| Knives are the first tools used by mankind, | | | | the blade can break or chip or not leaving it in a |
| reflecting how useful and indispensable it is not | | | | basin of water for a prolonged time. Regular knife |
| only in everyday tasks but for so many other | | | | care routine should always include lubricating the |
| uses. As with other implements, caring for your | | | | knife. Moisten a cloth with oil and rub the knife |
| knives properly is how you can ensure its usability | | | | with it every time you are done cleaning it. Don't |
| for a long time. The tips below are applicable to | | | | leave any excess oil on the knife. |
| most kinds of knives, whether folding knives or | | | | In addition, you should care for the handle as |
| fixed blade knives. | | | | much as you care for the blade. Clean the knife |
| How to Clean | | | | handle using the right cleaning product for the |
| The first rule in proper knife care is to clean and | | | | material used. For a pocket knife, make sure to |
| dry knives after each use. This means, you should | | | | ease the blade back into the handle because |
| clean the entire piece from blade to handle. While | | | | slapping it back recklessly can make the blade dull |
| modern knives have blades that are more | | | | or damage the handle. |
| rust-resistant, corrosion and oxidization can still | | | | Storing Your Knife |
| affect them if they are not properly cared for. | | | | Usually, a storage device is included when you |
| In cleaning your knife, avoid using harsh cleaning | | | | purchase utility and cutlery knives. The device |
| agents and solvents. Look for cleaning products in | | | | could be a knife block or a knife sheath, which are |
| the market formulated specifically for knives. | | | | effective in protecting the knife from the |
| Warm water should be used to rinse a stainless | | | | elements. However, such devices are for |
| steel blade. If the knife blade is made of carbon | | | | short-term storage since the knives are used |
| steel, add baking soda to the warm water rinse. | | | | frequently. |
| If you find that some part of the knife still | | | | If you need to keep your knife for a long time, |
| became rusty, just scrub it with a steel wool pad | | | | look for long-term storage devices that are made |
| and alcohol. | | | | with non-acidic materials to ensure your knife |
| Preventive Care | | | | doesn't become corroded while in storage. Before |
| Preventive care done regularly is the secret to | | | | storing it away, make sure the knife is clean and |
| avoiding knife problems that will need repair. | | | | dry. Oil the knife and then wrap it in soft fabric. |
| Caring for your knife is mostly commonsense | | | | Store your knife in a dry and cool area. |
| such as not washing it in the dishwasher where | | | | |