Restoring Your Silverware
Remove oxidation from silver by creating an electrochemical reaction between aluminum foil, hot water, and baking soda. This process pulls the tarnish off the silver and onto the foil, bypassing the need for aggressive scrubbing or chemical pastes.
Know your metal
Use this method only for solid sterling or silver-plated items. If your silver has an intentional antique finish or blackened crevices, this will strip that patina away entirely.
- large plastic or glass basin
- aluminum foil
- boiling water
- tongs
- soft microfiber cloth
What goes in.
- 1 sheetheavy-duty aluminum foil
- 1/2 cupbaking soda
- 2 quartsboiling water
Making the connection
The silver must be in direct contact with the aluminum foil. The chemical reaction transfers the sulfur atoms from the silver to the foil, leaving the silver bright again.
The method.
Line the basin
Cover the bottom and sides of your basin completely with aluminum foil, shiny side up.
Arrange the silver
Place your tarnished silverware in the basin. Ensure every piece touches the foil directly. If items must overlap, keep the contact points minimal.
Add the catalyst
Sprinkle the baking soda evenly over the silver. Slowly pour the boiling water over the pieces until they are fully submerged.
Watch the reaction
You will notice a faint smell of sulfur and see the tarnish lift from the silver onto the foil. Let it sit for three to five minutes.
Rinse and dry
Use tongs to remove the pieces. Rinse them under cool running water, then buff immediately with a soft, dry cloth to prevent water spots.
When it doesn't go to plan.
If the tarnish is heavy, you may need to repeat the process with a fresh sheet of foil and new baking soda.
Avoid using metal bowls for this process, as they can interfere with the electrochemical reaction.
Buff the silver in long, straight strokes rather than circular motions to maintain a uniform finish.
The ones that keep coming up.
Can I use this on silver jewelry with gemstones?
Do not submerge pieces with glued-in gemstones or porous stones like turquoise, as the heat and chemicals can damage them.
Why does the foil turn grey?
That is the tarnish moving from your silverware to the foil. It is proof the reaction is working.
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