Question: How to clean antique sterling flatware?

(Posted by: chinarain53 on 2008-12-06 13:30:08)

My Mom's, Mom's sterling flatware has to be over 100 yrs old. It's in the attic, and I am having my Dad take it out, so I can either get it polished professionally, or do it myself. Any suggstions? Sorry, I forgot to add, I donnot want to use paste. Takes to long, and makes a mess. Is there any new products on the market? And, does any know how much to get it done professionally? I tried going to the antique web site. I had to sign up, so, I am having trouble signing up, and when I asked for help, they want my URL. I donnot have one, so, hence I cannot sign up, so I cannot ask them a question.

Posted by: lonelymagpie on 2008-12-06, 13:32:59

I wouldn't pay for professional polishing. You can buy silver polish at Wal-Mart for around $5. It's a paste that you rub on and it's easy to use. It's usually around the household cleaner section. Just make sure it says its for use on silver and don't buy any liquid jewelry cleaners, they don't work and are a pain.

Posted by: Wishmaster69 on 2008-12-06, 13:37:23

There are numerous cleaners out there to choopse form that will give you stunning results.I restore clocks and use some of them to clen the brass plates of the clock movements.But look for cleaners that are specially designed to clean sterling.They come in both cream and liquid.You should be able to find cleaners at any local store in the cleaning section with soap powders and ammonia as well as other products.

Posted by: flutemaster2003 on 2008-12-07, 04:22:03

Um, hate to tell you this but I as well as many professionals use Tarn-ex. I know it's a chemical but I use it on my professional flutes (And I know you know what those cost, I just don't touch the pads or springs) except my solid gold one. The trick is to wear tight, non-latex fitting gloves and water it down a bit. Then be sure to rinse it in a plastic basin of water. On my flutes, I use a small cloth and q tip. Try a 50/ 50 ratio and if it's not strong enough add a little at a time until you see results.. I have used it on my silver tray set and have had no problems. Don't use a paste with ANY abrasive in it such as baking soda/ toothpaste.. I guarantee you will not like the scratches it leaves behind. You can get it at Walgreen's, Target, or I've even seen it at Walmart. It is about 8 bucks a bottle but that will last you a long time.. Oh, try Home Depot or Lowes.. Just call ahead to save the drive..

Posted by: Anthony S on 2008-12-08, 11:46:42

I would ask the Community at "I Antique Online " iantiqueonline.com They have over 1000 members who buy, sell or collect antiques and art. You will get more specialized feedback this way.