How to Clean Sterling Silver Jewelry at Home – Vancouver Jeweler’s Guide

by Cheyenne Lopez

How to Clean Sterling Silver Jewelry at Home – Vancouver Jeweler’s Guide

If you’ve noticed your sterling silver jewelry looking dull or dark, you’re not alone. As a Vancouver jewelry maker, I hear from clients all the time who want to know how to clean sterling silver at home without damaging it. Whether it’s a necklace, bracelet, or ring, this guide will walk you through safe, effective ways to restore that bright shine

— plus share where to get your silver professionally cleaned in Vancouver if you’d rather skip the DIY. 

Why Sterling Silver Tarnishes Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver, mixed with other metals (usually copper). In Vancouver’s moist coastal air, these metals react with sulfur, creating the dark coating we call tarnish. It’s normal and totally reversible.

Quick Everyday Cleaning (Light Tarnish)

  1. Fill a small bowl with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap.
  2. Gently rub the jewelry with your fingers. 
  3. Rinse in clean water and dry thoroughly with a microfiber cloths
  4. Store in an airtight bag or anti-tarnish pouch.

    Deep Clean (Heavy Tarnish)

    1. Line a bowl with aluminum foil (shiny side up).
    2. Place your jewelry inside so it touches the foil.
    3. Sprinkle 1–2 tablespoons of baking soda over the jewelry.
    4. Pour hot (not boiling) water to cover.
    5. Let sit for 2–5 minutes, then rinse and dry completely.

    Final Shine Use a silver polishing cloth, rubbing in straight lines to avoid scratching. 

    What NOT to Use
    • Toothpaste (too abrasive)
    • Harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia
    • Paper towels or rough scrubbers (leave scratches)

    Prevent Tarnish
    • Store in airtight containers or anti-tarnish bags.
    • Keep silica gel packs in your jewelry box.
    • Wear your silver often, your skin’s oils help protect it.

    Professional Cleaning in Vancouver For sterling silver pieces with gemstones, pearls, or intricate detailing, bring them to a professional. I offer in-studio sterling silver cleaning and polishing in Vancouver and restore each piece to its original
    brilliance while protecting delicate settings.     Visit my studio in Vancouver or contact me online for professional silver cleaning services.

Heres a reference of my work on TIKTOK: 

https://www.tiktok.com/@cheyfuego/video/7464259182846332165

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