3 Tips for Maintaining and Caring for Your Knives

Picture this: you go to use your knife and find that it’s dirty and dull. What a headache! These knife care and maintenance tips will help keep your blade ready to prevent this from happening again. Knife care and maintenance is an essential part of owning knives. These three tips will ensure your knife does its job effectively and efficiently.

Immediately Dry Your Knife After Cleanings

Allowing your knife to air dry is a knife care no-no. Air drying your knife can allow germs to build up or lead to rusting. Use a hand towel to wipe the blade dry and remove all moisture. A paper towel will also suffice if you don’t have a hand towel nearby. This one small step can extend your knife’s lifespan.

Clean Your Knife After Each Use

Not cleaning your knife after each use can lead to corrosion over time. Cutting up acidic food items, such as tomatoes and lemons, can also lead to corrosion. The acidity doesn’t sit well on high-carbon steel knives. Stainless steel knives contain specific alloys that prevent rust.

Knife neglection allows rust patterns to develop. Continuously cleaning your blade while you’re cutting will help keep it clean and effective. Ensure you’re using hot, soapy water when you’re washing your knife. Wash it immediately after each use.

Avoid soaking your knife in the water. This mistake can oversaturate the handle and allow bacteria to build up. Keeping your knife clean is an important part of knife maintenance and care.

Keep Your Knife Blade Sharp

Getting your knives sharpened professionally is never a bad idea. It’s time to sharpen your knife when you find that the blade isn’t slicing and cutting with ease or accuracy. Of course, you can sharpen the knife yourself if you feel comfortable.

Look for specific products like a leather strop, electric sharpener, whetstone, or honing rod. A dull knife is dangerous. You can end up with more cuts or injuries.

Aim to sharpen your knives twice a year and hone them before each use. This habit will help extend the lifespan of your blades and keep them working effectively and efficiently.

A well-maintained and cared-for knife will serve you best in life. The Knife Connection only carries high-quality knives for our customers. We’re proud to offer LT Wright knife products, which have developed a reputation for being top-of-the-line for campers, fishing enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers. Browse our catalog to find the perfect knife for you.