Knives are crucial for busy professional chefs and can cut anything from vegetables to meat. But sadly, not all knives have a lifespan that’s as long as the good food they produce.
We will discuss ways to protect your knives and extend their life span so you don’t need a new investment every time your blades get dull or cloudy. Let’s look at what should and should not be done with your kitchen knives, including properly sharpening them.
Efficient Ways to Prolong Your Knife’s Life:
Use the Correct Knife.
If you’re not sure which kind of knife to use for a specific function or task, here are some details that should help. The shape and size of your knife are crucial in determining what it is most suited for. You may want to avoid using a chef knife on meat and fish because it’s too heavy to maneuver properly. For tasks such as cutting through fruit, you’ll be better off with a razor-sharp boning knife than a serrated one as the first choice for chopping.
Don’t Stack for Sharpness.
It is not always necessary to sharpen your knife every time you use it. Sharpening a blade that’s already sharp will lead to damage. If you’re not used to hacking through a bag of potatoes or a couple of carrots, stop, put your knife down and let the blade cool before proceeding. This will result in less weight on the blade and help avoid nicks and the need for re-sharpening.
Handle It Right!
Using your knife wrong can dull your blade, and then you’ll have to replace it. Follow the instructions included with your knife and use the proper grip and grip angle that suits the task at hand. Hold your knife at approximately a 15-degree angle (not too much, not too little) when cutting food with it. This is crucial to the longevity of your blade.
Keep It Clean
Keeping your knives clean and dry after every use is crucial to maintaining their sharpness. Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to wipe off food particles that may have gotten stuck in the blade. Soften any stubborn residue with warm water and non-abrasive soap, then dry with a soft linen towel and air-dry your knife. Never put knives in the dishwasher, as the harsh, tumbling water will dull them rather quickly.
Knife Sharpening.
If you find that you need to sharpen your blade, you will need to invest in a good sharpener. There are many options available on the market, ranging from electric models to manual ones. Be sure to follow the instructions with your sharpener and don’t use it if it isn’t working correctly. You can also get an additional hand by finding a professional sharpener in your area.
Always use a honing steel to maintain your knife’s edge.
Maintenance Tips for Your Knives:
1. Avoid storing your knives with any other sharp objects, as this could cause injury in the event of a cut.
2. Use a knife block to keep your knives from getting damaged and avoid keeping them in the sink or on the countertop.
3. Store your knives in a knife holder or block to prevent damage and prevent them from getting scratched away by other hard items, such as glassware and utensils.
4. Sharpen your knives regularly, as this will extend their lifespan and prevent them from getting dull.
5. Store your knives in a dry area, as wetness can cause the handles to deteriorate or get moldy.
6. Avoid cutting frozen or hard food with your knife, as this can cause the blade to chip away, leading to breakage and damage.
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Conclusion:
Extending the life of your knives is crucial for chefs and those who rely on their kitchen products daily. By following these tips, you can keep your knives in good condition as well as prevent yourself from having to purchase new blades all the time.
