How To Clean Sterling Silver Chains

Sterling silver chains need to properly cleaned to maintain their luster. Sterling silver naturally tarnishes over time as the silver and the sulfides from humidity and air pollution interact. This tarnish begins as a slightly golden opaque covering, but if left untreated it eventually turns the chain black.

Step 1

Place aluminum foil on the bottom of a glass pan shiny side up.

Step 2

Boil water. While water is boiling place your sterling silver chain on the aluminum foil. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on top of your chain.

Step 3

Pour boiling water on top of your sterling silver chain. Make sure you cover the chain completely with boiling water. Allow the chain to soak for three minutes.

Step 4

Take your tongs and flip the chain over. Make sure the opposite side of your chain is touching the aluminum foil. Leave it in for two minutes.

Step 5

Remove it from the water and dry the chain with cotton cloth.