Even the most beautiful silver darkens over time, becoming covered with a matte black coating, especially if it has been stored in a box for a long time without use. Many people think that it needs to be rubbed with polish for a long time, but in fact this is just oxidation, which can be easily removed without effort. Previously, without store-bought products and special brushes, this problem was solved in 10 minutes in the kitchen.
What you will need:
water – 1 liter
baking soda – 2 tablespoons
baking foil – 1 sheet
salt – 1 teaspoon
How to do:
- Line the bottom of the pan with foil, shiny side up.
- Place tarnished silver items on the foil. It is important that they touch the foil.
- Pour in soda and salt, pour boiling water so that everything is covered with water.
- Leave for 5-10 minutes. You will see how the black coating “transfers” from the silver to the foil.
- Remove the equipment, rinse with clean water and wipe with a soft cloth.
Everything happens thanks to a substitution reaction: silver gives up oxides, and aluminum from the foil “takes” them onto itself. Baking soda and salt speed up the process. Not a single scratch will appear, the shine returns.
The method is suitable for spoons, forks, coasters, bracelets and anything made from real silver. Do not use on items with stones, pearls or gold plated as moisture may damage them.
Store dried silver in a cotton bag; it will stay shiny longer.
