Prevent rust with oil and proper storage

After cleaning tools, apply a thin coat of oil (3-in-1, mineral oil, or camellia oil) and store them in a dry location. For long-term storage, wrap tools in oiled rags or use vapor corrosion inhibitor (VCI) bags or drawer liners.

Why It Works

Rust requires both moisture and oxygen to form. Oil creates a barrier that blocks both, while dry storage reduces ambient humidity exposure. Prevention is far easier than removal.

Tips

• Wipe hand tools with an oily rag after each use — takes 10 seconds and prevents hours of future cleanup
• A silica gel packet in your toolbox absorbs moisture and keeps humidity low
• Camellia oil (tsubaki oil) is the traditional Japanese choice for tool maintenance — non-toxic and long-lasting
• Never store tools in leather pouches long-term — leather retains moisture and accelerates rusting
• A dehumidifier in the workshop keeps ambient humidity below 50%, the threshold for rust formation