You’ve been doing it all wrong. Here’s the right way to clean silver at home with just a few common items

2. Line the container with aluminum foil, shiny side up. The aluminum acts as a catalyst in the reaction that removes tarnish from the silver.

3. Fill the container with hot water. The heat of the water helps to speed up the chemical reaction.

4. Add about a tablespoon of salt and a tablespoon of baking soda for every cup of hot water. Stir until both are fully dissolved. The baking soda and salt establish a conductive solution that facilitates the transfer of electrons.

5. Submerge your tarnished silver items into the solution. Make sure they are in direct contact with the aluminum foil. This contact is essential for the electrochemical reaction to occur.

6. Leave the silver items in the solution for anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour, depending on the extent of the tarnish. You will begin to notice the tarnish being lifted away.

7. Once the silver is clean, remove it from the solution, rinse thoroughly with clean water, and dry with a soft cloth.

This cleaning method utilizes a simple chemical reaction known as an electrochemical reduction. The hot water dissolves the salt and baking soda, creating a conductive solution. When the tarnished silver comes into contact with aluminum in this solution, a tiny electric current, facilitated by the dissolved salt and baking soda, causes the sulfur atoms bonded to the silver (which give it a tarnished appearance) to transfer to the aluminum. This reaction reverses the tarnishing process, removing the sulfur from the silver and leaving it clean and shiny. It’s a practical and effective science-backed technique, perfect for restoring the brilliance of your cherished silver items.

Cleaning silver doesn’t have to be a tedious chore filled with chemicals and elbow grease. With this DIY solution, you’re not only ensuring a sparkling finish but also embracing a method that’s safer for you and the environment. So the next time your silver pieces start to look dull and tarnished, remember: you’ve got the perfect solution right at home. Happy cleaning!