How do you remove tarnish from pewter?

For shiny pewter, use a pewter-specific polish. For satin or oxidized pewter, mild soap and water only -- tarnish is part of the look.

Modern pewter is lead-free and food safe. Antique pewter may contain lead and should not be used for food or drink.

Why is my pewter turning dark?

Pewter naturally develops a patina from oxidation. This is normal and considered desirable on antique pieces.

Avoid acidic cleaners on pewter. They can etch the surface and damage the finish. Use mild soap only.

Jewelry

Your pewter will sparkle like the day you got them with the right cleaning technique. Here's the safe way that jewelers recommend.

1
Wash with mild soap
Wash pewter in lukewarm water with a few drops of mild dish soap. Use only your hands or a very soft cloth -- never scrub.
2
Rinse thoroughly
Rinse all soap off completely with clean water. Soap residue dulls pewter quickly.
3
Dry immediately
Dry completely with a soft cloth. Water spots form quickly on pewter if left to air dry.
4
Polish if shiny pewter
For shiny (polished) pewter, apply a small amount of pewter polish with a soft cloth and buff. Never polish satin or oxidized pewter.

TIPIdentify your pewter type before cleaning: shiny (polished), satin (matte), or oxidized (darkened intentionally). Each needs different care.
TIPNever put pewter in the dishwasher -- the heat and harsh detergents damage and dull it.
TIPFor valuable antique pewter, consult an expert before any cleaning beyond basic soap and water.

XUsing silver polish on pewter, which is too abrasive and can scratch the soft metal.
XPutting pewter in the dishwasher, which causes pitting, discoloration, and warping from the heat.
XCleaning oxidized or antique pewter aggressively, which destroys the intentional darkened finish and reduces value.

Never. Dishwasher heat and detergent damage pewter, causing pitting, discoloration, and warping.