Question:  I have silver utensils are normally used with Dairy products. They were subsequently exposed to meat. I have not used these utensils for the past 4 months. Can I now begin using them again for dairy foods?

Answer: Assuming the utensil was used with hot meat (hot is defined as “too hot for a child to handle”), then the utensil cannot be used unless it is “koshered.” To do that, first make sure the utensil is perfectly clean—pay special attention to cracks and crevices. Then take a clean pot (either meat or dairy, as long as it is clean and has not been used in the 24 hours) that is big enough for the utensil to fit in. Fill it with water, and bring it to a boil (this is best done by covering the pot.) After the water reaches the boiling point, immerse the utensil in the hot water, waiting for it to come to a boil again. Remove the utensil (with a tongs, or use an onion bag) and rinse. Now you again use it for dairy.

Rabbi Dovid Shenker