If you grew up in an African household, then your parents probably always had special silverware that was reserved for guests. You may have asked yourself why they did that. The simple reason is that your silverware says a lot about you. Therefore, it was paramount for them to keep some silverware in mint condition.
Most people today don’t keep special cutlery or dishware for their guests but still want to serve them with shiny cutlery. However, daily use can take a toll on the appearance of your silverware leaving them with scratches and water stains. Additionally, stained cutlery can be a health hazard. It’s, therefore, important to maintain your silverware every so often. There are some hacks that can help you maintain your kitchenware. Here are some.
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Baking Soda Bath
Stained silverware look gloomy which can make your table setup look dull. Additionally, unattractive cutlery can be a distraction from a delicious home-cooked meal. If your spoons, forks, and knives have seen better days, you can restore their shine by giving them a baking soda bath. Line a large, flat tray with aluminum foil then lay your silverware on the tray. Make sure they’re not piled on top of each other. Pour a generous amount of baking soda then add boiling water. Let the tray sit for as long as needed. However, you should start noticing the stains disappearing within 5 minutes. Remove and let your silverware drain. Once drained, buff individually using a dry cloth. 22 Different Uses Of Baking Soda Around The House
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Toothpaste And Toothbrush
This is one of the least invasive ways to clean your silverware. Toothpaste is a good cleaning agent, especially for removing stains since it contains whitening properties. However, don’t go for whitening toothpaste as it can be too harsh for your silverware. It’s also recommended to use a toothbrush meant for children since it has soft bristles that won’t leave scratches. You can also use a microfiber cloth or a makeup brush. Place a small amount of toothpaste on the toothbrush, cloth, or makeup brush. Rub gently on the silverware. You should notice a difference after 1 minute. Rinse with warm water and pat dry. Different Uses Of Toothpaste In The Home
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Tomato Paste
It may sound counterproductive but tomatoes actually work wonders on stained silverware thanks to their acidic properties. The acid reacts with the silver sulfide that forms on the top of your silverware. However, the method can be messy which is why many people shy away from it. This is usually the last resort when all you have in your house is tomato paste. Submerge your silverware in the tomato paste and let it sit for 10 minutes. Remove and rinse in warm water. Scrub with a soft brush or buff with a microfiber cloth. 7 Benefits Of Tomatoes For Your Health
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Chalk
Chalk is an inexpensive and effective way to buff your silverware. It’s also unlikely and most people would be hesitant to use this method. However, it’s one of the best ways to clean your silverware. You can also store silverware with a piece of chalk to slow the oxidation process. Place a piece of chalk into a bowl and crush it into a fine powder. Add water to make a paste. Dip a damp, soft cloth into the paste and apply it on the silverware in a circular motion. Rub gently until you notice a shine. Use a dry, clean cloth to remove all of the chalky paste.
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Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is a highly sought-after ingredient and a must-have in every household due to its cleaning abilities. It’s highly versatile as it can be used as an air purifier, teeth whitener, skin cleanser, and of course, silver cleaner. It’s also good for your health as it boosts kidney health and treats diarrhoea. For silverware, it can restore shine and prevent tarnish. Take one part of activated charcoal and one part of water then mix to form a paste. Dip a microfiber cloth or toothbrush in the paste and rub the silver until the tarnish is gone. Rinse with water and dry with a cloth.
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