How to Clean Rust From a Knife With Steel Wool

Rusty knives not only look bad but can spread contaminants as well. No one wants to eat a rusty steak, after all. So cleaning off that scale from your cutlery is not only a smart idea but a necessity. Nipping rust in the bud is easy to do with some steel wool, and some maintenance will stop it from happening again.

Things You'll Need

• Dish towel
• Sink
• Soap
• Steel wool
• Sponge
• Abrasive cleaner

Instructions

1. Clean the knife in the sink using the soap, sponge and water. Get any food or contaminants off the knife first before you start cleaning.

2. Pour some abrasive cleanser onto the knife, and rub it forward and back with the steel wool. You want to rub with the unsharpened side towards you so you don't cut yourself.

3. Rinse off the knife with the water, and repeat the process if necessary. It may be tough to get off some of those stains with the steel wool, but it can be done.

4. Wash, rinse and dry your knives the next time you need them cleaned. Don't let them sit in the water or go through a dishwasher because that's how the rust forms.