Don't Let Unprofessionalism Ruin Your Knives
A good kitchen knife will naturally be good for its price. A good knife is not just a kitchen tool, it is also your right hand for cooking, so we must treat it with care. No matter how sharp the blade is, it is a tool that is easily damaged. We must pay attention when using it to prevent our good knives from dulling.
In the kitchen, you should pay attention to a few points to prevent your kitchen knives from becoming dull.
1. Don’t Put Knives in the Sink
Some people have the habit of throwing their knives in the sink to wash later. This is very dangerous when washing dishes by hand, and it can also damage the blade. The person washing dishes could get scratched, and the blade itself can get scratched, bent or broken.
Instead, develop the habit of washing knives promptly after use and storing them in a safe place.
2. Don't Store Knives with Other Utensils
Storing kitchen knives loose in a drawer with other utensils can lead to a damaged blade. When the drawer opens and closes, the blade edge can get scratched.
If you must store knives in a drawer, use a sheath or guard to protect the blade. A dedicated knife block is best.
3. Wash Knives by Hand
For those with dishwashers, resist the temptation to toss knives in with dishes. Always wash knives gently by hand with mild soap and dry thoroughly. The harsh detergents and heat cycles of a dishwasher will damage blades.
4. Don’t Let Knives Air Dry
After washing a knife, dry it immediately and put it away. Leaving moisture on the blade can cause corrosion and pitting.
5. Sharpen Knives Regularly
Use a whetstone or electric sharpener to sharpen blades as needed. Honing with a steel realigns the edge between sharpenings.
6. Use a Cutting Board
When cutting with kitchen knives, avoid hard surfaces like granite or glass. These will quickly dull the blade. Instead, use a soft wooden or plastic cutting board.
In summary, following basic care steps will maintain your knives for the long run:
Use the proper knife and board for each task
Wash knives gently by hand after use
Dry blades thoroughly and store safely
Hone and sharpen blades regularly
By avoiding common mistakes and having good knife habits, your knives will stay sharp and last for years. A high quality kitchen knife treated with care is a lifetime investment.