Is your favorite knife getting rusted? This is not just happening to you; many chefs, hunters, and butchers who love using steel knives face this problem. A single brown spot on your knife is not dangerous, but ignoring the stains can lead to corrosion.
What Causes Kitchen Knives to Rust?
Any steel blade has several causes of rust, but exposure to moisture and humidity in the air is the major reason. An acidic solution and other corrosive metal can also rust the knife. If you do not clean the knife blade after slicing tomatoes or citrus fruits, it can also oxidize steel. Using inappropriate methods or hard substances to remove stains can easily increase rust on steel blades.
How to Clean Rust from Your Knife?
You can use many chemicals, tools, or natural products to remove rust from your knives. Senior chefs and hunters have tested several methods to get rid of the rust from the knives. I have listed all the recommended ways with an infographic to assist you clearly with my research.
- Choose the Suitable Method
- Follow the instructions for a specific method
- Ensure safety precautions, such as wearing gloves
- Thoroughly clean and dry the knife after rust removal
Method #1 – Removing Rust with Baking Soda
You can easily restore your kitchen knife using a handmade baking soda paste. This is cheap and widely used to clean steel blades. You need baking soda, water, and a soft cloth or brush. Follow the instructions to use baking soda for rust removal.
- Make a paste of baking soda with water in the bowl
- Apply this paste on the rusted areas of the knife blade
- Wait for 30-50 minutes to set it on the stains
- Gently scrub the rust using a soft brush or cloth
- Rinse the knife with water and dry thoroughly
- Wash your hands after cleaning knife
If this is not satisfactory for you, then you can move on to the next method to clear all the rusted parts of your knife.
Method #2 – Removing Rust with Whetstone Rust Eraser
Whetstone is normally used to sharpen a kitchen knife, but there is a special type of whetstone. This is known as a whetstone eraser, made of rubber and silicone carbide. Soak your whetstone eraser and the rusted knife in water to let it wet. Rub your knife gently on the eraser from rusted points. Wash the knife and dry it thoroughly.
Additional Methods to Clean Rust with Natural Methods
Using White Vinegar
White vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar, is the fastest way to remove rust from stainless steel knives. This is the only type of vinegar that can be removed without leaving any spot. It contains acetic acid and is a rust remover. It would help if you had white vinegar and a non-scratching brush. Submerge your knife in vinegar for 5-15 minutes, then scrub the blade softly with a brush.
Lemon juice
You can also remove the citrus acid that is naturally present in lemons. You need a lemon, salt, soft cloth, or sponge. Put salt on the rusty areas and squeeze the lemon juice on the salt above the knife’s blade. Let’s wait for 1-2 hours to set it completely. Then, carefully rub the knife blade with a soft sponge or cloth.
Applying a layer of oil or lubricant
Rust occurs when metal comes in contact with air and moisture. It can be prevented by applying lubricant or oil on the metal surface. Oil makes a thin layer on the knife’s surface and stops moisture from reaching out.
Using a potato or onion
It would be best if you had a potato, dish soap, and salt or baking soda.
- Cut a potato into slices.
- Pour dish soap on the potato.
- Sprinkle salt or baking soda and gently rub the knife blade to remove rust.
Rust converter spray
You can use WD-40 spray to clean your steel knife if you are a hunter. Spray it on your pocket knife and leave it for 1-3 hours to completely break the bonds between the rust and metal surfaces. Then, rub the blade with a soft brush or cloth to clean it. It will enhance the protection of your knife for a long time.
Steel wool or abrasive pads
Some think harsh and abrasive materials like steel wool can remove spots on steel. It may work for them sometimes, but experts do not recommend it. So, avoid steel wool and abrasive materials to remove rust, as they may damage your knife’s blade badly.
How to Maintain your Knife to Keep Rust Away?
- Immediately clean your knives after use to prevent rust.
- Store knives in a dry and well-ventilated place.
- Avoid exposing knives to acidic solutions or corrosive materials.
- Always store your knives with a protective sheath.
- Regularly inspect and clean knives for any signs of rust.
Pro Tips
- Avoid using Dishwashers for knives to prevent them from chipping.
- Use a knife block or sheath to store knives safely
When All Else Fails, Grab a New Knife!
If the rust problem persists or the result is unsatisfactory after using all the mentioned methods, it’s best to consult a professional. You can consult a professional rust remover if you’re using an expensive knife and are afraid to lose its sharpness.
In conclusion, you can now remove rust from any knife with the help of baking soda, white vinegar, a whetstone eraser, and many natural products. If you have successfully removed the rust, kindly coat the surface of your knife with any oil or lubricant to secure it from getting rusty again.
If you know of any other way to clear rust from steel knives, kindly inform me of your experience.
FAQs
Is it OK to use a knife with rust on it?
You can cut your food with a rusty knife as it is not harmful, but it looks awkward to use such a knife.
How long should you let WD-40 sit to remove rust?
Leave WD-40 on light rust for 2-3 hours, and 12 hours are enough for heavy rusty parts.
Does Coca-Cola remove rust?
Coke is a carbonated drink containing phosphoric acid, which is why it is also used as a rust remover.