Antique silverware is precious; no one wants to intentionally ruin their flatware and cutlery. If you’re contemplating putting your antique silverware in the dishwasher, read this post first. We offer insight on this topic!

Is It Safe To Use the Dishwasher?

A common misconception about antique silverware is that it can’t go inside the dishwasher. However, that’s not true. You can put your antique silverware in the dishwasher without causing it harm. The key is to separate metals and make sure nothing touches the flatware while inside the dishwasher. Otherwise, silverware has an electrolytic reaction.

Tarnish and Electrolytic Reaction

The main concern of using a dishwasher to clean silverware is possible tarnishing. However, that’s not the real issue. Tarnish happens when sulfur in the air reacts with silver. It can have a yellow, red-brown, or dull grey appearance.

The color changes you see on silverware that’s been through the dishwasher are not tarnish but an electrolytic reaction. This reaction occurs when silver directly interacts with other types of metal in the dishwashing process. For example, brass, copper, and stainless steel are cookware metals.

If people place certain metal items in the dishwasher along with their silverware, electrolytic reactions will happen without separation. Therefore, the best solution is to separate antique silverware from other metals to maintain the flatware’s appearance.

Helpful Tips to Know

Preserve your antique silverware by following our helpful tips.

Tip One

Only place solid silver pieces in the dishwasher. Meaning no flatware with pearl handles, glue joints, or reinforced items. If you have hollow-handle knives, don’t put them in the dishwasher.

Tip Two

Rinse off all antique silverware immediately after use. Don’t let food sit on flatware, which may cause corrosion or pitting.

Tip Three

Never let the silver pieces touch any other type of metal because it leaves hard-to-remove marks on flatware. You can put silver in the same dishwasher load as other metals, just in different flatware compartments.

Tip Four

When cleaning silverware in the dishwasher, use the normal or delicate cycle. Avoid heavy-duty settings and high-temp sanitizing options. Additionally, only use dishwasher detergent without citrus, lemon, or phosphates.

Nelson and Nelson Antiques offers elegant antique sterling silver flatware. Choose from exquisite cutlery to enhance your dining experience. If you have any questions, give us a call today.