How to Care for Your Knives: Expert Tips to Keep Blades Sharp for Years
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A great knife is more than just a kitchen tool — it’s an extension of your hand. From effortless chopping to precise slicing, a sharp, well-maintained blade makes cooking safer, faster, and more enjoyable.
At Mustard.Shop, we stock premium knives from Yasuo and Mac Knives — designed for longevity and precision. But even the best knives need proper care. Here’s how to keep your blades razor-sharp and in pristine condition for years to come.
🔪 1. Always Hand Wash Your Knives
Even if your knife is labeled “dishwasher safe,” avoid putting it in the dishwasher. Harsh detergents, high heat, and jostling against other utensils can dull the blade and damage the handle.
Expert tip:
- Wash knives immediately after use with warm water and mild dish soap.
- Dry thoroughly with a soft cloth to prevent rust or corrosion.
💡 Recommended brands: Yasuo and Mac Knives feature high-carbon steel that retains its sharpness longer when hand-washed and dried immediately.
🔪 2. Store Knives Safely
Proper storage prevents damage to the blade and keeps your kitchen safe. Avoid tossing knives in drawers where they can bang against other utensils.
Storage options:
- Knife blocks — classic, safe, and elegant.
- Magnetic strips — great for visibility and quick access.
- Knife sheaths — perfect for professional chefs or home cooks who travel with their knives.
💡 Tip: Risdon & Risdon has a range of protective sheaths and bags for storage, making them ideal for both home and portable kitchens.
🔪 3. Regular Sharpening and Honing
Sharp knives aren’t just safer — they also make prep work more efficient.
- Honing: Aligns the edge of the blade, typically done every few uses. Use a honing steel or rod.
- Sharpening: Removes small amounts of metal to restore the blade’s edge. Use a whetstone or professional sharpening service.
💡 Recommended brands: Mac Knives and Yasuo blades maintain their edge longer but still benefit from regular honing for precision cuts.
🔪 4. Mind Your Cutting Surfaces
The wrong cutting board can quickly dull your knife.
Best surfaces:
- Wood boards (maple, beech)
- High-quality plastic boards designed for knives
Avoid:
-
Glass, ceramic, or stone — they’re too hard and will chip the edge.
💡 Tip: Pair your Yasuo knives with a Fryth thick wooden board to protect your investment and make chopping effortless.
🔪 5. Use Knives for Their Intended Purpose
A chef’s knife isn’t meant for opening cans, splitting bones, or cutting frozen foods. Using knives properly preserves their edge and prevents accidents.
Quick guide:
- Chef’s knives → slicing, chopping, dicing
- Paring knives → peeling, trimming, small precise cuts
- Utility knives → cutting sandwiches, soft vegetables, or fruits
💡 Tip: Mac Knives have specialised designs for specific tasks, making them versatile but also requiring mindful use.
🔪 6. Professional Maintenance for High-End Knives
For premium knives like Yasuo, and Mac, consider occasional professional sharpening and polishing. It prolongs blade life, keeps the edge true, and restores optimal performance.
💡 Extra care: Some knives benefit from occasional light oiling on carbon steel blades to prevent rust — always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
✅ Summary: Keep Your Knives Sharp for Life
Caring for your knives isn’t difficult — it just requires consistent attention:
- Hand wash and dry immediately
- Store safely
- Hone regularly and sharpen when needed
- Use proper cutting surfaces
- Match each knife to its purpose
- Consider occasional professional maintenance
At Mustard.Shop, we make it easy to invest in high-quality knives and keep them performing like new. Whether it’s a Yasuo chef’s knife, or a Mac utility knife, these tools are built for longevity — and with proper care, they’ll serve you for years to come.
👉 Shop premium knives at Mustard.Shop and cook with confidence.