Kitchen knives: how to properly care for them?

Kitchen knives are essential tools for any cook, amateur or professional. A well-maintained knife ensures precise and safe cutting, while also extending the tool's lifespan. Maintaining your kitchen knives is crucial for preserving their sharpness and preventing accidents. We'll show you how to properly care for your kitchen knives , covering best practices for sharpening, cleaning, and storage. Follow these tips to keep your blades in perfect condition, ready to precisely cut all your fruits and vegetables!

The basics of kitchen knife maintenance

Cleaning and drying knives

Cleaning kitchen knives is essential to prevent corrosion and preserve the quality of the blades. It is recommended to wash your knives by hand with warm water and a mild detergent. Avoid putting knives in the dishwasher, as harsh chemicals and high temperatures can damage the blade and handle. After washing, dry the knives immediately with a soft cloth to prevent water spots and rust.

Knife storage

Proper storage of kitchen knives protects the blades and ensures their safety. Use a wooden knife block or a magnetic knife holder to store your knives. These solutions keep the blades safe from bumps and scratches. If you prefer to store your knives in a drawer, invest in blade protectors or a specific drawer insert to prevent the blades from knocking against each other and becoming dull.

Want to learn more about choosing your kitchen knives? Follow our guide, specially designed to help you choose the right knives for you, right here !

Knife sharpening and honing

Sharpening with a stone

Sharpening with a whetstone is a traditional and effective method for maintaining the edge of kitchen knives. Use a whetstone , preferably made of natural stone or ceramic . Begin by soaking the stone in water for about fifteen minutes. Then, run the knife blade over the stone using smooth, even strokes and maintaining a constant angle of 15 to 20 degrees. Repeat this process until you achieve a clean, precise edge.

Manelli offers a wide range of sharpening stones from various brands. The two sharpening stones we offer are the Kai brand stone, priced at €33.25 excluding VAT, and the Japanese Fischer stone, priced at €49.75 excluding VAT .

Feel free to check out the positive reviews about our sharpening stones to help you make your choice.

Review: 5/5 stars for the Kai Japanese Double-Sided Sharpening Stone

Edisson C. – 25/11/2023 – I love it

A sharpening steel is a practical tool for maintaining the sharpness of kitchen knives on a daily basis. Unlike a whetstone, the steel doesn't remove material from the blade but straightens the edge. To use a sharpening steel, hold it vertically and slide the knife blade along the steel rod, maintaining a 15- to 20-degree angle. Repeat this several times on each side of the blade to achieve optimal sharpness.

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Precautions and tips to extend the life of knives

Proper use of kitchen knives

Using your kitchen knives correctly is crucial to preserving their sharpness and preventing damage. Avoid cutting foods like fruits or vegetables on hard surfaces such as glass or marble, which can quickly dull the blades. Opt for wooden or plastic cutting boards instead. Furthermore, do not use your chef's knives to open cans or cut non-food items, as this could damage the blade and handle. To achieve beautiful cuts, it is important to take care of your professional kitchen knife .

Lubricating the wooden handles

The wooden handles of kitchen knives require special care to prevent them from drying out and cracking. Regularly apply a thin coat of mineral oil or linseed oil to the wooden handles to nourish them and protect them from moisture. Wipe off any excess oil with a soft cloth and allow them to air dry. This routine will help maintain the beauty and durability of your wooden handles.

Recommended kitchen knife brands

French brands: Fischer Bargoin and Sabatier

In France , quality kitchen knives are synonymous with tradition and excellence. Fischer Bargoin and Sabatier are two iconic brands available on the Manelli website, distinguished by their expertise and the quality of their products. Fischer Bargoin, founded in 1859, is renowned for its stainless steel blades that combine robustness and precision. Their knives are designed for professional use, guaranteeing a long lifespan and easy maintenance.

Sabatier , another historic French brand, offers a wide range of kitchen knives, renowned for their perfect balance and exceptional sharpness . Made from high-quality steel, Sabatier knives are prized by both professional chefs and home cooks. Their elegant design and ergonomics make them indispensable tools in any well-equipped kitchen.

Japanese knives: Samura

For those seeking an alternative to French brands, Japanese knives from Samura are an excellent option. Samura combines traditional Japanese manufacturing techniques with modern materials to create knives of exceptional quality. Samura blades are often made of high-performance stainless steel, offering remarkable sharpness and durability.

Japanese knives are renowned for their finesse and precision , ideal for delicate and detailed cuts. The Samura brand offers a variety of models suited to different culinary uses, from preparing sashimi to slicing vegetables. Their elegant design and superior handling make them a preferred choice for chefs and cooking enthusiasts worldwide.

By following these tips, you can extend the life of your kitchen knives and ensure optimal performance every time you use them. Regular maintenance, including cleaning, drying, sharpening, and proper storage, is essential to preserving the sharpness and quality of your blades. Take good care of your knives, and they will serve you well in the kitchen for many years to come. Remember that well-maintained knives are not only more efficient but also safer to use.

Discover all cleaning products and all brands of kitchen knives on Manelli.fr !

To complete your kitchen equipment, Manelli offers a range of high-quality professional clothing. Discover the chef's jacket , ideal for working safely and in style. Pair it with comfortable and practical chef's trousers for optimal mobility in the kitchen. Don't overlook the importance of a durable and stylish apron , perfect for protecting your clothes from splashes. Finally, for maximum protection, choose comfortable, non-slip kitchen shoes , ideal for long hours in the kitchen.