Are you the recipient of your aunt’s silver flatware collection? Regardless of if you inherited your flatware or have been collecting it for decades, you need to know how to about cleaning antique flatware so it will be as gorgeous as the day you got it.
Silver flatware is a beautiful addition to any table setting, providing a touch of elegance and sophistication. Unfortunately, silver is prone to tarnish and over time can become dull and discolored.
Luckily, with proper care for silver and continued maintenance, your silver flatware can stay looking shiny and new for many years to come. This article will provide an overview of how to clean and polish silver flatware whether it’s to sell silver flatware or to pass it on to generations to come.
Steps to Cleaning Antique Silverware
Cleaning antique silverware requires being knowledgeable of what to do and what not to do with you valued keepsakes. Following the steps below is heavily advised so you don’t ruin your antique silver flatware collection.
The first step in caring for silver flatware is to ensure that it is properly stored. The best way to store silver is in an airtight container with a cloth or velvet lining to help prevent tarnish. It is also important to keep silver away from moisture, air, and sunlight which can all cause tarnishing.
The next step in caring for silver flatware is to clean it properly. A non-abrasive solution of warm water and mild dish soap is the best way to clean silver. It is important to use a soft cloth or sponge and to avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals. If the silver is heavily tarnished, a soft toothbrush can be used to gently scrub away the tarnish.
Once the silver has been cleaned, it is important to rinse it with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth. It is also important to buff away any water spots that may remain.
The final step in care for silver flatware is to polish it. It is best to use a specialized silver polish or a mixture of baking soda and water. It is important to use a soft cloth when polishing and to avoid using abrasive materials.
Inspecting Your Antique Silver Flatware
In addition to the steps outlined above, it is important to regularly inspect silver flatware for signs of tarnish or damage. Tarnish can be removed with a silver polish or a mixture of baking soda and water. If silver flatware is damaged, it is best to take it to a professional for repair.
Caring for silver flatware is important in order to keep it looking beautiful and to avoid the need for costly repairs. With proper storage, cleaning, and polishing, silver flatware can stay looking shiny and new for many years to come.
Sell Silver Flatware
There are a number of different ways to sell silver flatware. Depending on the condition of the flatware, you may be able to sell it through an auction house, pawn shop, antique shop, or online auction websites such as eBay. You may also be able to find buyers through classified ads or by posting an advertisement on your local community bulletin board. You can also set up a booth at a flea market or craft fair to sell your silver flatware. If you have a large collection of silver flatware, you may want to consider having it appraised by a professional to determine its value.
As long as you have taken care of your treasures, you should have no problem when you go to sell silver flatware.
