When you invest in quality knives, you should take proper care of them. Simply tossing them into your cutlery drawer or leaving them in the dish rack after use can cause damage. Sharp blades are also a safety hazard. Let’s explore some tips for the correct handling and storage of your blades.
Knife Care and Maintenance Tips
Proper care of your knives will give you better performance, increase their lifespan, and keep you and anyone else in your household safer. Here are some guidelines for keeping kitchen knives in optimal condition.
Keep Knives Clean
Knives should be cleaned after each use. Inadequate cleaning can cause acids, germs, or rust to accumulate. For example, many foods that are commonly chopped, such as onions, tomatoes, and lemons, are highly acidic.
Wash your knife with warm and soapy water. Avoid using harsh cleaners that may damage or dull the blade. Don’t let knives soak for long periods. Never place knives in a dishwasher. The high temperature of the water can damage knives over time. Another reason is that sharp blades can scratch other items in your dishwasher.
Dry Knives Right After Washing
Don’t make the mistake of letting your knives air dry. Moisture is not good for metal. Blades can rust and attract germs when left damp. Dry your knife with a hand towel or paper towel immediately after washing it.
Use the Right Chopping Board
The type of cutting or chopping board you use will affect the performance and condition of your knife. A traditional wooden cutting board is ideal for maintaining blade sharpness. The quality of the wood also makes a difference. Walnut, maple, cherry, and bamboo are all easy to clean and good for reducing moisture. As a less expensive alternative, plastic boards are the next best thing. However, avoid glass or marble, as these can dull blades over time.
Sharpen Your Knives Regularly
A dull knife is not only less effective for cutting, but it’s also a hazard as well. When using a dull knife, you need to exert more force, increasing the chances of a deep cut. You can opt to have knives sharpened professionally or do it yourself. You can use a sharpening stone or an electric sharpener. Some knives, such as quality Japanese knives made with hard steel, require the best quality sharpening tools such as whetstones.
Store Knives Properly
Knives should be stored in a safe place immediately after usage. Leaving them in the sink, on the counter, or lying damp in a dish rack isn’t good for the knife and can be dangerous, especially if you have children or pets. In the next section, we’ll look at the best options for storing your knives.
Knife Storage Options
The most common way to store knives is using a wooden knife block. However, there are potential downsides to this practice. Blades can get dull when stored in wooden blocks. Another hazard is that mold or mildew may form. Let’s look at some other knife storage options.
Knife Rolls
Knife rolls provide a safe way to protect your knives. A knife roll, which can be made of canvas, leather, or another material, contains pouches to store several blades. Knives are stored and rolled up, protecting both the blades and human hands. Knife rolls are also convenient for chefs who need to transport their knives. You can easily place the roll in a bag, backpack, or any type of carrying case.
Magnetic Knife Holder
Installing magnetic knife holder strips on your kitchen wall is a way to save space, ensure your knives are within easy reach, and keep your blades clean and sharp. A magnetic knife holder is also an attractive choice for a modern and stylish kitchen design.
Slotless Knife Block
A slotless knife block allows you to store knives of varying sizes. It’s easier to keep blades clean and sharp when storing them in a knife block without slots. On the other hand, a spotless knife block does take up counter space.
Knife Safety Tips
A sharp blade is always a potential danger. Keep these safety tips in mind when handling your knives.
- Always keep knives stored in the proper place when not using them. Don’t leave them where children or pets may encounter them.
- Keep your knives sharp.
- Use the appropriate knife for the task. Using a knife that’s too large or small or that has the wrong type of blade can be hazardous as well as inefficient.
- Always use a cutting board when cutting ingredients.
- Pay attention to what you’re doing. Distractions can cause accidents.
Take Good Care of Your Knives
A good knife is an investment as well as an efficient tool for preparing the best meals. The way you handle, clean, and store your blades will determine how well they perform and how long they last. Take proper care of them and they will provide you with many years of quality service.
