How to Care for Silver-Plated Cufflinks and Keep Them Shining

By Skultuna I Officiell webbutik – Skultuna 1607 | Published: 2026-10-30

Category: Tips & Care

Learn how to clean, store, and polish silver-plated cufflinks without damaging the plating. Follow these steps to prevent tarnish and keep them shiny for years.

Quick answer

Clean silver-plated cufflinks with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap, dry them immediately, and store them in a dry, airtight space away from moisture and air. Polish gently with a silver cloth to restore shine, but avoid abrasive cleaners that can wear away the thin silver layer.

Why silver-plated cufflinks need different care

Silver-plated cufflinks have a thin layer of silver over a base metal, so they are more delicate than solid silver. Harsh chemicals, abrasive polishes, and even extended exposure to air and moisture can wear down the plating or accelerate tarnish. The goal is to remove tarnish and dirt without stripping the silver layer.

When to clean and when to leave them alone

Clean your cufflinks only when you notice dullness or tarnish. Overcleaning, especially with polish, can gradually thin the plating. For routine maintenance, a quick wipe after each wear is usually enough. Reserve deeper cleaning for times when the surface looks visibly dull or feels tacky.

Step-by-step care for silver-plated cufflinks

Clean after each wear: Wipe the cufflinks with a soft, dry cloth to remove oils and sweat before storing. Avoid using tissue or paper towels, which can scratch the surface. This simple habit prevents tarnish from building up and reduces the need for frequent polishing.
Wash gently when needed: If the cufflinks are dirty, wash them in lukewarm water with a drop of mild dish soap. Use your fingers or a very soft brush to remove grime, then rinse thoroughly and dry immediately with a soft cloth. Never soak them for long periods. Prolonged soaking can weaken the bond between the plating and the base metal, so keep water contact brief.
Polish with a silver cloth: Use a specialized silver polishing cloth to gently rub the surface. These cloths are treated with compounds that remove tarnish without being overly abrasive. Avoid liquid polishes or pastes unless they are explicitly labeled safe for silver plating. Test any polish on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't dull the finish.
Store properly to prevent tarnish: Keep cufflinks in a dry, airtight container or a tarnish-resistant pouch. Add a silica gel packet to absorb moisture if you live in a humid climate. Store them separately from other jewelry to avoid scratches. Air and humidity are the main causes of tarnish, so limiting exposure is key.
Handle with care: Put on cufflinks after applying lotions, perfumes, or hairspray, and remove them before swimming or showering. These products and activities can accelerate tarnish or damage the plating. Chemicals in personal care products can react with the silver layer, so make cufflinks your last accessory to put on and the first to take off.

Product facts

Orbe Manschettknappar - Silver Plated: The Orbe Manschettknappar has a geometric yet soft elliptical shape that is timeless in expression and contemporary in character. The smooth, rounded surfaces are easy to wipe clean, but the distinct shape means you should clean gently around the edges to avoid scratching.
Orbe Manschettknappar - Silver Plated