Finding rust on kitchen knives is both frustrating and even a little frightening. If you've found orange spots on your favorite blade, you might be wondering how to get rust off knives without ruining them. Know what’s fantastic? With just a few simple and safe kitchen techniques, you can readily clear them up. You don’t need to throw your knife away.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to get rust off kitchen knives, why it happens, and how to stop it from coming back. We’ll walk you through easy DIY fixes and guidance from the experts.
What is the Best Way to Get Rust Off Knives?
Method # 1: Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda paste is a classic go-to for surface rust because it softly removes the rust without causing any scratches to the blade itself. All you need is baking soda, water, and a soft-bristle brush or sponge.
Follow these steps:
- Combine 1 tablespoon of baking soda with a little water until you get a thick paste.
- Spread it over the rusty spots.
- Leave the paste on for 10–15 minutes.
- Wipe over with a brush or sponge.
- Thoroughly rinse and ensure that it dries completely.
Use this if you see light rust or orange spots.
Method # 2: White Vinegar Soak
An acid-based rust remover also works when it comes to removing rust from a knife. Vinegar reacts with iron oxide (rust) and loosens it, releasing it from the knife. Use white vinegar, a container, and a sponge.
Follow these steps:
- Soak the rusty part of the knife in white vinegar for 5–10 minutes
-
Scrub the rusted area gently with a sponge or cloth
Rinse with water and dry immediately
Don’t let the knife soak in vinegar for too long, as the liquid can darken the blade.
Method # 3: Lemon Juice and Salt
Natural acidic scrub also works great for removing rust from knives because salt acts as a scrub while lemon juice dissolves the rust. For this method, you need some coarse salt, lemon juice, and a piece of cloth. Follow these steps
- Sprinkle salt over rust spots
- Squeeze lemon juice over it
- Let it sit for 5 minutes
- Rub gently with a cloth or sponge
- Rinse and dry
Works great for quick cleaning and minor rust issues.
Method # 4: Commercial Rust Remover
Commercial rust remover is a store-bought rust-cleaning solution for getting rid of rust on your knife blade. It is specially formulated to dissolve rust fast, ideal for heavy corrosion. You can go for a reliable brand like Bar Keepers Friend, Flitz, or a similar brand.
Follow these steps:
- Apply a small amount of cleaner to a soft cloth
- Rub directly onto the rusted areas
- Follow the product instructions
- Rinse thoroughly and dry
Use this method if home remedies don’t cut it.
Tips for Getting Rust Off Kitchen Knives
At times, it is not what you use, but how you use it. These pointers guide your process of removing rust more safely and effectively.
Tip # 1: Always Dry Your Knives Immediately
Leaving your knives in a wet state, even for a few minutes, may result in rust. Wash your knife and then dry it with a towel. It should not be left to air dry.
Tip # 2: Use a Non-Abrasive Scrub
Avoid steel wool or wire brushes. They may scratch your blade and may cause rust in the future. Rather, take a toothbrush, a sponge, or a microfiber cloth.
Tip # 3: Oil the Blade After Cleaning
Drops of food-safe mineral oil on the blade may prevent it next rusting. Apply some of it with a soft cloth.
Tip # 4: Store Knives Properly
Do not leave your knives in a wet sink or lying loosely in a drawer. Store them in a dry, secure place using a magnetic strip, knife block, or blade cover.
Tip # 5: Know When to Replace
Is the rust coming back over and over, or is the blade so heavily pitted that there is no way to get it back? Then you need to consider replacing it with a rust-resistant knife.
4 Ways to Tell If a Kitchen Knife is Rust-Resistant
Not all knives are made the same. So, here’s how to spot one that will resist rust for the long haul.
1. Look for Stainless or High-Carbon Steel
Stainless steel contains chromium, which helps prevent rust. High-carbon steels, when properly maintained, also resist rust very well.
2. Check the Rockwell Hardness Rating (HRC)
A higher HRC (above 56) means a harder blade that keeps its edge longer and resists corrosion better.
3. Examine the Blade’s Finish
Hammered, laminated, or Damascus finishes aren’t just pretty; they help reduce sticking and moisture, which also fights rust.
4. Read the Care Instructions
Brands that offer rust-resistant knives will often mention cryogenic treatment, lamination, or VG10 steel in their materials.
Best Rust-Resistant Knives From Kyoku
If you’re tired of battling rust and want a long-term solution, it’s time to invest in better blades. Here are the most versatile kitchen knives from Kyoku that I recommend:
1. The 8" Chef Knife | Samurai Series
This 8-inch chef knife blends craftsmanship and performance. The ergonomic Pakkawood handle, laser-engraved blade, and included sharpening stone make it a solid everyday tool.
Made of German 1.4116 High-Carbon Steel, it is perfect for daily chopping, slicing, and meal prep. As a bonus, it comes in a gorgeous gift box; perfect for gifting!
2. 8" Chef Knife | Kage Series
With a rosewood and G10 handle, this 8-inch Kage Series Chef knife feels incredibly balanced. The hammered finish keeps food from sticking, and the edge stays sharp through heavy use. It is made of 3-layer 9Cr18MoV Laminated Steel and is great for home cooks and restaurant pros alike. As a bonus feature, you get an octagonal handle for enhanced grip and control
3. 6" Utility Knife | Shogun Series
The cryogenically treated steel and a razor-sharp 8–12° edge make this 6-inch utility knife a powerhouse. It's perfect for detailed tasks and offers professional-grade durability. Consider this knife if you are interested in a knife for precise slicing, fruit prep, and meat trimming. Bonus: it comes with a lifetime warranty!
Final Thoughts
Learning how to get rust off stainless steel knives is easy once you understand what works and what doesn’t. When you have lighter spots to remove or resistant corrosion, the tips and tricks above will have you back on the ice in no time at all.
However, prevention is superior to cure. By purchasing quality and rust-repellent knives such as Kyoku knives, you will be less hassled, and the knives will last longer.
So, want to upgrade? Visit Kyokuknives now and get the entire line of knives and blades, and say goodbye to rust-stained knives forever!
