Metal finishing Q&As since 1989

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Is there a way to restore shine to 18/8 stainless tableware

I have very good, usable Oneida 18/8 Brahms tableware. The solid knives (not hollow handle) are not as shiny as the hollow handled pieces. Is there a way to restore shininess at home? (toothpaste/baking soda/olive oil?). Anything to avoid? Is there any way to "polish" up my very old pieces (still shiny but to reduce some scratching). I would consider my set in good to excellent condition-especially being 35 years old and being washed in dishwasher. I learned a lot in the previous commentary on 18/8(which Brahms evidently is) and 18/10, which I am considering adding to my collection because Michaelangelo and Brahms are so close in pattern.

Vicki Ravely
use tableware at home - Pasco, Washington, USA
September 2, 2010

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SS can be polished with finest chromium oxide(chrome green pigment)-any better artist shop must have it (try www.talasonline.com/ ). Probably needs lot of elbow grease.
Hope it helps and good luck!

Goran Budija
- Cerovski vrh Croatia
September 7, 2010

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Vicki

You could also try Colgate Tooth Powder. Still requires the same amount of elbow grease. It will restore the shine, but not do much for scratches except for the finest. Works good on glass too.

Willie Alexander
- Colorado Springs, Colorado
September 7, 2010

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As one who has polished thousands of these pieces, you ca only do it with mechanical polishing. Either get a small buff on a clamped high speed drill with compound or take them to a polisher capable of polishing down to a 1" wheel.

Robin Thede
metal finishing - Toronto, Ontario, Canada
October 18, 2010