soft, lint-free cloth.

4. Use commercial silver polish

   If your items are still showing signs of tarnish, attack the spots with a high-end commercial silver polish. Wear gloves when you apply the polish, follow the instructions on the package, and remove the residue with a soft cloth.