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Baking soda is an alkaline component with properties that make it a mild abrasive. Although it is used in various cleaning tasks, there is one use that few know about and is extremely useful.
It is the method for cleaning and restoring shine to silver jewelry, a result that can be obtained by mixing baking soda, salt, and hot water over a piece of aluminum foil.
What is the purpose of mixing baking soda, salt, and water in aluminum foil
Mixing baking soda, salt and very hot water in a container lined with aluminum foil serves to clean and restore shine to silver jewelry and objects. Among the things that can be cleaned are:
- Rings
- Necklaces
- Bracelets
- Cutlery
- Coins
This method takes advantage of the electrochemical reaction that helps remove the dark layer of silver sulfide that appears on these objects over time due to exposure to air and sulfur-containing compounds.
Why use aluminum foil?
Aluminum foil has a key role in this method. This is because when silver comes into contact with the baking soda mixture, salt, and hot water, an electrochemical reaction occurs.
It is in this process that the aluminum acts as the reactive metal and gives electrons to the silver sulfide, which turns back into metallic silver. The sulfur leaves the surface of the jewelry and is transferred to the aluminum.
In this sense, it is not the baking soda and salt that clean, but rather they work together and help the water conduct electricity better to facilitate the exchange of electrons.
How to mix baking soda, salt, and water in aluminum foil
To do it correctly, it is necessary to follow these steps:
First, gather the following materials:
- One sheet of aluminum foil
- 1 tablespoon of baking soda
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 2 to 4 cups (500 ml to 1 liter) of very hot water
Then follow these steps:
- Line a container with the aluminum foil, placing the shiny side facing up.
- Put the silver jewelry on top of the aluminum foil.
- Add the baking soda and salt.
- Pour in the hot water until the jewelry is completely submerged.
- Let it soak for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Remove the jewelry, rinse it thoroughly with clean water, and dry it with a soft cloth.
The procedure can be repeated a second time if the jewelry is too tarnished.
Why they recommend mixing baking soda, salt, and water in aluminum foil
This method is highly recommended because it allows the silver to regain its shine without the need to rub vigorously or risk scratching it.
One important detail to keep in mind is that this method works for:
- Solid silver
- Sterling silver
It is not recommended for:
- Jewelry with pearls
- Jewelry with opals
- Jewelry with turquoise
- Jewelry with coral
- Jewelry with amber
- Emerald jewelry
- Silver-plated jewelry