How to Restore Antique Silver Salt and Pepper Shakers

Antique Glass Shakers

• 1

  Empty the contents of the salt and pepper shakers into the trash can. Tap the back of each shaker with the palm of your hand to release any stuck-on pieces. Don’t worry if you still see particles inside the shakers since you will soak them in water.

• 2

  Soak the shakers in a deep bowl or tub of warm water to loosen stubborn or stuck-on salt or pepper particles and accumulated dirt and debris. Allow the shakers to sit in the water for 10 to 15 minutes.

• 3

  Remove the shakers from the water. Scrub the inside and outside of each shaker with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove stubborn particles and unplug the holes at the top. Maneuver the brush so it cleans the inner edges and sides. Rinse the shakers in warm water to remove any residual debris.

• 4

  Mix baking soda and white vinegar in a container and soak the shakers in it for two to three hours. Use a 1/2-cup vinegar and 2 to 3 tbsp. baking soda. Remove the shakers from the mixture and rinse each one in warm water. Dry the shakers with a soft cloth or terry towel to avoid water spots.

Antique Silver Shakers

• 5

  Empty the contents of the shakers in a trash can before rinsing them in warm water.

• 6

  Apply a pea-sized amount of silver polish onto each shaker's surface and spread it in a circular motion with your gloved finger. Use more polish, if necessary, until the surface is completely covered.

• 7

  Rub the silver polish off the shakers with a clean, soft polishing cloth until you notice the tarnish coming off as well. Continue buffing the surface in a circular motion to remove the tarnish until your antique silver shakers are clean and shiny and take on their original luster.

• 8

  Hold the shakers under running warm water to remove the polish. Use another clean polishing cloth to buff the shakers dry.