🔪 Knife Care 101: How to Keep Your High Carbon Stainless Steel Knives Sharp, Clean, and Rust-Free

A good knife is more than just a tool—it’s an investment in your cooking. And like any great tool, proper care makes all the difference. Here’s your go-to guide for maintaining your KnifeSaga knives:

✅ Daily Cleaning Tips

1️⃣ Never put your knives in the dishwasher. The high heat and detergent can damage both the blade and handle.
2️⃣ Hand wash with mild soap and warm water, then dry the knife immediately with a soft towel. Do not let it air dry.
3️⃣ After cutting acidic foods like tomatoes or citrus, wipe the blade right away to prevent discoloration—especially important for high carbon steel knives.

🛡 Preventing Rust

1️⃣ After cleaning, apply a thin layer of knife oil, food-grade mineral oil, or Tsubaki oil to the blade. This helps protect against moisture and oxidation.
2️⃣ Even stainless steel knives can rust if stored wet. Always store your knife completely dry in a clean, dry environment.

✂️ Keeping Your Knife Sharp

1️⃣ Use the right knife for the job. Don’t cut bones, frozen foods, or extremely hard items with delicate blades.
2️⃣ Avoid cutting on hard surfaces like glass, marble, or metal. Always use a wooden or soft plastic cutting board.
3️⃣ Regularly hone or sharpen your knives using a sharpening stone or knife sharpener—every 1–2 months for regular home use is ideal.
4️⃣ Never twist or pry the knife sideways while cutting. Japanese-style blades are sharper but more delicate than Western knives.

🧊 Proper Storage

1️⃣ Don’t toss knives loosely into a drawer—it can dull or nick the blade.
2️⃣ Use a knife sheath, magnetic strip, or wooden knife block to protect both the blade and your hands.
3️⃣ Keep knives out of reach of children, and never leave them unattended on countertops.

⚠️ Knife Safety Reminders

  1. Always cut on a stable surface and keep fingers away from the cutting line.
  2. Never hold food in your hand while slicing—use a cutting board.
  3. Never try to catch a falling knife.
  4. Be mindful of where the sharp edge is when placing or picking up the knife.

✨ Pro Tip:
If your blade shows minor rust spots, gently rub the area with baking soda and water or lemon juice and a soft cloth. A little TLC goes a long way!

Treat your knives well, and they’ll stay razor-sharp and reliable for years to come.