How to Get Corrosion Off of a Silver Salt Shaker
Although sterling silver salt shakers are beautiful on a kitchen or dining room table, salt and sterling silver actually do not mix. Salt corrodes silver rather quickly and simply scrubbing the corroded areas does not remove the stain. Removal usually involves soaking the salt shaker in ammonia for a short period of time. The ammonia eats away the corroded areas without damaging the silver.
Step 1
Ventilate the area by opening windows and turning on fans, since ammonia is highly toxic in enclosed spaces.
Step 2
Empty the silver salt shaker and place it in a bowl or container.
Step 3
Pour enough ammonia into the bowl or container to completely cover the salt shaker. Cover the bowl or container with plastic wrap. Allow the salt shaker to soak in the ammonia for at least 10 minutes.
Step 4
Remove the plastic wrap and check the salt shaker. If corrosion remains, soak the shaker in 10-minute increments until the corrosion is no longer visible.
Step 5
Use a silver polishing cloth to polish the silver. Store the salt shaker in a cool, dry cabinet.
References
- Jeffrey Herman Silver Restoration and Conservation; Cleaning Silver; Jeffrey Herman
- "Girls Just Wanna Have Clean!"; Vicki Christian; 2004
Tips
- Do not wash sterling silver in the dishwasher.
- Store sterling silver salt shakers without salt inside to help reduce corrosion.
Writer Bio
Cricket Webber began writing for fun as a young adult and started writing professionally in 2010. She is based in the deep South. Webber specializes in articles on greener living. Her work has appeared in various online publications. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in education from Converse College.
More Articles
