How to Make Your Own
Sword Cleaning Kit

Making your own basic sword cleaning kit is child’s play, and despite what some websites might try to sell you, shouldn't really cost much more than US$5 tops.

All you really need to create your own basic kit is:

Some Oil (see below)
A lint free soft paper towel
A white lint free cloth
A placemat or newspaper

Oh - and I nearly forgot, you'll also need yourself a sword to clean as well... ;-)

What Oil to put in your Sword Cleaning Kit?

When it comes to selecting which oil to use, personally I like to use basic machine oil (such as 3 in 1, Rem Oil or Sewing Machine Oil). I used to use Hanwei sword oil - however it really isn't necessary and I've never had a bottle with the nozzle that doesn't break before I get half way through it...

Using Your Sword Cleaning Kit

Firstly, give the blade a good wipe down with the soft lint free paper towel to remove any dust and oil. Your sword should be perfectly dry and clean before oiling.

Then simply add a little oil to your cleaning cloth, which in general should be just enough oil to give the sword a slight gleam when held up to the light.

If you apply too much, you’ll actually end up trapping evil moisture attracting dust particles on the blade and end up with nasty little rust spots all over the sword, so put just enough to give your sword a very light coating - and wipe away the excess with a dry part of your cleaning cloth.

This procedure should be repeated at least monthly, though depending on how humid your climate is you may need to repeat it more frequently (up to once a week). The basic principle is to inspect your swords frequently so you get an idea of when the original application starts to dry up, so many people recommend that you start out oiling more frequently than might be necessary and then you'll have a good indication as to how long the oil is going to last.

Oh yes, and don't forget to give your sword a good once over with your sword cleaning kit after each time it is used! :-)

Other Alternatives to consider

Some people like the long term protection of a silicon/silicone impregnated cloth (such as "Tuf Cloth" or "Kleen Bore"), simply because they lasts longer than oils, are very low maintenance and each application adds another protective layer. As such, it's a good 'lazy mans' alternative to oiling - sometimes known as the "dirty secret of sword collectors".

Tuf-Cloth (12" x 12"/144 sq. in.) Revolutionary protection against rust, friction and wear for knives, firearms and all kinds of sports gear. A superior alternative to oil and silicone rags. Tuf-Cloth provides long lasting, lint free cleaning, lubrication and ... List Price: $10.95* Our Price:$7.95 You Save: $3.00 (38%)

The only drawback is that it leaves a slight messy film on your hands, but this can be avoided by just wearing rubber gloves when handling it. You can pick these beauties up online and also at most gun shops, sports stores, etc for under US$10...

For even longer term protection, you might want to consider stocking your sword cleaning kit with a product called "Renaissance Wax".

It is also an extremely popular choice for sword collectors...

While it is a little bit expensive, a little goes a long way with this stuff, and it is a fantastic choice for long term low maintenance rust prevention.

Renaissance Wax tends to be quite expensive at most online sword sellers, often selling for around $40 for a 200ml canister.

However the cheapest place to buy it online is from Kult of Athena where you can pick up a 200ml canister for just US$22 (and a 65ml one for $16).