Frequently Asked Questions

Photo: SilverMateQ: Is it necessary to dilute the cleaner with water?
A: The cleaner comes ready to use. No dilution is required.

Q: How long will this cleaner possibly last?
A: When kept clean by frequent straining, the solution will last indefinitely.

Q: How often can I clean my silver with this solution?
A: As often as desired. Unlimited.

Q: Can I use my dishwasher for my silver?
A: Keep silver out of the dishwasher! It's that Simple! There are three major reasons for keeping your silver out of the "chamber of doom":

  1. Any factory-applied patina will eventually be removed leaving a dull non-reflective surface. The harsh detergent combines with the washers' high cleaning temperature and is much too abrasive for silver.
  2. The high heat on older and or some repaired hollow handled knives will possible force open a thin solder seam or explode the knife blade out of the handle. The results are very expensive to repair.
  3. Washing silver and stainless steel flatware together in the dishwasher will result in black spots on your good silverware. Reason: The two metals have a galvanic (electrical) action when they touch, leaving the spots. The spots can be removed with silver polish.

Q: What is the best way to use the cleaner?
A: The best way, pour cleaner into plastic tub and immerse the piece to be cleaned totally in the liquid, agitate it in the solution. Lift it out to determine if all tarnish is gone. If not, put the piece back in the cleaner. When satisfied with the cleaning action rinse the piece in clear water and dry with a paper towel or soft cloth. Nothing else is required.

Q: Can I clean my jewelry in the silver cleaner?
A: Gold, diamonds, sterling silver jewelry may be safely cleaned in SilverMate® cleaner. It is the finest and absolutely safest cleaner one can use. No other cleaner can make gold and diamonds sparkle, as does SilverMate®. Caution: Never put pearls or any jewelry encrusted with semiprecious stones i.e. turquoise, rubies, onyx, sapphires, lapis, and others in this cleaner. It can bleach their color.

Q: What if my tray is too big to put completely under the cleaner?
A: Assuming the tray "etc." is rectangular in shape put one end in the cleaner and with a cloth or cotton ball wash down the top half with the liquid then, reverse ends (Note: A sponge is not recommended). The purpose is to put ample cleaner on the part that is not immersed. The cleaning action should be completely satisfactory.

Q: Can I use the StainlessMate® on sterling or silver plates?
A: It will do no good. Silver, silver plate and gold require SilverMate® Silver cleaner vice versa. 18/10 Stainless requires StainlessMate®. Following the recommendations of the company produces outstanding results.

Q: Can I clean silver and copper coins in SilverMate® Silver cleaner?
A: All silver coins may be safely cleaned in SilverMate® cleaner. It performs better than any other cleaner on the market. It requires no rubbing and leaves no residual odors, therefore impossible to visually determine coin has been cleaned. The StainlessMate® is remarkable in its ability to clean copper coins. It produces outstanding results.

Q: What if I am not satisfied with the cleaning?
A: Return the cleaner to SilverMate® Company for an absolute money back guarantee.