5 Tips for Cleaning a Traditional Pocket Knife

Pocket knives are incredibly handy tools that undergo a lot of use. Because of this, they become dirty and dull, making them less efficient. Cleaning the knife is as important as sharpening the blade. These traditional pocket knife cleaning tips will get your knife looking as good as new.

Items You’ll Need

Before cleaning your pocket knife, gather a few items you most likely have around the house:

• Paper towels
• Toothpicks
• An old toothbrush or small brush
• Mild soap and warm water
• Cotton swabs
• A lubricant, such as sewing machine oil, mineral oil, or gun oil

You can begin cleaning after you have all the supplies. These cleaning items will work no matter what type of traditional pocket knife you have.

Remove the Gunk and Lint

Ensure the knife is open all the way, and use the toothpick to remove all the stuck gunk and lint. If you’re having trouble with the locking mechanism, clearing out debris may fix the problem. Do this step with a dry knife; otherwise, the lint and debris will be challenging to remove.

Scrub and Rinse the Knife

Run the knife under warm water to remove all the lint and gunk. Place a few drops of mild soap on the toothbrush and carefully scrub the pocket knife paying close attention to the locking mechanism. Remove all the grime from the blade and handle.

Ensure you clean each part of the pocket knife. After you’ve scrubbed all the separate pieces, rub down the inside of the body. Use the cotton swab to get into all the grooves and corners. Rinse the knife well and dry it with a clean paper towel.

Let the Tool Fully Dry

Allow the pocket knife to dry before using it again. Leave it on a clean paper towel overnight if you’d rather air-dry it.

Sparingly Lube the Knife

Sparingly lubricate the blade, pivot, and other moving parts after the knife dries fully. Most lubricants are petroleum-based and similar to gun or sewing machine oil. Consider a food-safe lube if you’re using the pocket knife as an eating utensil. Mineral or vegetable oils are two excellent options.

Remember, a little lube goes a long way. Wipe off any excess lubrication with another paper towel.

It’s not difficult to clean your pocket knife, and it is important for longevity. Follow the above pocket knife cleaning tips to ensure your knife works for years. Visit The Knife Connection’s online knife store if you’re searching for a new knife. You’ll find a great selection of knives and accessories!