How to Store Antique Silver Safely - Shropshire Silver Articles

Antique silver is not only a beautiful collector's item — it's also a delicate material that requires thoughtful care. Whether you've just begun your collection or own several cherished pieces, knowing how to store antique silver properly is essential to preserving its beauty, value, and historical integrity.

At Shropshire Silver, we help collectors protect their treasures for generations to come. Here's our expert guide to storing antique silver safely and correctly.

1. Clean Before You Store

Before placing your silver into storage, always ensure it's clean and dry.

Gently remove dust with a soft, lint-free cloth
If tarnished, clean with a non-abrasive silver polish or cloth specifically designed for silver. Avoid harsh chemicals or dips that may strip detail
Dry thoroughly — moisture is one of silver's biggest enemies

Tip: Never store silver while it's still damp, even slightly.

2. Avoid Exposure to Air and Humidity

Silver tarnishes when exposed to air, especially in humid environments.

Best Practices:

Store silver in airtight containers or tarnish-resistant bags
Use silica gel packets to absorb moisture
Keep storage away from kitchens, bathrooms, or exterior walls where humidity fluctuates

Tip: Don't use plastic wrap — it can trap moisture and contain harmful chemicals.

3. Choose the Right Wrapping Materials

Wrapping silver adds an extra layer of protection, but only if you use the right materials.

Ideal Materials:

Acid-free tissue paper
Anti-tarnish cloths or pouches
Unbleached cotton or muslin
Soft flannel or velvet liners

Avoid:

Newspaper or regular tissue (contains acids)
Rubber bands (they can corrode silver over time)
Wool or felt (unless made specifically for silver)

4. Store Pieces Separately

Silver scratches easily. If items knock against each other in storage, even light contact can leave permanent marks.

To Prevent Scratching:

Wrap each item individually
Use dividers in storage boxes or drawers
For cutlery or flatware, invest in a tarnish-resistant roll or cloth-lined tray

Tip: Place a small piece of anti-tarnish paper or strip in each section of your storage container.

5. Control the Environment

Temperature, humidity, and light can all affect your silver.

Ideal Storage Conditions:

Cool, stable temperature
Low humidity
No direct sunlight

Tip: If you're storing in a display cabinet, choose one with UV-filtering glass and consider adding a dehumidifier.

6. Periodic Inspection and Maintenance

Even in storage, silver should be checked regularly.

Inspect every 6–12 months for tarnish, corrosion, or pest damage
Give stored items a gentle polish if needed
Rewrap with fresh anti-tarnish materials annually

7. Long-Term vs. Short-Term Storage

For short-term (1–2 months), wrapping in acid-free paper and placing in a drawer is fine.

For long-term, invest in archival-quality materials and maintain a stable storage environment.

8. Display with Care

If you like to display your silver, that's fine — just take precautions:

Use enclosed cabinets with soft linings
Avoid placing directly on wood, which can emit tarnish-causing fumes
Rotate pieces in and out of display to limit exposure

In Summary

Caring for antique silver doesn't need to be difficult — but it does require intention. By storing your pieces properly, you protect not only their shine but also their history and value.

At Shropshire Silver, every item we send in The Wrekin Collection is carefully packaged using the same principles we've shared here. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey, safe storage is one of the most valuable investments you can make.