To effectively clean sterling silver, you can use gentle methods at home. A mild soap-and-water solution works for lightly tarnished items, while a baking soda paste is better for heavier tarnish. For quick touch-ups, specially treated silver polishing cloths are ideal.
Commercial silver dip cleaners are also an option but should be used with caution. It’s important to clean silver regularly to prevent tarnish buildup and to store it in a dry place. For valuable or intricate pieces, professional cleaning may be advisable. Avoid using abrasive materials like toothpaste or steel wool.