Silver items such as payal, jhumkas, silver plates, and idols look beautiful when they are new, but after a few months, they turn black and blue. This happens when silver reacts with air and sulphur, forming a black layer called tarnish. With Dhanteras just around the corner, when we buy new silver and bring out old silver items for puja, cleaning them becomes a must. 

The good news is, you can simply clean the silver jewellery at home with just two ingredients present in your home: toothpaste and baking soda - and make them shine like new in just 10 minutes for Dhanteras Puja.

Here are two simple methods that work wonders on most of the silver items in your house. 

How To Clean Silver At Home With Toothpaste

Toothpaste in itself is mildly abrasive, so it gently removes the black layer without scratching the silver. 

What You Need: White, non-gel toothpaste, soft cloth or old soft toothbrush, lukewarm water

Step-By-Step Guide to Cleaning Silver Items With Toothpaste

1. Wash your silver item with plain water to remove dust. 

2. Take a pea-sized amount of white toothpaste on a soft cloth or toothbrush.

3. Rub it gently on the silver in small circular motions. Focus more on the blackened areas.

4. For jewellery with intricate designs, use a soft toothbrush to reach the corners.

5. Leave it for 2-3 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.

6. Dry it immediately with a soft, dry cotton cloth. Do not let it air dry, or water marks will appear.

This method is best for silver rings, chains, earrings, coins, and small puja items. 

How To Clean Silver With Baking Soda 

Baking soda is best for cleaning silver items that are heavily tarnished, and also for tarnish that toothpaste cannot clean. 

What You Need: Baking soda, aluminium foil, hot water, a bowl, a soft cloth

Step-By-Step Guide to Cleaning Silver Items With Baking Soda 

1. Line a bowl with aluminium foil, shiny side up.

2. Place your silver items on the foil.

3. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of baking soda over them.

4. Pour hot water over them until the items are fully covered. You will see bubbles - that is the tarnish lifting off.

5. Leave it for 5-10 minutes for light tarnish, and 20-30 minutes for heavy blackness.

6. Take out the items with tongs, rinse with clean water, and dry with a soft cloth.

This method works like magic because aluminium foil pulls the sulphur away from the silver and makes it shine again. This method is best for silver thalis, bowls, spoons, payal, and heavy chains.

Some Tips To Keep Silver Shining For Long

  • Always store silver in a zip-lock bag or soft cloth pouch to avoid air contact.
  • Keep a small piece of chalk or silica gel in your jewellery box to absorb moisture.
  • Remove silver jewellery before applying perfume, makeup, or going swimming.
  • Never use vinegar, lemon, or harsh chemical cleaners on silver with stones like pearl, turquoise, or coral.
  • Do a patch test first if your item is antique or has precious stones, and if you are unsure, consult a jeweller.

Conclusion

Cleaning silver at home is easy, cheap, and safe if you use the right method. Use toothpaste for regular cleaning and baking soda with aluminium foil for deep cleaning. With a little care, your silver will stay shiny and new for years.

(Image Credits: Pinterest)

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