ARS blade cleaner – dissolves dried resin
As you prune, sap from trees and plants builds up on the blade and dries into a hard, sticky layer. A dry cloth will not shift it; you need a solvent. The ARS GO-1 blade cleaner is an orange-extract based formula that dissolves the deposit in about 15 seconds. It works on every ARS tool, from pruning shears to saws.
Why wiping it dry is not enough
The dried resin layer causes three problems. It increases friction, so the same branch takes more force. It degrades the quality of the cut, because the blade does not run evenly. And by holding moisture against the steel it can start corrosion, even on hard chrome-plated blades.
The plant health angle
Cleaning is not only good for the tool. Sap left on the blade can carry fungal and bacterial pathogens from one plant to the next, which is a particular risk after cutting a diseased branch. Cleaning the blade after pruning infected material is a basic precaution that many gardeners skip.
How it works
The formula contains a mineral enzyme, water, natural orange extract and a surfactant. It dissolves resin in roughly 15 seconds, after which the blade can be wiped clean. The orange extract does most of the dissolving, which makes it gentler than aggressive industrial solvents. It comes in a 100 ml bottle.
What can it be used on?
The entire ARS range: pruning shears, saws, loppers and hedge shears alike. It is also worth using before sharpening, because dried resin clogs the surface of the diamond sharpeners.
Also in packages
For the VS series, the blade cleaner is available together with a belt holster in a package. See the sets in the pruning shears packages category.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is the blade cleaner for?
Dissolving dried plant sap and resin from the blade. That layer increases friction, degrades cut quality and can cause corrosion.
How often should I use it?
Daily under intensive use, and at the end of every session for occasional pruning. Always after cutting a diseased plant, before the blade touches a healthy one.
Which tools can it be used on?
Pruning shears, saws, loppers and hedge shears alike.
How long does it take to work?
About 15 seconds to dissolve the built-up layer, according to the manufacturer.
