How to Care for Silver-Plated Flatware: A Christofle Guide

Many people buy beautiful silver and then save it for special occasions, worried that everyday use will damage it. In fact, the opposite is true: silver that is used and washed regularly develops a soft, warm patina and tarnishes less than silver left untouched in a drawer. Here is how to care for your Christofle silver-plated pieces so they stay beautiful for generations.

What is silver plate?

Christofle has been a leading French silversmith since 1830 and helped popularise silver plating in the nineteenth century, making fine silverware accessible to more households. Silver-plated flatware has a base metal covered with a layer of pure silver. With proper care, it can last a lifetime and be passed down in the family.

Everyday use and washing

• Use it often. Regular use and washing is the best protection against tarnish.
• Rinse soon after meals. Foods such as eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, salt, vinegar and some sauces can stain silver if left on the surface for a long time.
• Hand washing is gentlest. Use warm water, a mild detergent and a soft sponge, then dry immediately with a soft cloth to avoid water spots.
• If you use a dishwasher, choose a mild detergent, avoid lemon-scented and harsh products, and never place silver in the same basket compartment as stainless steel cutlery: contact between the two metals can cause dark spots. Remove the pieces before the drying cycle and dry them by hand.

Removing tarnish

Tarnish is a natural reaction between silver and sulphur in the air. It is not damage and can be removed easily.

• Use a cleaning product made specifically for silver and a soft cloth.
• Never use abrasive powders, scouring pads or steel wool, which scratch the silver layer.
• Rinse and dry carefully after polishing.

Storage

• Store silver completely dry, ideally in an anti-tarnish case or felt-lined drawer.
• Keep pieces separated so they do not scratch each other.
• Avoid rubber bands, newspaper and plastic wrap, which can cause stains and tarnish.

A gift for generations

Because silver-plated flatware is designed to be used every day, it is one of the most meaningful gifts for a wedding, a new home or a christening. Discover our flatware sets, such as the Christofle Mood Asia 24-piece set for 6 and the Carrousel 24-piece set, or a first piece of silver for a newborn, like the Talisman baby spoon or the Charlie Bear baby spoon.

Shop the Christofle collection or contact us with any questions about caring for your pieces.