How to Clean and Care for Your Kitchen Shears: A Step-by-Step Guide

Quick Answer

To clean kitchen shears, rinse off debris immediately, wash with warm soapy water by hand, dry thoroughly, and occasionally lubricate the pivot point. For deep cleaning, disassemble the shears if possible. Always dry completely to prevent rust.

Kitchen shears are one of the most-used tools in the kitchen, from snipping herbs to breaking down chicken. But unlike knives, they often get tossed in the sink or drawer, leading to stuck blades, dull edges, and rust.

Proper kitchen shears maintenance doesn’t take long and dramatically extends their life. This guide walks you through each step, from everyday cleaning to deep disassembly, so your kitchen scissors stay sharp and safe for years.

Step 1: Rinse Immediately After Use

Right after you finish cutting, hold the shears under warm running water to remove food particles and juices. This prevents residue from drying onto the blade, which makes cleaning harder and can accelerate corrosion.

If you've cut raw meat or poultry, rinse with hot water and a drop of dish soap to reduce bacterial risk. Don't let the shears soak in the sink; prolonged water exposure increases the chance of rust.

• Rinse promptly, but avoid soaking. Soaking can cause water to seep into the pivot and promote rust.

Step 2: Wash by Hand with Warm Soapy Water

Fill a basin with warm water and a gentle dish soap. Use a soft sponge or cloth to wipe down the blades, handles, and pivot area. Avoid abrasive scrubbers—they can scratch the metal and the protective coating, making the shears more vulnerable to corrosion.

Pay special attention to the joint where food tends to accumulate. Angle the blades open and wash between them thoroughly. Rinse all soap off completely, as soap residue can also attract moisture.

• Check the pivot for buildup. A toothpick can help dislodge stubborn residue gently.

Step 3: Dry Thoroughly—Especially the Pivot

Moisture is the enemy of any steel tool. Dry the shears completely with a clean towel or let them air dry on a dish rack. For the pivot area, use a dry cloth or a hairdryer on a cool setting to ensure no water remains.

If your shears have wooden handles, wipe them dry immediately and avoid immersing them in water, as wood can swell. Always store shears completely dry, either in a drawer block or hung on a magnetic strip.

• Give the pivot a final wipe with a microfiber cloth to remove any lingering moisture.

Step 4: Disassemble for Deep Cleaning

Over time, grime builds up around the screw that connects the two halves. Many kitchen shears, including the Misen Kitchen Shears - Standard, are designed to be disassembled for thorough cleaning. Check if your shears have a screw or a spring-loaded release mechanism.

Remove the screw (or open the lock) and separate the blades. Soak both halves in warm soapy water, scrub gently, and dry each piece separately. This also gives you the chance to inspect the blades for nicks or chips.

If your shears don't disassemble, run a pipe cleaner or a thin brush through the pivot opening. It's not as effective, but still helps remove debris.

• Take a photo of the screw before removing it so you remember how to reassemble.

Step 5: Lubricate the Pivot

After deep cleaning and drying, apply a single drop of food-safe mineral oil or sewing machine oil to the pivot point. Open and close the shears a few times to distribute the oil evenly. Wipe away any excess with a soft cloth.

Lubrication reduces friction, keeps the blades moving smoothly, and creates a barrier against moisture. Do this every few weeks for frequently used shears, or anytime they start to feel stiff.

Avoid using vegetable oils like olive or canola—they can turn sticky and attract dust.

• A drop is enough; too much oil can collect dirt and make things worse.

Step 6: Prevent Rust with Regular Care

Rust develops when moisture sits on unprotected steel. Beyond thorough drying, you can apply a thin layer of food-safe mineral oil to the blades after cleaning. This acts as a protective seal without affecting food safety.

Store shears in a dry environment. Avoid keeping them in a utensil drawer where other wet tools might touch them. A knife block or wall magnet keeps them separated and allows air circulation.

If you notice a small rust spot, gently rub it with a fine abrasive pad or a rust eraser, then clean and dry as usual. Catching rust early prevents it from spreading.

• If you use a dishwasher—even for 'dishwasher-safe' shears—keep them on the top rack and remove them before the drying cycle. Hand washing is still gentler.

Kitchen Shears Care Checklist

1. Rinse after use: Hold under warm water to remove food residue. Checkpoint: Do this immediately after cutting.
2. Wash by hand: Use warm soapy water and a soft sponge. Avoid abrasive scrubbers. Checkpoint: Never soak or put in dishwasher.
3. Dry thoroughly: Towel-dry blades and pivot to prevent rust. Checkpoint: Check the pivot is completely dry.
4. Disassemble periodically: Separate blades and clean the screw area. Checkpoint: Look for nicks or damage.
5. Lubricate pivot: Add a drop of food-safe oil and work it in. Checkpoint: Wipe excess to avoid sticky buildup.

Products That Make Shears Care Easier

• Kitchen Shears - Standard: The Misen Kitchen Shears - Standard are designed to be the multitasker you reach for every day. Whether you're snipping fresh herbs, breaking down chicken, cutting pizza, or opening parchment, these shears handle a wide range of kitchen tasks with ease. Available in multiple color options: Classic Blue, Black, Red, Green, White, and Blue. A well-made pair of shears holds up to frequent cleaning and disassembling, making maintenance easier and extending their life.
• 5" Serrated Knife (AUS-8) - Final Sale - Gray: Our 5-inch serrated knife is designed for everyday slicing tasks, from sandwiches to tomatoes and Sunday bagels. This compact size offers precision and control, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen. While you're caring for your shears, remember to maintain your other cutting tools—a serrated knife also benefits from hand washing and thorough drying.

With just a few minutes of care after each use, your kitchen shears will stay sharp, rust-free, and ready for any task. Hand washing, thorough drying, and occasional lubrication are all it takes to keep your kitchen scissors performing like new for years.