What Cleans Silver Jewelry Best?
Sterling silver jewelry naturally reacts with air and moisture, which can cause tarnish to develop over time. Tarnish is a surface reaction and does not indicate damage to the silver itself. When cleaned properly, sterling silver can be restored and maintained indefinitely.
The safest way to clean handmade sterling silver jewelry is by using gentle methods that preserve the metal and its finish. Abrasive or chemical cleaners are not safe for sterling silver and should be avoided, even when advertised as “silver safe.”
Solid sterling silver can be polished, repaired, and restored repeatedly, which makes proper care essential for long-term wear.
Why Sterling Silver Tarnishes
Tarnish forms when silver comes into contact with sulfur-containing compounds present in the air. Environmental factors such as humidity, personal care products, sweat, and pollution can accelerate this process.
Tarnish affects appearance only and does not compromise the structure or quality of the silver. With appropriate care, tarnish can be removed safely.
Recommended Methods for Cleaning Sterling Silver
Mild Soap and Warm Water
A small amount of gentle dish soap mixed with warm water is suitable for routine cleaning. Jewelry can be lightly cleaned using fingers or a soft cloth, then rinsed thoroughly and dried completely.
Silver Polishing Cloth
A cloth designed specifically for silver removes light tarnish and restores shine without removing material. For best results, use the high-quality sterling silver polishing cloth provided with your purchase, which is designed for safe, regular maintenance.
Baking Soda Paste (Occasional Use)
A paste made from baking soda and water may be used sparingly for deeper cleaning. It should be applied gently with a soft cloth and rinsed thoroughly to avoid residue.
Cleaning Methods to Avoid
The following methods can permanently damage sterling silver and should not be used:
Toothpaste or powdered cleaners
Ultrasonic or steam cleaners
Bleach, ammonia, or harsh chemicals
Abrasive commercial silver cleaners
Paper towels or stiff brushes
Abrasive or chemical cleaners can etch, pit, discolor, or thin sterling silver. Even when marketed as safe, these products may cause irreversible damage. Jewelry that has been damaged by abrasive or chemical cleaners is not eligible for repair or replacement under our lifetime warranty.
Preventing Tarnish Over Time
Every piece of our sterling silver jewelry is accompanied by a high-quality sterling silver polishing cloth, which is the safest and most effective way to remove light tarnish and maintain shine when used regularly, and should always be used instead of abrasive or chemical cleaners. Our sterling silver jewelry comes packaged in a velvet pouch or jewelry box designed to help limit exposure to air and moisture.
Proper storage and daily habits help reduce tarnish formation:
Store sterling silver in an airtight environment, or in the velvet pouch or jewelry box provided with your purchase
Use the sterling silver polishing cloth included with your jewelry for routine care
Remove jewelry before swimming, showering, or exercising
Apply perfumes and lotions before wearing jewelry
Regular wear helps slow tarnish development
Curious about other silver guide topics, such as what does 925 sterling silver mean?