If your silver contains small crevices, use a toothbrush or a Q-tip to clean these. You can purchase a cellulose sponge from your local hardware store.
When handling and cleaning your pieces of silver, you may use nitrile gloves (not latex) to prevent fingerprinting and smudging. This cleaning method works best for pieces of jewelry that contain pearls and opaque or clear gemstones.
The paste should be relatively dry, but not powdery. Look for a toothpaste-like consistency.
As you clean your silver, it is normal for the baking soda paste to turn grey.
Alternatively, you can use a Q-tip to clean small crevices if you do not have a spare toothbrush.
Make sure the salt is completely dissolved. If not, the granules may scratch your silver.
Make sure to thoroughly dry pieces of silver that contain small crevices and etchings.
