At-Home Ways to Clean Knife Blades

Avoid the Dishwasher

• The temper, or hardness, of your knives is damaged by the dishwasher. Over several cycles in the dishwasher, with water jets knocking knives against silverware or pots, the blades become soft and less effective.

Hand Wash

• Hand wash knife blades in warm water using a mild soap and sponge or dishcloth. This method allows you to ensure that all debris is removed. It is a more gentle way to clean blades that also prolongs the life of the knife.

Remove Rust

• Tarnishing and oxidation are issues which all steel knives -- regardless of their quality -- are subject to. At the first signs of rust, employ the use of a metal cleaner or silver polish. Follow cleaner instructions as printed on the product. For pocket and hobby knives, periodically oil the joints and springs with a drop or two of vegetable oil or petroleum jelly if you sense that rust is causing a delay in their spring action. After polishing, hand wash any knife used with food.

Preventative Measures

• Do not store knives in sheaths for extended periods of time. Although most sheaths have ventilation holes, access to circulating air is a better means of preventing the buildup of rust and/ or mold.