Category Archives: care and preservation

Caring for Silver

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Now that the holidays are over, people are returning their family silver to storage.  I thought this would be a good time to address the proper care for silver. Contrary to popular belief, silver does not need constant cleaning and the need to do so can be reduced by regular dusting with a soft cloth or washing with warm soapy water, rinsing and drying well. Some other things to keep in mind:

  • Silver should not be put in the dishwasher
  • When not in use or on display it will tarnish less if kept wrapped in acid-free tissue paper or undyed cotton or linen and kept in airtight conditions.
  • Tarnishing is caused by a number of factors including humidity, sulphurous foods such as egg yolks and fingerprints which can leave deposits.
  • To remove tarnish it is best to use cloths impregnated with silver foam or polish (never use polish intended for copper or brass).
  • Silver dip, which can be wiped on large objects, should not be used too many times.
  • Rinse after cleaning and dry carefully.
  • Never use wire or abrasive cloth to remove stains as they will scratch the surface.
  • Polish plated objects as seldom as possible as a small amount of silver will be removed over time and eventually wear away, exposing the metal core.
  • Silver will corrode as a result of being in contact with salt.  Salt cellars should be gilt or glass lined and the salt should be removed from them after use.

If you have any other topics you would like addressed, feel free to let Courtney Price Design know!

Caring For Your Marble Countertops

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Marble is an elegant surface that updates the look of any kitchen. It is the preferred counter material for many bakers because of the ease of rolling out pastries and dough on its surface.

However, you should know that it requires more maintenance than granite because it is a softer and more porous material - making it susceptible to stains, cracks, scratches, or dulling of the shine. Not to worry though– with a little knowledge and discipline, your investment will be protected.

The most important thing to remember:  seal marble countertops at least once a year. You will know if they need resealing if water fails to bead up when splashed on the surface.  Sealing prevents stains and damage.

 

Ways to avoid damaging the surface:

  • remember that acids are the enemy. that means anything citrus, tomatoes (even ketchup), vinegar, soda, oils, cleaning chemicals.  These substances can erode, stain or cloud the surface.
  • do not use regular cleaning products that can scratch the surface over time, and do not ever use abrasive cleaners or powders, or abrasive scrubbers like steel wool– they will damage the finish. Dust weekly with a soft microfiber cloth and use a pH-neutral cleaner designed for marble. Your countertop company will be happy to recommend a solution.
  • wipe up any spills immediately, then wipe the area with a little water and dry immediately. Spills that are left to absorb into the counter CAN eventually lead to cracks.
  • never allow wet dishes, glasses or water to stand on a marble countertop for any length of time. Water will seep into the stone and leave a permanent ring to remind you where the water was— removable only by professional polishing.

Has this scared you away from ever having marble counters? I hope not. As long as you know the rules of the territory, your marble will remain beautiful for many years.  And there is always the school of thought among Europeans that scratches, scrapes and stains over time create a patina that adds character and witness to the use of the kitchen… it’s a perspective worth considering.

If you have any topics you would like to read about, be sure to let Courtney Price Design know! Have a great day-