Silver can be cleaned using several types of machines, each with its own process. The most common method involves an ultrasonic cleaner.
Ultrasonic Cleaning of Silver
This method is effective for removing dirt and polish residue, but not tarnish.
Process:
- Fill the ultrasonic cleaner tank halfway with water.
- Add an equal amount of a silver cleaning solution, such as Elma noble clean (resulting in a 50/50 dilution). Note: Different solutions have different ratios – always check the manufacturer's instructions.
- Place the silver items in the tank, ensuring they are fully submerged but not overcrowded.
- Close the lid and activate the ultrasound for 10-15 minutes to mix the solution and dislodge embedded particles.
Other Machine Cleaning Methods
While ultrasonic cleaners are popular, other machines can assist in silver cleaning indirectly:
- Dishwashers: Silver can be cleaned in a dishwasher, though acid-free detergents are recommended. This is most suitable for removing food residue and light soil.
- Rotary polishing machines: These machines, often used by professionals, use abrasive compounds to polish silver, restoring shine but requiring more care and expertise. (Note: These are not for removing tarnish.)
Important Considerations:
- Tarnish Removal: Ultrasonic cleaning and dishwashers are not effective at removing tarnish. Alternative methods, such as chemical processes or polishing, are needed for tarnish removal.
- Silver Plating: Exercise caution when cleaning silver-plated items with machines, as harsh cleaners or aggressive scrubbing can damage the plating.
