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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFor pitch and resin buildup on woodworking cutters, a purpose-made cleaner is the practical starting point; a reusable cleaning station can make handling blades and bits easier, but it still needs cleaner. WOOD Magazine named Empire Blade Saver its top cleaner in a test published July 27, 2016. That is a historical result, not a current head-to-head ranking: the available product information does not establish which cleaner performs best today.
What the 2016 review found
WOOD Magazine tested eight blade-and-bit cleaners along with several home remedies, naming Empire Blade Saver the top cleaner in that comparison. Its named products included Boeshield Blade and Bit, CMT Formula 2050, Lenox Wood Pitch Cleaner, OxiSolv, Pitch RX, Sprayway Saw Cleaner, and Woodcraft Resin Remover. The review also discussed carburetor cleaner, citrus-based cleaner, Formula 409, oven cleaner, and Simple Green. Read WOOD Magazine’s 2016 review.
That test can inform a choice, but it does not establish the relative performance, current formulation, or availability of those products today. Pitch, resin, and adhesive residue can reduce cut quality and make a cutter seem dull; cleaning may help restore performance, but results depend on the cutter and buildup.
Cleaner or cleaning station?
| Option | What it does | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose-made liquid cleaner | Dissolves or loosens pitch, resin, and residue so it can be wiped or brushed away. CMT Formula 2050’s product listing describes use on saw blades, router and drill bits, shaper cutters, planer blades, and other woodworking cutters. CMT Formula 2050 listing. | Confirm compatibility with your tool, follow the current label, and determine whether the product’s corrosion-protection claims fit your needs. |
| Reusable cleaning station | Holds a blade or bit against cleaning pads and can organize accessories. Fine Woodworking’s 2022 review describes the MicroJig BLADECLEAN system’s reservoirs, blade pad, magnetic handle, bit holder, small pads, and brass brush; it says the system works with common cleaner. Fine Woodworking’s review. | It is a handling system, not a substitute for cleaner. Check blade size and bit compatibility, included accessories, storage space, and whether you must supply the fluid. |
The retailer listing for MicroJig BLADECLEAN states compatibility with circular blades up to 12 inches, identifies supported router-bit shanks, and says the system is not compatible with shaper cutters. Verify the current listing and your tool dimensions before buying: MicroJig BLADECLEAN product listing.
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#1 Best Overall
- POWERFUL CLEANING FORMULA: Advanced cleaner that breaks the molecular bond between resin, pitch, rust and dirt, lifting contaminants away from the surface without harsh scrubbing or the use of aggressive citrus-based solvents.
- RUST & CORROSION PROTECTION: Leaves a light protective layer on metal surfaces to help prevent future rust and corrosion, ensuring that saw blades, router bits and other cutting tools continue to perform at their best for longer.
- SAFE WORKSHOP USE: Non-toxic, non-flammable and environmentally responsible formulation provides a safer alternative to traditional cleaners, creating a clean and hazard-free workspace without strong odors or harmful vapors.
- VERSATILE TOOL CARE SOLUTION: Suitable for cleaning saw blades, planer blades, router cutters, chisels, drill bits and files, effectively restoring sharpness and performance across a wide range of woodworking and metalworking tools.
- EASY & FLEXIBLE APPLICATION: Supplied in a convenient pump-action bottle for controlled application, and compatible with dip tanks or ultrasonic cleaners for cleaning multiple tools efficiently with minimal effort and waste.
What current product instructions say
Boeshield Blade & Bit
Boeshield describes this product as a cleaner for resin, gum, and pitch on saw blades, router bits, drill bits, knives, planer blades, and tool tops. Its instructions say to wet the surface, wait 30–60 seconds, then wipe. For heavy deposits, apply a second coat and use a brass-bristle brush. This dwell time is specific to Boeshield’s instructions, not a universal rule for other cleaners. The manufacturer recommends applying T-9 after cleaning for protection. Boeshield Blade & Bit product page.
Other cleaners and accessories
Compare cleaners by supported tool types, label-directed dwell and scrubbing, handling information, and whether a separate rust protectant is needed. Brushes and pads assist with stubborn deposits but do not replace checking compatibility or following the cleaner’s directions. A cleaner that claims some corrosion protection and a separate protectant are not necessarily interchangeable; use each product according to its label.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- POWERFUL CLEANING FORMULA: Advanced cleaner that breaks the molecular bond between resin, pitch, rust and dirt, lifting contaminants away from the surface without harsh scrubbing or the use of aggressive citrus-based solvents.
