Not STA-BIL: The Heavy-Duty Spray To Help Protect Mower Blades From Rust

Rust doesn't just look unsightly — it actively eats through steel and could have a direct impact on the lifespan of your lawn mower blades. So it makes sense to try to protect your blades, and there are a number of products to help you do that. STA-BIL, which is perhaps best known for its fuel stabilizer, produces Blade Guard and Rust Stopper, either of which might do the trick. But another option is Amsoil Heavy-Duty Metal Protector, and it may have advantages over STA-BIL's products.

STA-BIL Blade Protector appears to be primarily for cleaning, lubricating, and reducing blade wear. All good ideas, and it does contain a rust inhibitor, but the problem is that the liquid itself does not dry. The action of the lawn mower blades spinning might throw it off, meaning regular application is required. On the other hand, if it does cling, it could mean grass clippings get stuck to it. There's the same potential issue with Rust Stopper, which, according to STA-BIL, leaves an oily coating.

By contrast, Amsoil Heavy-Duty Metal Protector dries after application, producing a durable, waxy skin. In some cases, it can last several years, per the manufacturer, so it's not one of those maintenance tasks you need to do after every mow.

Amsoil is designed to be used on most metal surfaces and, according to reviews, is frequently used to protect the underbody and chassis of vehicles. If it's effective in the often harsh environment of the open road, it should do a reasonable job of resisting the abrasive effects of grass clippings, and Amsoil specifically recommends it for protecting lawn mower blades and decks.

Most experts suggest you remove your lawn mower blades before sharpening, and that seems like the ideal time to apply Amsoil when you can easily get to both sides. Although spraying is easy, precaution is necessary. According to the label, Amsoil Heavy-Duty Metal Protector is flammable, and it's toxic if inhaled or swallowed. So you should work somewhere with plenty of ventilation and stay well away from naked flames. It's also a good idea to keep kids and pets away from the area.

To be fair, STA-BIL is a well-known, reputable brand that makes a variety of popular products, and both Blade Guard and Rust Stopper can provide solutions to a number of garden tool issues. However, when the focus is on stopping rust on your lawn mower blades, Amsoil Heavy-Duty Metal Protector is an alternative that's certainly worth considering. It seems to avoid the problem of clippings sticking and offers longer-lasting protection. That said, Amsoil is petroleum-based, so those concerned about sustainability might want to look for a greener alternative — there is one product to prevent blade corrosion that comes from wool.