A foil ball in the dishwasher makes silverware shine
The hack
Toss a balled-up sheet of aluminum foil in the cutlery basket for sparkling, tarnish-free silverware.
Where it's popular: Good Housekeeping: the viral foil-ball hack · Reader’s Digest tried it
Scout's verdict
The real chemistry (foil + baking soda + hot water reverses silver tarnish) needs direct contact in a soak. A loose ball in the basket gives inconsistent results, and it does nothing for stainless flatware, which most families own.
Evidence: Good Housekeeping · Nine.com.au: cleaning expert debunks it
Bottom line: Skip, unless you own real silver. Scout will run a stainless vs. silver test.
⚠️ Safety
Foil bits can block the drain or spray arm. Don’t wash real silver next to stainless in the dishwasher.
Stock up for this hack
| Item | Best unit price now | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Reynolds Wrap Aluminum Foil | 7.9¢/sq ft at Kroger (reference store) | Regular price |
| Arm & Hammer Baking Soda | $1.33/lb at Kroger (reference store) | Stock up · 26% off |
Paid links: we may earn a commission. Kroger prices are live from a Cincinnati, OH reference store. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Not medical advice.