Get Your Good Silver Ready for Springtime Entertaining

(ARA) - Do you think twice before bringing out the good silver, trying to decide if you have time to clean it before your party, in light of all your other errands and commitments? Polishing silver is actually a simple process, and with the proper care and the right cleaning supplies, there�s no reason to keep your good silver under wraps. In fact, by following these simple tips, you may find that you�re more inclined to use your silver -- even if there is no special occasion.

Silver Basics

Silver is a relatively soft metal and can be dented or damaged by rough handling. In addition, it is subject to corrosion, known as tarnish, when it is exposed to sulphur-containing compounds in the air. Corrosion causes silver to turn dark and lose its lustrous surface sheen. Heat and humidity also promote tarnish, so take this into consideration when deciding where to store your silver. While it is important to keep silver clean and free from dust and surface grime, it�s better to polish only when necessary, just before using it.

Cleaning Your Silver Safely

There are many types of silver polishing products on the market. The key to making the job of caring for your silver easier is to choose a product best suited to the job.

For cleaning items such as serving trays, pitchers and bowls that do not have engraving or fine details, silver polish liquid is fast and easy. Choose one that cleans, polishes and protects in one step, like Goddard�s Silver Polish, to save time and effort. Apply the polish with a clean, soft cloth, rubbing gently until all of the tarnish is gone, turning the cloth frequently. Allow the polish to dry, then wipe it with another clean, soft cloth to buff it to a brilliant shine.

Silver polish foam is perfect for larger objects and those with engraving and fine details or filigree. These items would normally take longer and require using a toothbrush or other brushes to get the tarnish out,but a product like Goddard�s Silver Foam does all of the work for you -- simply moisten a soft sponge with warm water, dip it in the paste and softly rub the sponge over the surface, creating a rich, cleansing lather. That�s the secret to getting all of the tarnish out of the nooks, crannies and engraving. Rinse the item under warm running water and then dry immediately with a clean, soft cloth.

For silverware and serving utensils, silver dip is the way to go. Simply open the jar and carefully dip the item into the jar until the tarnish disappears. If the item doesn�t fit into the jar, use a cotton ball soaked in silver dip and rub until all the tarnish is removed. Wash the cleaned items in warm, soapy water, rinse well and dry with a soft cloth.

If you prefer a multi-use product, choose an all-metal polish like Mr. Metal that works on silver, brass, copper and more. Use it on copper cookware, brass candle sticks, silver, and other decorative items in your home.

After the Party

To ensure your silver will look good the next time you use it, start by hand-washing the pieces, as harsh detergents will cause pitting. Store silver in special flannel bags infused with particles of silver that will help retard tarnish. You can find these bags in jewelry and department stores sold as �Pacific Silvercloth.�

Goddard�s silver polishes and Mr. Metal, as well as fine furniture polishes, are available in grocery stores, drug stores and kitchen stores nationwide and all of these products are certified kosher. The company has been protecting valuable objects since 1893 and is preferred by silversmiths, jewelers and housekeeping staffs worldwide.

For more information, visit www.goddards.com or call (877) 661-1853.

Courtesy of ARA Content