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Tarn-X® Tarnish Remover
With CLR's array of cleaning solutions, understanding application and ingredients is key. Below are FAQs addressing common concerns and usage instructions for our products. Ensure optimal results by familiarizing yourself with these guidelines.
How do you dispose of Tarn-X Tarnish Remover?
Never dispose of Tarn-X in your sink, toilet or storm sewer. Contact your local or state government environmental control agency for disposal guidance.
How do I remove Tarn-X discoloration from stainless steel?
While we don’t have a solution for this, to attempt to remove the stain, immediately clean the discolored area with baking soda, applied with cold water and a soft rag. Additionally, other customers who’ve accidentally had our Tarn-X Tarnish Remover come into contact with stainless steel have told us that liquid household kitchen cleansers (such as Cerama-Bryte® or Bar Keepers Friend®) have remedied this.
How do I use Tarn-X?
Prior to using Tarn-X, use soap and hot water to remove any dirt or grime. Rinse with cold water and wipe dry before using Tarn-X. While wearing household rubber gloves, dip a cotton ball or soft cloth in Tarn-X and wipe on tarnished areas. For larger items, apply full strength Tarn-X to about 1/3 of article at a time, then rinse thoroughly. For heavily tarnished pieces, repeat the above process until all tarnish is dissolved. Tarn-X only removes tarnish. Always apply a silver polish after using Tarn-X Tarnish Remover for optimum shine, luster and help protect your silver from tarnishing quickly. After using Tarn-X, rinse immediately with cold water and hand dry with a soft cloth. Never leave Tarn-X on anything longer than two minutes and always test Tarn-X on a small area before cleaning the entire piece. Clean spills immediately. Some laminated surfaces (counter tops) are coated with a synthetic material which may be affected by Tarn-X. Keep Tarn-X away from stainless steel.
Is Tarn-X safe to use on stainless steel?
Tarn-X should never be used on or near stainless steel, as it may stain or discolor it. This includes stainless steel flatware and sinks.
Is Tarn-X safe to use on brass?
We do not recommend using Tarn-X on brass. The active ingredients in Tarn-X are not compatible with the components of brass (copper and zinc). We recommend using only those products specifically formulated to be safe on brass.
Why did my copper darken or discolor after using Tarn-X?
The Tarn-X was probably left on too long and/or allowed to dry. To remove the discoloration, use a copper cream or polish and follow the directions to restore the shine.
Why did my silver darken or discolor after using Tarn-X?
Silver may turn golden or dark gray in color if Tarn-X is left on too long and/or is allowed to dry on the silver.
To remove the discoloration, fill a small bowl with 1/2 warm water, 1/2 Tarn-X and two drops of dish soap (Palmolive, Joy, etc.). With a soft clean cloth, wash the item with the mixture and rinse with cold clean water immediately. Dry the item off with a soft clean cloth. As a final step, apply a silver polish, to protect the item. This should restore your piece to its original condition. For large items, make sure you clean about 1/3 of the item at a time.
Why does Tarn-X have a mild "chemical odor"?
The odor is the active ingredients in Tarn-X coming into contact with tarnish. This indicates that the tarnish, which is sulfur, is actually being removed with Tarn-X.
Can I soak an item in Tarn-X?
We recommend using a cotton ball or soft cloth for the best application. However, dipping smaller items (such as sterling silver jewelry) may be easier. It is important to rinse with cold water IMMEDIATELY and do not let Tarn-X dry. Never keep Tarn-X on an item longer than a maximum of two minutes.
Can I use Tarn-X on my knives?
Only if your knives are silver or silver plated. Use caution! Your knives may appear to be "silver", but have stainless steel blades with silver-plated handles. If Tarn-X is used on the stainless steel blade, it will discolor it. Look on the blade of your knife for silver or stainless steel stamp or contact the manufacturer. If in doubt, test in a small, hidden area. See the following question for possibly correcting this problem.
What is 'artificially oxidized silver' and how can I identify it?
Artificially oxidized silver is silver that has gone through a chemical treatment to alter its look and luster. It gives silver a smoky, almost blackened look. Do NOT use Tarn-X on artificially oxidized silver, as it will remove the artificial oxidation treatment from the silver.
What can I do if I left Tarn-X on too long?
If Tarn-X is left on too long and is allowed to dry, it may discolor. Silver may turn golden, cloudy or dark gray in color if Tarn-X is left on too long and/or is allowed to dry on the silver.
To remove the discoloration, fill a small bowl with 1/2 warm water, 1/2 Tarn-X and two drops of dish soap (Palmolive, Joy, etc.). With a soft clean cloth, wash the item with the mixture and rinse with cold clean water immediately. Dry the item off with a soft clean cloth. As a final step, apply a silver polish, to protect the item. This should restore your piece to its original condition. For large items, make sure you clean about 1/3 of the item at a time.
How important is it to rinse an item after using Tarn-X?
Rinsing with cold water IMMEDIATELY after use is one of the most important steps. If Tarn-X is not completely rinsed off, it may darken or discolor your silver. When cleaning multiple items, always thoroughly rinse and towel dry each piece before continuing to the next item.
What types of metals can I clean with Tarn-X?
Tarn-X will clean sterling silver, silver plate, platinum, copper, gold and even diamonds. Do not use Tarn-X on poorly plated silver, silver that has scratched or marred surfaces or any item that is not in good condition. Do not mix gold and silver items together when cleaning with Tarn-X.
Does Tarn-X harm clothing?
Yes. When working with Tarn-X products avoid contact with your clothing. Tarn-X can stain or discolor fabrics/clothing.
