How to Care for sterling Silver

Day-to-Day Care for Sterling Silver Jewellery

Our MIM925 collection is crafted from 925 sterling silver — a durable alloy made from 92.5% pure silver blended with other metals for added strength. So, if you’ve ever wondered what is 925 sterling silver? or, is sterling silver real silver?— the answer is yes. It’s genuine silver, designed to be more durable for day-to-day wear.

While sterling silver is loved for its shine and longevity, it does naturally tarnish over time when exposed to air, moisture and chemicals. The good news? A little regular care goes a long way.

To keep your sterling silver looking its best:

• Store your jewellery in a cool, dry place, ideally in its Mimco dust bag or in a jewellery box.
• A polishing cloth should be used on silver pieces to restore shine and remove tarnishing and residue.
• For your plated sterling silver jewellery, you may also use a cloth but it’s important to do so gently. Over-polishing will eventually degrade the plated surface.
• Avoid pulling, catching or bending delicate components.
• Remove jewellery before showering, swimming, exercising or sleeping.
• Avoid direct contact with perfume, lotions, hairspray and cosmetics.
• Wait for skincare and fragrance to dry completely before putting jewellery on.

How to Clean Sterling Silver at Home

Even with regular polishing, sterling silver jewellery will naturally need a deeper clean from time to time. Whether your pieces are looking dull or developing tarnish, there are several easy at-home methods for cleaning silver jewellery and restoring shine.

The Mild Soap & Water Method

For lightly tarnished pieces or everyday build-up, this is the gentlest approach.

You’ll need:

• Warm water
• Mild dish soap
• A soft cloth
• A soft-bristled toothbrush

Simply soak your jewellery in warm, soapy water for a few minutes, gently brush away any residue, then rinse and dry thoroughly. Finish with a polishing cloth to restore shine.

How to Clean Jewellery with Baking Soda

One of the most popular methods of cleaning sterling silver jewellery at home involves baking soda and aluminium foil — especially for heavily tarnished pieces.

You’ll need:

• Baking soda
• Aluminium foil
• Boiling water
• A bowl
• A soft cloth

Line a bowl with aluminium foil (shiny side up), place your jewellery inside, then sprinkle over baking soda. Carefully pour boiling water over the pieces and allow them to soak for a few minutes while the reaction lifts tarnish from the silver. Rinse with cool water, dry thoroughly and polish with a soft cloth.

The Vinegar & Baking Soda Method

For more stubborn tarnishing, combine white vinegar with baking soda for a deeper clean.

Place your jewellery into a bowl of white vinegar, add a few tablespoons of baking soda, then allow the pieces to soak for several hours before rinsing, drying and polishing.

Because this method is more intensive, we recommend avoiding it on plated sterling silver or heavily embellished designs.

Using a Silver Jewellery Cleaner or Polish

For a quick refresh, a dedicated silver jewellery cleaner or silver polish is one of the easiest ways to restore shine and remove surface tarnishing. Simply apply a small amount of product to a soft cloth and gently buff the silver in circular motions, paying extra attention to darker areas or spots with residue buildup.

Once polished, wipe away any excess product with a clean cloth and ensure the piece is completely dry before storing or wearing. If your jewellery features plating, gemstones or intricate detailing, always use a gentle touch and follow the product instructions carefully to avoid over-polishing the surface.

Sterling Silver FAQs

What is sterling silver jewellery?

Sterling silver jewellery is crafted from an alloy consisting of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper. This combination enhances the metal's durability and strength, making it ideal for everyday wear while maintaining the lustrous appearance of pure silver.

Does sterling silver tarnish?

Yes — sterling silver naturally tarnishes over time when exposed to air, moisture and everyday elements. The good news? Tarnishing is only surface-deep and can usually be cleaned easily at home with the right care.

Does sterling silver rust?

No. Sterling silver doesn’t rust like iron-based metals, though it can develop tarnishing that may appear dark or discoloured over time.

Is sterling silver waterproof?

Not entirely. While sterling silver is durable enough for everyday wear, prolonged exposure to water can speed up tarnishing and dull its shine.

Can you wear sterling silver in the shower?

We wouldn’t recommend it. Exposure to water, shampoo, soap and steam — as well as chlorine and salt water — can encourage tarnishing over time.

How do you maintain sterling silver jewellery?

For regular upkeep, gently polish your jewellery using a soft silver polishing cloth or a specialised silver jewellery cleaner to restore shine and remove residue. For harder-to-reach areas, use a soft toothbrush with warm soapy water, then rinse and dry thoroughly.

Is sterling silver hypoallergenic?

In most cases, yes. Sterling silver is generally considered hypoallergenic, making it a great option for sensitive skin.

Final Notes

With the right care routine, sterling silver is designed to be worn, loved and lived in for years to come. A little regular maintenance — from gentle polishing to mindful storage — can help preserve its shine and slow the natural tarnishing process over time.

Whether you’re learning how to clean sterling silver for the first time or simply refreshing your favourite everyday pieces, the key is consistency and a gentle touch. And remember: if your jewellery features gemstones, intricate detailing or particularly stubborn tarnishing, you can always take it to a professional jeweller for a more specialised clean.