How to Clean Flatware — 5 Easy Ways to an Elegant Shine
Expert advice on what you can do to make your flatware to sparkle before guests arrive


Flatware is a key component of any household. Whether you use it daily as a family or as a special set for special occasions, it’s important to keep it properly clean and sparkling.
Flatware sets can easily become tarnished or damaged if they are not maintained or cared for. "Keeping flatware clean is essential for hygiene, aesthetics, and longevity. Properly cleaned flatware ensures food safety and enhances the dining experience by maintaining its shine and elegance. Improper cleaning methods can lead to scratches, tarnish, or even corrosion, shortening the lifespan of your utensils," explains Muffetta Krueger from Muffetta’s Housekeeping.
To ensure your flatware stays clean and will last for a long time, we've put together a step-by-step guide below with help from the cleaning experts.
What You'll Need
Whether you're looking to polish silverware or clean your gorgeous gold-plated flatware, having the right tools at hand it key. Here's what you'll need to get started:
- Warm water
- Mild dish soap.
- Soft sponge or cloth.
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Soft-bristled toothbrush: Just a standard Colgate Extra Clean toothbrush from Walmart will do.
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Specialized flatware polish or cleaner: Like this Weiman stainless steel cleaner from Walmart.
Shop Some of Our Favorites
Price: $13.94, Was: $14,67
How To Clean Flatware
A basic table setting trick is to ensure all it holds is gleaming with cleanliness. So before setting your table, let's make sure your flatware is looking its best.
Here is a simple step-by-step guide:
Step 1 - Pre-Rinse the Flatware: Remove any food residue from your flatware immediately after use. Rinsing promptly prevents stains and makes cleaning a lot easier.
Step 2- Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Mix warm water and mild dish soap in a basin. This solution is safe for most types of flatware.
Step 3 - Wash the Flatware: Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently scrub each piece of flatware. Avoid abrasive pads that can scratch the surface.
Step 4 - Rinse Thoroughly: Next, rinse each item under clean water to remove the soap residue completely.
Step 5- Dry Promptly: Finally, use a microfiber cloth to dry flatware immediately after rinsing. This prevents water spots and tarnishes.
To ensure your flatware stands the test of time, it’s important to maintain it. Try to give your flatware a deep clean every few weeks to stay on top of any tarnishing. Also, remember to check whether or not your flatware is dishwasher safe and abide by the rules.
"If your flatware is stainless steel, it can go in the dishwasher. The best method is to load them with the handles down to ensure the important flatware surface is cleaned thoroughly," explains Ben Soreff from H2H Organizing.
FAQs
It's the time of year, and having a set household cleaning schedule is a must. It sets you up to tackle the tasks you need when you need it. In this case, it's to ensure your flatware is clean and gleaming before guests arrive.
What Are The Different Types Of Flatware?
Understanding your flatware material is crucial to choosing the right cleaning method. Muffetta Krueger from Muffetta’s Housekeeping has outlined the different types of flatware below.
Stainless Steel: Durable and resistant to rust but prone to water spots.
Silver-Plated: Requires gentle care to prevent damage and tarnishing.
Pewter or Antique: Delicate and often needs professional cleaning to avoid harm.
Gold-plated or Decorative: Specific cleaning requirements to preserve the finish. Don't put this type of flatware in the dishwasher.
Be The First To Know
The Livingetc newsletter is your shortcut to the now and the next in home design. Subscribe today to receive a stunning free 200-page book of the best homes from around the world.
Becca Cullum-Green is a freelance interiors content creator and stylist. She fell in love with interiors when she landed her first job as an editorial assistant at a leading UK homes magazine fresh out of university. You can find her renovating her 19th-century cottage in the Suffolk countryside, consciously trying not to paint every wall with Farrow and Ball’s ‘Pitch Black’. Her signature style is a mix of modern design with traditional characteristics. She has previously worked for House Beautiful, Grand Designs, Good Housekeeping, Red, Good Homes and more.
-
These Privacy Screens From QVC Are Just What You Need to Make Any Outdoor Space Feel More Secluded
Your outdoor space should feel like a secluded sanctuary. With privacy screens from QVC, you can make that happen in the most stylish way possible
By Devin Toolen Published
-
70s Color Palettes That Work for 2025 — 4 Designer-Approved Color 'Recipes' That Feel Modern Enough for Homes Today
It's time to bring out your paisley print and disco shoes — the golden yellows, olive greens, and deep purples of 70s color palettes are making a comeback
By Olivia Wolfe Published
-
The 52 Weeks Decluttering Challenge Is a Year-Long Process to Tidying Your Home — Here's How to Complete It
If you appreciate an in-depth, detailed approach to home organization, this 52 week challenge will help you maintain a consistently tidy living space.
By Amiya Baratan Published
-
Burning Palo Santo Is the Scenting Ritual Feng Shui Practitioners Recommend for Home Healing — These Are the Benefits
Burning palo santo isn't just about infusing your home with that classic woody aroma, it's also about cleansing in Feng Shui. And here's why you should try it.
By Amiya Baratan Published
-
Should You Buy an IKEA Kitchen? Here's What a Professional Designer Thinks of This Budget Kitchen Brand
Are IKEA kitchens worth it? We weigh up the pros and cons of the Swedish furniture brand's kitchen offering, so you know what to expect
By Faiza Saqib Published
-
Balcony Storage Ideas — 6 Concepts to Transform Your Deck into an Organized Outdoor Space
If you have a balcony holding outdoor gear and miscellaneous items, these expert tips will make sure your belongings are organized with nifty storage solutions.
By Amiya Baratan Published
-
5 Things That Are Disrupting Your Garden's Feng Shui That You Might Not Know About
If you're interested in getting your garden Feng Shui ready for spring, adopt these expert dos now. Also, remember to avoid the don'ts for a harmonious space.
By Amiya Baratan Published
-
8 Actually-Stylish Utility Room Countertop Ideas — Because, Yes It Needs to Be Practical, But You Want It to Look Good, Too
Layouts and materials that will make your daily chores more enjoyable
By Seraphina Kyprios Published
-
6 Easy Things You Can Do Today to Feng Shui Your Front Door — And Supercharge Your Home's Good Energy
Set the bar for good first impressions by enhancing your front door with the power of Feng Shui. It's simple with these tips from practitioners
By Amiya Baratan Published
-
Heating a Kitchen Should Be Chic and Stylish — Here Are 4 Brands Making a Statement
Transform your kitchen’s heating with these stylish brands
By Seraphina Kyprios Published