Kitchen knives are essential when it comes to cooking. They must stay sharp and well-maintained to perform at their peak. According to IBISWorld, the market size of the Online Large Kitchen Appliance industry in the US has increased by 14.3% per year on average between 2016 and 2021. Knowing how important knives are to cooking, utilizing knife sharpening and other techniques can ensure they stay in top condition, no matter how often you use them. Here are some tips on how to care for your kitchen knives.

1. Clean After Every Use

Always clean your kitchen knives after each use. Use hot soapy water for washing and a soft cloth for drying. Improper cleaning allows germs and bacteria to accumulate, which can be a health hazard. Built-up dirt will also cause the blades to dull faster, making them less effective.

2. Store Them Separately

When storing your kitchen knives, keep them in a separate container. Do so by keeping them in either a knife block or wrapped individually and stored in a drawer or cabinet. Keeping your knives stored separately will help protect them from damage that might occur if placed together with other cutlery.

3. Sharpen Them Regularly

Make knife sharpening a habit to keep them in top shape. Having a knife sharpening company on hand to regularly keep your blades in proper shape will ensure your food is prepared properly. Keep an eye out for dull blades. When you find, have your knife sharpening business get them ready for you.

4. Use a Wood Cutting Board

Did you know the type of cutting board you use affects sharpness? Using knives to cut food on a hard surface like stainless steel or glass can damage the blade. Be sure to use a wood cutting board when cutting fruits, vegetables, and meats.

5. Don't Leave Them Wet

Once you've finished cleaning your kitchen knives, store them in a dry space. Leaving them wet can damage the blade, as well as result in rusting or staining. A rusty knife is dangerous and quickly loses sharpness over time.

6. Hold Them Properly

A good holding position isn't just for your safety, but also the longevity of the blade. Place your thumb and index finger on the blade, just behind the bolster or handle. It'll help you better grip the knife and ensure it's stable while in use. It also prevents it from slipping and can help maintain blade sharpness for a longer period.

Why invest in a good knife set only to ignore its proper care? By following the above steps, you can ensure that your kitchen knives remain in excellent shape and serve you well for years to come. Need help with knife sharpening? Give our local experts at Master Grinding Service Inc. a call for more information.