How to Clean Pewter
How to clean your pewter
One of the final things the artisans at Amos Pewter do with a piece before it is ready for purchase is to polish it to pewter’s signature shine. Over time and with handling, this shine will fade and the pewter will become darker. This warm, antique-looking finish has character of its own but if you would like to add some shine back to your pieces, the following tips will help.
What is Pewter?
Pewter is an alloy, made up mainly of tin with small amounts of bismuth, copper and antimony. Unlike some other metals, pewter does not tarnish or rust and generally requires little maintenance; however, as noted above, it does develop a darker layer over time and the more often it is handled. Additionally, although it is a very durable metal, it is soft and so can be scratched.
Is Pewter Food-Safe?
Our pewter is lead-free, and entirely food-safe. Amos Pewter tableware designs are food-safe.




Getting the shine back!
With a little elbow grease and common household ingredients, the shine can be brought back to your pewter pieces.
• The most basic way to clean pewter in order to remove dirt, oils, food, etc. is to wash it regularly with hot water and dish soap. Submerge the piece in soapy water and gently clean with a soft cloth or sponge. For pieces with a textured surface, a soft-bristled toothbrush can be used. Rinse well and then dry immediately with a microfibre cloth to avoid water spots and a dull finish.
• For more shine, ultra-fine steel wool may be used. Follow the grain of the pewter rather than going in circles to avoid scratches.
• In order to remove the darker layer that results from oxidation over time, a pewter polish may be used. Only use polish that is indicated as safe for pewter on the label such as Brasso or Cape Cod Metal Polishing Cloths. Be aware that silver polish can damage the surface of pewter pieces. Homemade polish can be made by combining dishwashing liquid and baking soda. Apply the polish with a soft cloth, leave for a few minutes, then gently buff off. Rinse with hot water and dry immediately.
Protecting your pewter
• Do not put pewter pieces in the dishwasher. The dishwashing detergent may be abrasive and scratch or dull the surface. As well, they would be easily scratched by other objects in the dishwasher.
• Keep pewter away from heat sources – it starts to become soft at relatively low temperatures (470°F).
• Store pewter pieces separately from each other or place a soft cloth between pieces to avoid scratches.
• Avoid acidic foods on our tableware pieces and do not use them for food storage.
Watch our Artisans at Work
Explore behind the scenes of our Mahone Bay workshop with this short film showcasing the talents of our artisans in creating a "live cast" pendant.
The artisans at Amos Pewter are proud to be keepers of time-honoured pewter practices and methods while at the same time offering innovative designs inspired by nature and our beautiful coastal surroundings.
Our artisans carefully ladle hot, free-flowing molten pewter from the melting pot and capture it in a spinning mould formed from a wax sculpture carved in detail to mirror the original hand-drawn design. Once removed from the mould, each piece is carefully hand-finished in a process that ensures excellence in craftsmanship.
Each piece of pewter that leaves our shelves is thoughtfully chosen by someone with a particular sentiment or memory in mind. We have been fortunate to have many customers share stories of our pewter designs with us. Beginnings and endings. Laughter and tears. Milestones and memories. We are honoured to play a part in so many lives.
Amos Pewter was the first artisan shop in Nova Scotia to become a member of the international Economusee network whose mission is to showcase traditional trades and skills. We are located in open studios in scenic Mahone Bay, on the vibrant Halifax Waterfront, picturesque Peggy's Cove and at lively Peake's Quay in Charlottetown, P.E.I. Take part in our hands-on experience where you can finish and personalize your own pewter keepsake an experience, uniquely Amos.