Knives get rusting, can they still be used?

[kenny1999]

not used too long and wasn't kept in perfect condition.

Not too many rust, but some brown spot seen,

can I still use them after good clean with water?

Would any tiny metal pieces get into the food?

 

[Addie]

not used too long and wasn't kept in perfect condition.

Not too many rust, but some brown spot seen,

can I still use them after good clean with water?

Would any tiny metal pieces get into the food?

A piece of sandpaper will remove the rust. You cannot let water sit on your knives for any length of time. This must be a knife of carbon steel. They rust in a heartbeat if you don't give them proper care and love.

 

[Steven c]

I’ve found and what works for me is some fine steel wool and a little cooking oil, it’s a lot less abrasive and won’t leave scratches.

If tiny little specks of rust. You could try a green, white, or blue pad with a touch of oil. It may be a simple as just a paper towel and oil.

 

[Vinylhanger]

I have one knife that has a small round spot of rust stain that won't come off. It's been that way for years. Hasn't caused any harm so far.

 

[gadzooks]

I have some really nice old carbon steel knives I've picked up over the years. I rub them with fine steel wool and mineral oil, take off the brown and leave the black. The patina on some of them is beautiful.

 

[fmw]

not used too long and wasn't kept in perfect condition.

Not too many rust, but some brown spot seen,

can I still use them after good clean with water?

Would any tiny metal pieces get into the food?

Sure. Rust is ugly but doesn't affect blade performance. I assume you are using carbon steel blades like I do. Shake some Bar Keeper's Friend on the blade and clean the rust with a Dobie or sponge. If you have carbon steel blades you should allow the knives to develop a patina. Then they will stop rusting.