How to take care of sterling silver - Sterling silver rings on table

Sterling silver is a stunning metal, but it needs the right care to stay shiny and tarnish-free. Here’s a complete guide on how to take care of sterling silver to keep your jewelry looking its best. Whether you have a 925 sterling silver necklace, rings, or bracelets, these tips will help you protect your favorite pieces and extend their lifespan.

Does Sterling Silver Tarnish?

Yes, tarnishing is a natural process for sterling silver due to its exposure to moisture and sulfur in the air. This reaction can cause sterling silver to turn yellow or darken over time. The good news is that you can prevent tarnish with the right care and regular cleaning, so your sterling silver items can stay as beautiful as the day you bought them.

Does Sterling Silver Rust?

Unlike other metals, sterling silver does not rust. However, tarnishing is still common and, without proper care, can make your silver jewelry appear dull or aged. Regular cleaning and protection from moisture are essential for keeping your silver beautiful and rust-free.

How to Take Care of Sterling Silver

Wholesale sterling silver chains

Store Sterling Silver Properly

To protect sterling silver from tarnish, proper storage is essential. When sterling silver is exposed to air, tarnishing can happen quickly, so it’s best to store your pieces in an airtight bag, like a Ziploc, when they’re not being worn. Adding anti-tarnish strips inside the bag is also a great way to absorb excess moisture, providing extra protection from tarnish. 

To avoid scratches, keep each piece separated from other jewelry by placing it in a soft pouch or its own compartment. This keeps your sterling silver in pristine condition and helps avoid the small damages that can accumulate over time.

Limit Chemical Exposure

Limiting chemical exposure is crucial to maintaining the shine and appearance of your sterling silver. Lotions, perfumes, and hair products can all cause tarnishing, so it’s best to apply these products before putting on your jewelry. 

Similarly, swimming pools, hot tubs, and even saltwater can harm sterling silver. It’s wise to remove your jewelry before swimming or bathing to prevent these chemicals from damaging the metal. Physical activities that cause sweating should also be done without sterling silver jewelry, as sweat can speed up the tarnishing process.

Clean Your Sterling Silver Regularly

Keeping your silver tarnish-free is simple when you clean it regularly. A mixture of mild dish soap and warm water is effective for daily cleaning. Gently apply the solution to the silver with a soft cloth or sponge, then rinse with water and pat dry with a towel. 

For items with more tarnish, use a sterling silver cleaner specifically made for silver jewelry, as it will remove tarnish while enhancing the shine. If your silver has heavy tarnish, a paste made from baking soda and water can help. Rub the paste onto the silver with a soft cloth, rinse thoroughly, and dry the piece carefully to reveal a bright, restored shine.

Handle with Care

Limiting how much you handle your sterling silver will help avoid tarnish buildup, as natural oils from your skin can contribute to discoloration. Try to touch your silver jewelry as little as possible when wearing it, and consider using gloves when cleaning or handling it closely. This small step can help keep your sterling silver polished and shining over time.

How to Clean Tarnished Sterling Silver

Sterlring silver ring surrounded by rusted metal

When tarnish appears, there are a few home remedies to help restore your silver’s shine. White vinegar and baking soda make a quick tarnish remover. Place your silver jewelry in a bowl, cover it with vinegar, sprinkle baking soda, and let it sit for a few hours. Rinse the silver, then dry thoroughly. 

Another effective technique involves placing the silver on aluminum foil in a pan, covering it with boiling water and baking soda, and letting it sit. This method works well for heavily tarnished pieces, leaving your sterling silver bright and tarnish-free.

Conclusion: How to Take Care of Sterling Silver

Sterling silver care doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right techniques and some helpful products from Blake Brothers, your jewelry will stay looking new and beautiful for years. For more tips on how to take care of sterling silver or to explore our sterling silver collections, Blake Brothers is here for all your silver needs.

FAQs About How to Take Care of Sterling Silver

Does 925 Sterling Silver Tarnish?

Yes, 925 sterling silver does tarnish over time, especially if it’s exposed to air and moisture. However, with regular cleaning and proper storage, you can keep tarnishing to a minimum and maintain your silver’s shine.

How Do You Clean Sterling Silver?

For light tarnish, you can use mild soap and water for cleaning. For heavier tarnish, try baking soda paste or a sterling silver cleaner specifically made for silver. Avoid harsh chemicals that could scratch or damage the silver.

What Cleans Silver Best?

Soft cloths, mild soap, and water are excellent for regular cleaning. For tougher tarnish, silver jewelry cleaner or baking soda paste are very effective and gentle on the metal.

Can I Use a Sterling Silver Cleaner on All My Jewelry?

Yes, sterling silver cleaners are safe for all sterling silver pieces, but always check the label to ensure the cleaner is specifically for silver.

FAQs About Blake Brothers

Who Is Blake Brothers?

Blake Brothers is a wholesale jeweler in Milford, providing high-quality sterling silver jewelry and offering valuable tips on how to maintain it. We specialize in genuine sterling silver pieces that blend style with durability, making them ideal for long-term wear.

Where Can I Find More Sterling Silver Care Tips?

Our blog features a full range of tips on how to clean silver jewelry and how to polish sterling silver safely and effectively. Our experts are always here to help with any of your silver care needs.

Does Blake Brothers Offer Sterling Silver Cleaner?

Yes, we offer a variety of silver cleaning products designed to keep your sterling silver jewelry in top shape. Our selection is gentle and effective, removing tarnish without damaging your silver.