Wash the silver with warm water and mild dish soap; rinse and dry thoroughly
Line a bowl with aluminum foil (shiny side up)
Add hot water to the bowl
Add baking soda (about 1–2 tablespoons per cup of water)
Optional: add salt (a pinch)
Place the silver in the solution so it contacts the foil
Let it sit briefly (seconds to a few minutes) until tarnish lightens
Remove with tongs, rinse well with clean water, and dry with a soft cloth
For light tarnish: rub with a silver polishing cloth, moving in one direction
For stubborn tarnish: use a silver polish made for silver; apply with a soft cloth and follow the product directions
Use a soft toothbrush for crevices; avoid abrasive scrubbing on delicate details
For silver-plated items: use gentler methods (polishing cloth or mild silver polish); avoid prolonged soaking in chemical solutions
Avoid abrasive pads, steel wool, and harsh cleaners
Avoid chlorine, bleach, and products not labeled safe for silver
After polishing: store in anti-tarnish cloth or an airtight bag/container
Keep silver dry and reduce exposure to air and humidity