Washing Sterling Silver in the Dishwasher

I want to use my sterling silverware for Thanksgiving. I used to always wash my silverware in the dishwasher in one place isolated from any stainless steel. But now the silverware tarnishes even when isolated. Is there a safe dishwasher soap brand that doesn’t damage silver? Evidently my old dishwasher soap was modified.

Judy
  • Posted by: Judy
  • November 21, 2019
  • 12345 views
  • 5 Comments

5 Comments

Gammy November 22, 2019
Hi Judy, I use my MIL's sterling as my everyday silver, rather than have it sit unused for 363 days of the year and wash it in my dishwasher daily. I find that the pieces I use constantly tarnish less than the specialized pieces that are used infrequently. I use Cascade liquid, not the pods, whichever Cascade is on sale at the time. I do keep the silver and stainless separate when washing. I will read Nancy's referenced reviews and see how Cascade stacks up. Perhaps there is something in your water that is encouraging tarnish? On a slightly different note, be aware using any of the popular pods in your dishwasher or washing machine. I have had repair men tell me that many times the plastic coating does not completely dissolve and will build up and clog your machine's filter. I have gone back to measuring all detergents.
 
Nancy November 22, 2019
Gammy - good points, thanks. Nancy
 
Judy November 22, 2019
Thank you. I will try Cascade Liquid. Happy Thanksgiving.
 
Nancy November 22, 2019
Judy - yes, I learned and do the same - never mix silver & stainless in same load of dishwasher.
Here's a link for one recommended detergent. I haven't tried it but this is a 3rd party review, not a manufacturer promotion.
Also, have you tried just polishing it this time BEFORE Thanksgiving, then washing it AFTER? Might work, Nancy
https://www.everydaycheapskate.com/cleaning/house-rules-cleaning-silver-dishwasher/
 
Gammy November 22, 2019
Thanks, Nancy for the link on cleaning silver. Thrilled that the Cascade I use is the one recommended. "Cascade Complete is an excellent choice as it is phosphate-free with no lemon or citrus added." I do use the liquid formulation, not the powder shown in the photo in the link.
 
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