Silver is a soft precious metal used in making jewellery, electronics and tableware, such as pitchers and teapots. Silver can lose its lustre and white colour from tarnish, a chemical reaction caused by sulphur dioxide in the air. Tarnish produces a film of oxide over the surface of the silver. Most silver polishes can remove the tarnish, if you use the proper cleaning technique. Once the tarnish is removed, you can restore the shine and colour of your silver pitcher and teapot.

  • Silver is a soft precious metal used in making jewellery, electronics and tableware, such as pitchers and teapots.
  • Most silver polishes can remove the tarnish, if you use the proper cleaning technique.

Dampen a sponge with warm water and rinse it out. Put on the nitrile gloves to protect your hands from the polish.

Apply the silver polish to the sponge, using the amount specified on the package. Wipe the inside of the tarnished silver teapot and pitcher, using straight, even strokes. As tarnish transfers and accumulates onto the sponge, rinse it with water and wring it out. Add more polish as needed until all of the tarnish is gone.

Rinse the teapot and pitcher thoroughly with warm water to remove all traces of polish residue.

Dry the teapot and pitcher inside and out with a soft cloth, and buff it to a shine.

TIP

Store your silver items wrapped in tissue paper and placed in a sealed plastic bag to prevent tarnish.