Quck answer
Pewter is a delicate material that can be easily damaged in a dishwasher. To fix pewter that has been ruined in a dishwasher, follow these steps:
1. Remove the pewter items from the dishwasher immediately after the cycle is finished.
2. Gently clean the pewter with warm water and mild dish soap using a soft cloth or sponge.
3. If there are stubborn stains or tarnish, use a pewter cleaner or a paste made of baking soda and water.
4. Rinse the pewter thoroughly with warm water and dry it completely with a soft cloth.
5. Apply a thin layer of pewter polish to restore its shine and protect it from further damage.
6. Store pewter items in a dry and clean place to prevent future tarnish or damage.
Even though pewter doesn’t tarnish like silver, it does tend to oxidize over time, resulting in a dull appearance or, if left unattended, holes. Cleaning pewter items is important for their overall care, but putting them in the dishwasher can cause even more issues.
How to Repair Pewter Damaged in a Dishwasher
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What Causes Pewter to Get Damaged?
The main reason to avoid putting pewter in the dishwasher is the heat! Pewter is a very soft metal with a low melting point of around 400 degrees Fahrenheit, so the hot water in the dishwasher can deform the pieces if they are left in for too long. Alkaline soaps and acidic foods commonly found in dishwashers can also discolor pewter, which is why it’s best to handwash these valuable items.
How to Restore the Finish
If you have already put your pewter piece in the dishwasher, there are methods to restore its finish. The easiest way is to handwash the pieces in warm, soapy water. Let them dry in an upright position to minimize the risk of warping. This affordable and effective method is usually sufficient to maintain the appearance of most pewter items without causing damage. In cases where more effort is needed, emery paper can be used to restore the pewter finish, although this may require multiple sessions to see results. Emery paper can be found at most hardware stores.
To brighten your pewter after cleaning, most pieces can be buffed with a metal polishing cloth. If you want a shinier surface, a store-bought polish like Brasso is a reliable option. Alternatively, you can make your own metal polish at home using inexpensive ingredients. Mix one part white flour with two parts white vinegar and add a pinch of salt. Blend everything together to form a paste. Apply this paste to the surface of your pewter using a cloth and rub it in using circular motions for a few minutes. Let it sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing with warm water.
Important Considerations
Before attempting to restore the appearance of your pewter, it’s important to know what type of finish it has to avoid causing further damage. Polished pewter can be polished, while satin pewter, which has a more matte appearance, can be washed with a mild scrub. Unpolished pewter should never be polished, so stick to occasional soapy baths to keep these pieces in good condition. If you require extensive restoration, it may be best to seek the assistance of a professional in your area.
