What should you avoid cleaning sterling silver jewellery with?Updated 2 months ago

When cleaning silver jewellery, it's important to avoid certain substances and methods that can be too harsh and cause damage. Here are things you should not use:

• Toothpaste: Often cited as a DIY cleaner, toothpaste can be too abrasive for silver and may scratch the surface.
• Chlorine and Bleach: These harsh chemicals can damage silver, leading to permanent discolouration and deterioration.
• Harsh Detergents: Strong cleaning agents can strip away the finish and patina of silver.
• Baking Soda or Salt with Aluminum Foil for Delicate or Antique Silver: While effective for some items, this method can be too harsh for delicate or antique pieces with a high silver content.
• Steel Wool or Abrasive Brushes: These can scratch the surface of silver.
• Oven Cleaners and Other Harsh Chemicals: These products are too aggressive and can cause irreparable damage to silver jewellery.

It's always safer to stick to gentle cleaning methods, such as a soft cloth with a mild soap and water solution. For more valuable or sentimental pieces, professional cleaning is recommended to avoid accidental damage.