To Clean Plate (Silver Plate Cleaning Solution)
A traditional method for cleaning and polishing silver-plated items using a boiling solution of cream of tartar, alum, and salt. This technique removes tarnish and restores shine to silver plate.
Ingredients
- 1 ounce Cream of tartar (Approximately 2 tablespoons)
- 1 ounce Alum (Approximately 2 tablespoons; available at pharmacies or spice sections)
- 1 ounce Common salt (Approximately 2 tablespoons)
- 1 gallon Water (Approximately 16 cups)
Instructions
- 1Measure out 1 ounce each of cream of tartar, alum, and common salt. Pour 1 gallon of water into a large pot.
- 2Add the cream of tartar, alum, and salt to the water. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the ingredients.
- 3Carefully place the silver-plated items into the boiling solution. Ensure they are fully submerged. Continue boiling for 5-10 minutes depending on the level of tarnish.
- 4Using tongs, carefully remove the silver plate from the hot solution. Immediately rub dry with a soft, clean cloth. The plate will have a fine polish.
- 5For best results, repeat this cleaning process at regular intervals when the plate is not in use to prevent heavy tarnish buildup and maintain a consistent shine.
