I'm a true novice also to swords and edged weapons. Personally I'm taking the approach that everything gets a light surface cleaning with Ballistol on a sponge or microfiber cloth and then any active rust and heavy tarnish removed (or lightly brightened) with some Autosol on a soft toothbrush or microfiber, which is a light polish, very light abrasive. That seems to get the light surface dirt and active surface rust off but I leave any thing deep or aged patina on it as-is. I dont go deep and don't heavily polish. Another hit of Ballistol for protection then hit and wipe with a light coat of Renaissance wax to finish. Hope that is ok but experts please let me know if anything I should be aware of? At some point it becomes an "it is what it is" approach and acceptance...is this like the Seven Stages of Sword grief maybe?
Cheers!