What to Use

Hagerty's Silversmith Spray Polish ($13) or Hagerty's Silver Foam ($5, www.hagerty-polish.com).

What to Know

Sterling and silver plate should be treated in the same, gentle way. If your piece doesn't clean easily, take it to a professional. And never put silver flatware in the dishwasher. The extreme heat can warp it, and bumping against other metals can leave marks.

Useful Tips

Store silver in acid-free tissue paper or unbleached cotton muslin (found at fabric stores) inside a Ziploc bag. Avoid serving eggs or mayonnaise on silver; the sulfur in them tarnishes it.