How to clean silver jewellery at home
Simple, safe ways to clean tarnished silver chains, bracelets and rings at home, plus daily habits that keep silver bright.
All real silver slowly darkens over time. It's a natural reaction with sulphur in the air, and it's a sign your piece is genuine. The good news: it cleans up easily.
Everyday care
Wear it often. Skin contact and gentle rubbing keep silver bright.
Put it on after perfume, deodorant and creams, and take it off for the gym, swimming and showers.
Store it in a closed box or zip pouch, away from air and moisture.
Light tarnish: polishing cloth
Rub gently with a silver polishing cloth. It removes light tarnish in a minute and is the safest method for everything, including engraved and oxidised pieces.
Heavier tarnish: soap and water
Soak for 5 minutes in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap, brush gently with a soft toothbrush (especially between chain links), rinse, then dry completely with a soft cloth.
What to avoid
Toothpaste and baking-soda scrubs can scratch polished silver.
Don't use harsh chemicals or bleach.
On oxidised (black) pieces, only use a polishing cloth on the raised areas. Dips and pastes remove the black finish.
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