Cleaning Silverware

My great grandmother left my mother her sterling silverware set and every Thanksgiving, I carefully lay it on our table. It's the only time every year that we use it and that's one of the times each year that I clean it. Cleaning your silverware will help it from oxidizing, or turning yellowish colors, as well as prolong the use of your set. Some simple silver cleaner and some lint-free, terry cloth bar towels are the best way to get any silverware set shiny, beautiful and just like new again.

1. Finding the right polish. There are definitely plenty of different silver cleaners out there. In fact, the shelf is usually lined with so many that it's hard to choose which one will do the best job. I have always cleaned my great grandmother's silverware with a baking soda and water paste. This is inexpensive and very earth friendly. Pour some baking soda in a small dish and add enough water to make it the consistency of toothpaste.
2. Using the cleaner. Take as much cleaner as you need and begin by gently rubbing it on the piece of silverware with one of the lint-free, terry cloth towels. How much you use depends on how big the object is and, of course, how many pieces are in a set.
3. Wiping off the cleaner. Once you think your cleaner has done a good enough job, take the clean, dry towel and wipe off all of the cleaner. It's important to make sure all of the cleaner is off before storing it or using it.
4. Storing your silverware. Although silverware can be stored in boxes or in drawers, I have always kept mine in a felt lined container. This keeps the silverware from getting excessive scratches and making it look over used. After all, this kind of beautiful silverware should look as great as the occasion you are using it for.

Cleaning your silverware is essential to keeping it looking new, which in turn will help you accessorize your parties. Always use terry cloth towels to avoid tiny scratches from hard cotton fibers. And making sure to store it properly will ensure that your silverware will have a long, shiny life.