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How to Clean Saw Blades

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published November 14, 2024

Saw blades are essential tools in construction and woodwork. However, they can become rusty and dull after prolonged use, reducing their lifespan and performance. This makes it important to clean and maintain saw blades regularly. This guide will show you how to clean saw blades.

Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Preparation Before You Begin

Before you learn how to clean a rusty saw blade few things you should be prepared with for any type of saw.

  • Wear protective gloves and goggles to protect from the cleanser and from sharp blades.
  • Remove the blade from the handle using a wrench.
  • Look for any chips or bent teeth on the blade. File them later after cleaning. If there is too much damage to the teeth, it is better to replace the blade.

Caution

Make sure the saw is unplugged before removing the blade.

How to Clean Saw Blades

This is a step-by-step and easy process to learn how to clean a hand saw blade or a circular blade.

Removing Dust

If your blade has gathered dirt after constant use, remove it first. Carefully remove sawdust and debris from the blade with a wire brush or a compressed air can. This will help you see any chips and identify the areas that are greasy and need deep cleaning.

Soak the Blade

Once the upper layer has been removed, it's time to start deep cleaning.

  • Get a normal plastic container that is big enough to put the blade inside.
  • Fill the container with liquid detergent or any house cleaner. If you are using dry detergent, use water to make it into a mixture.
  • Using a brush or spoon, stir the mixture in a circular motion and put the blade inside the container. Make sure to not submerge it fully; just enough to see it clearly.  Make sure not to submerge it fully; just enough to see it clearly.
  • Let it sit for 10 minutes, then flip the blade so that the grease or rust will loosen on both sides. You will start to see black or dark brown color coming off.

Scrubbing

  •  After soaking, scrub the blade gently with a soft bristle brush or wire brush. Dirt accumulates mostly in the teeth and gullets. Rub the blade with the brush on these areas nicely so the grease comes off.
  • Do this for one side and flip the blade to clean the other.
  • Now, remove the blade from the container and look for any spots that are still there which were not cleaned by the brush. For these spots, use a sponge or a scruff pad to clean them.

Rinse and Attach

  • Now, rinse the blade with warm water and wipe it with a terry cloth or a towel thoroughly or it will lead to rusting.
  • Repeat the process if the grease and dirt are still there. 
  • Once you are done with rinsing and cleaning, simply reinstall your blade with a wrench, insert it and plug your saw back into your power supply.

Tip

If you live in humid areas, apply rust protection spray on the blade.

Maintenance and Storage

Now that you've learned how to clean a chainsaw blade, it's crucial to understand how to properly maintain it.

  • Clean the surface or blow dry the blade after every use, whether in woodwork or a construction site. This will increase the blade's lifespan. 
  • Avoid using it on greasy or sticky surfaces. Clean the surface and then use it. 
  • Check for chips or clips on the teeth and file them as they can be dangerous to work with and it will reduce the performance.
  • Use mild detergents to clean and avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the blade.
  • Store it properly in a dry place or away from humid or wet places, which can reduce rusting.

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