There are a number of do's and dont's when it comes to looking after sterling silver goods. The following is not an exhaustive set of recommendations, but we will try to assist you to avoid some of the pitfalls.

You will want to try to avoid your silver developing a tarnish. Instead, it should develop a "patina" - the name for a warm tone in appearance.

If you have been using silver flatware, it should be cleaned as soon as possible after use, using a mild detergent. Some foods can react by virtue of the acids or chemicals contained in them. We would recommend careful hand washing in warm soapy water followed by a quick drying with a soft cloth. We do not recommend the use of dishwashers for silver surfaces.

Even a long soak in water can have an adverse effect so we recommend doing the washing up after your meal rather than leaving the cutlery to soak overnight. Do not use silver dips, abrasives, all-puropse metal cleaners, toothpaste or anything that does not come with a maker's guarantee and recommendation. You won't be able to complain to Colgate if use of their toothpaste does not give your cutlery a ring of confidence around it.

Try to avoid scratching of pieces if they are being washed together. Remember that silver knives usually have stainless steel blades due to silver not being a strong enough material.

SILVER DIP
If you are looking for silver dip suppliers, try this link - Silver Dip. Silver dip is a tricky substance to work with and can ruin your cutlery if you do not follow the makers' instructions precisely. For example, do not allow the dip to spill onto steel surfaces (this includes blades of "silver" knives which are stainless steel) or, say, onto your sink's draining board.

We prefer not to advise upon nor to take responsibility for recommending silver dip usage because of the risks of mis-use. Therefore, if you do elect to use this cleaning agent, then please check with the suppliers for advice as to how best to use silver dip.

STORAGE
We can supply cloth roll storage bags which make for good protection of silver cutlery. They have a capacity of 12 pieces and each item is inserted individually into the roll which can be tied up before putting them away, ideally in a non-humid location. Cloth rolls are impregnated to help your silver cutlery stay brighter for longer. Or, make use of a canteen which will help to maintain a safer more air-tight environment for the cutlery. Please see our Showroom page for cloth rolls and canteens where these items can be found - Showroom.

Many experts recommend that the best way to keep silver cutlery looking good, is to use it frequently. This will help to develop the patina.

Here is a book called "Caring For Your Cherished Possessions: The Experts Guide To Cleaning, Preserving And Protecting Your China, Silver, Furniture, Clothes, Paintings".
Click Here for Price and Ordering Info

More about caring for silver at - How To Care For Silver Pieces
and here - CATRA - Care of Cutlery & Flatware.