- RUST & CORROSION PROTECTION: Leaves a light protective layer on metal surfaces to help prevent future rust and corrosion, ensuring that saw blades, router bits and other cutting tools continue to perform at their best for longer.
- SAFE WORKSHOP USE: Non-toxic, non-flammable and environmentally responsible formulation provides a safer alternative to traditional cleaners, creating a clean and hazard-free workspace without strong odors or harmful vapors.
- VERSATILE TOOL CARE SOLUTION: Suitable for cleaning saw blades, planer blades, router cutters, chisels, drill bits and files, effectively restoring sharpness and performance across a wide range of woodworking and metalworking tools.
- EASY & FLEXIBLE APPLICATION: Supplied in a convenient pump-action bottle for controlled application, and compatible with dip tanks or ultrasonic cleaners for cleaning multiple tools efficiently with minimal effort and waste.
Rank #3
- Removes pitch, resin and adhesive residue from any woodworking cutting tools (saw blades and bits).
- Completely non-toxic, non-flammable, certified biodegradable, safe and earth-friendly.
- Do not rinse after cleaning. Provides protection from rust/corrosion. Keeps table saw top rust free.
- Can be applied by spray bottle or used in ultrasonic cleaners and dip tanks.
- This product received a five-star performance rating from Wood Magazine.
Rank #2
- RESTORE CUTTING PERFORMANCE – Blade & Bit removes pitch, resin, gum and sticky buildup from saw blades, router bits, planer knives and other cutting tools so woodworkers can keep valuable equipment performing at its best.
- BUILT FOR WOODWORKING MAINTENANCE – Designed for the residue that collects on cutting tools during regular use, helping maintain cleaner blades and bits while supporting the long-term care of premium shop equipment.
- SIMPLE CLEANING ROUTINE – Thoroughly wet the surface, allow Blade & Bit to work for 30-60 seconds, then wipe dry. For stubborn buildup, use a brass bristle brush as directed and repeat the process if needed.
- PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT – Regular cleaning helps support better tool care and less avoidable replacement. Use Blade & Bit as part of a preventive maintenance routine for saw blades, router bits and other cutting tools.
- RESTORE. PROTECT. PRESERVE. – If rust is present, follow with Rust Free where appropriate; after the surface is clean and dry, apply Boeshield T-9 to compatible metal for long-lasting corrosion protection.
Clean cutters safely and inspect them afterward
- Read the current label and safety data sheet. Some cleaners are flammable or corrosive, and fumes may require gloves, eye protection, ventilation, or respiratory protection. Use the product’s current safety instructions rather than assuming all cleaners handle alike.
- Check piloted router-bit bearings before cleaning. Cleaner can remove bearing lubrication. WOOD Magazine advises removing a bearing that spins freely and replacing one that does not; after cleaning, reinstall and lubricate the bearing.
- Apply cleaner as directed. Observe the specified contact time and use a compatible brush or pad only when the product instructions allow it. Do not transfer one product’s dwell time to another.
- Inspect the cutting edges after cleaning. Residue can make a cutter seem dull, but cleaning does not repair damaged edges. Discard cutters with cracks or chips; WOOD Magazine Staff’s guidance is, “When in doubt, toss it out.”
- Protect cleaned metal from rust. Use a suitable protectant when the cleaner does not provide the protection you need, following both products’ labels.
How to choose for your shop
- For occasional cleanup: choose a cleaner whose label covers your blade or bit material and tool type; a station may be unnecessary if you can safely support the cutter while cleaning.
- For frequent blade and bit maintenance: consider a reusable station if its dimensions and holders fit your cutters and its included pads or brush suit the work. Budget for compatible cleaner separately.
- For heavy deposits: select a product whose instructions specify repeat application or brushing, and use only an appropriate brush. Boeshield’s instructions, for example, permit a second coat and brass-bristle brushing for heavy buildup.
- For rust-prone tools: check whether protection is part of the cleaner’s stated use or whether the manufacturer recommends a separate protectant.
- When comparing named products: treat Empire Blade Saver’s top ranking as the result of WOOD Magazine’s 2016 test alone. The available information does not support a new ranking of current formulas.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
