You’ve invested in a quality knife set — now let’s make sure it lasts. Whether you cook every night or a few times a week, proper knife care can dramatically extend the life of your blades and keep every slice smooth and satisfying.
In this guide, we’ll cover the simple habits and tools you need to keep your knives razor-sharp, safe, and in good condition for years to come.
🔪 Why Knife Maintenance Matters
Blunt knives don’t just make food prep harder — they’re actually more dangerous. A dull blade forces more pressure, increasing the risk of slipping and injury.
Well-maintained knives, on the other hand:
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Stay sharper for longer.
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Require less force = better control.
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Cut cleaner, faster, and more precisely.
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Last for years with minimal replacement.
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Keep your kitchen feeling professional.
🧽 1. Wash Gently by Hand
Dishwashers are one of the biggest threats to kitchen knives. High heat, harsh detergents, and rattling movement can dull edges and damage handles.
✅ Do:
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Wash with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge
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Rinse and dry immediately with a towel
❌ Don’t:
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Soak knives in the sink
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Use steel wool or scouring pads
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Leave them to air-dry
✋ Always dry thoroughly — especially if you own wooden handles or knife blocks.
🪵 2. Store Them Properly
Where you store your knives matters just as much as how you clean them.
At Fansee, we recommend:
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Knife blocks for easy access and blade protection
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Drawer knife organisers to keep knives safely separated
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Magnetic wall strips for a sleek, space-saving solution
Explore Knife Storage Options →
🪓 3. Use the Right Cutting Surface
Chopping on glass or stone might look fancy, but it’s a fast way to kill a good knife. The best surfaces for your blades are:
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Wooden cutting boards (end grain if possible)
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Soft plastic chopping mats
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Bamboo boards
Avoid:
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Glass
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Marble or granite
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Metal surfaces
🔄 4. Hone Regularly, Sharpen Occasionally
What’s the difference?
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Honing realigns the blade — it keeps sharp knives sharp.
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Sharpening removes metal to form a new edge — done less frequently.
✅ How often?
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Hone every 2–3 uses (with a honing rod)
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Sharpen every 6–12 months (with a whetstone or professional service)
If you’re unsure, we recommend starting with a ceramic honing rod — easy to use and gentle on blades.
🛠️ Want low-maintenance knives? Choose Damascus or stainless steel knife sets that retain their edge longer.
🧴 5. Care for Wooden Handles & Blocks
If your knife set includes wooden handles or a timber knife block, a little extra care goes a long way:
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Oil occasionally with food-safe mineral oil.
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Avoid soaking or leaving near heat sources.
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Wipe down the block regularly to prevent dust and mould.
🔗 Related Reading
🧠 Knife Care FAQs
Q: How do I know when my knife needs sharpening?
A: If your blade crushes tomatoes instead of slicing or slides off onions, it's time.
Q: Can I use a pull-through sharpener?
A: You can, but it's rough on your knives. Whetstones or professional sharpening are better for long-term use.
Q: Are ceramic knives harder to care for?
A: Not harder, but they’re more delicate. Store them carefully and avoid twisting or dropping.
🔚 Final Thoughts
Caring for your knives isn’t hard — it’s just a habit. And once you get into the routine of washing, storing, and maintaining them properly, your knives will reward you with better performance, longer life, and safer cooking.
Whether you own one of our signature 5-piece knife sets, a wall-mounted knife strip, or a full professional 7-piece kit, proper care keeps every blade sharp and stylish.
🛒 Shop Fansee’s Knife Sets & Storage Accessories →
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💬 Questions? Contact us anytime
