How does silver become discolored?
There are several factors that cause silver to discolor or oxidize. Silver reacts to certain sulfur compounds. That chemical reaction can come from, among other things:
- Humidity
- Contact with makeup
- Skin contact (due to ph value)
In what ways can you polish silver?
You can polish silver to remove discoloration by immersing your jewelry or cutlery in a bowl of lukewarm water. To the water you then add baking soda or lemon. Then cover the tray with aluminum foil. The acidity of the products combined with the aluminum foil will cause the oxidation to come off thanks to a chemical reaction. After soaking for a while, remove the jewelry or cutlery and you can pat it dry thoroughly.
More experimental ways to polish silver
Do you like to think out-of-the box? Then you can polish your silver with ketchup, toothpaste or cola. With toothpaste and ketchup, you lubricate the jewelry or cutlery and let it soak in for a while. With cola, dip the cutlery in it. In all cases, let it soak in sufficiently long, rinse afterwards and pat dry well.
How can you prevent discoloration of silver?
Jewelry is best kept in a box where it is sealed from the air. Cleaning your jewelry occasionally can also help keep it clean. You can protect your cutlery by storing it in aluminum foil or by placing chalk with the cutlery. Chalk has an absorbent effect and absorbs moisture from the air. Also, did you know that rubber and silver are not a good combination? So keep rubber far away from your cutlery or jewelry.
Get assistance from the cleaning helpers at L&S Housekeeping
Do you need help with a major cleaning? Would you like help on a regular basis? Then let a household help from L&S Housekeeping help you. For more information, please contact us via our contact form or by phone at 053 83 95 00.
