When my kids were small and my Mom and Dad would come for a visit I generally did not use the “good silver” that my parents had gifted to me. My Mother, in her only-Ann-would-say-that-way would ask why it wasn’t being used. “Well,” she’d say, “if it’s tarnished, darling, why aren’t you having your girls polish it?” First of all, why only the girls? And secondly, what?!? Did she forget the constancy of care that small children require? And how that leaves almost no time for oneself, let alone polishing silver? Of course she did. It’s part of her charm. LOL Jump forward to today when I am an empty-nester and have time for such tasks and I still don’t polish all that often (thank you, Bruce). But I do use the “good silver,” and I use it in traditional ways and in ways that you may not expect. So this is our topic for today… and guess what? Sometimes you don’t need to polish at all. Don’t tell my Mom.
Use Old Silver In The Kitchen
Silver-plated and sterling items were given as wedding gifts not that long ago. Teapots, trays, sugars and creamers were all gladly received by brides and grooms in the 50’s and 60’s. They used this silver in their homes. Then these gifts and this practice fell out of favor. But these pieces are still out there. They are readily available at thrift and consignment stores, as well as in your mother’s basement. Polished or unpolished, rather than serving tea to the queen, old silver makes great receptacles for all types of things in the kitchen. You can re-purpose an old silver teapot or pitcher to house your utensils by the stove. Use an old silver sugar bowl for an assortment of teabags by your tea and coffee station. At most shops, like Consignments Ltd., you can pick up these old silver pieces (especially the silver-plated items) for very reasonable prices. And who doesn’t need a little bling in the kitchen?
Use Old Silver For Succulents
Succulents will grow almost anywhere including, if you didn’t know it, in old silver pieces. With or without a little decorative moss, these babies look great on a coffee table or mantel or adorning a sideboard or server. You can also cheat with this idea and use faux succulents, if your thumb is not exactly green.
You Can Use Old Silver In The Bathroom
The bathroom is a great place for old silver. You know how I love a tray, so start there. Then add useful containers to house make-up, Q-tips, cotton balls and brushes. Contain anything and everything that you use on the daily. You will find that in the bathroom silver will tarnish more quickly, but like I said, you don’t need to polish to enjoy old silver in your home.
Insider Tip: If you must polish, try one of my favorite products, Weiman Silver Wipes or read all about them in my recent blog: Short List of The Best Cleaning Products.
And Now For A Little Music Before We Go…
Have a lovely day, my friends. Marianne
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