How to Clean a Knife

Knives can be funny sometimes. I mean, think about it- what other object can so easily switch from being a utensil to a weapon? It's amazing. And they're not just for cutting food or killing people, oh no. Knives can also be used for more creative purposes, like carving wood or whittling. I once saw a guy carve a beautiful wooden duck with nothing but a pocket knife- it was incredible.

If you're a homeowner like me, you know that there are some household tasks that you just can't put off.

You have to clean the dishes every night, or else the kitchen will be overrun with ants. You have to sweep and mop the floors at least once a week, or else they'll be covered in dust. And you have to clean and sanitize your knives on a regular basis, or else they'll start growing bacteria. Yes, it's true: knives need to be cleaned and sanitized just like any other piece of kitchen equipment.

So if you've been neglecting this important task, now is the time to start taking it seriously. Here are a few tips on properly cleaning and sanitizing your knives.

Never clean your knives in the dishwasher!  

As a professional chef, I can tell you that one of the worst things you can do to your knives is put them in the dishwasher. Not only does the harsh detergent and hot water damage the blade, but it also dulls the edge.

Moreover, the high temperatures can potentially warp the handle, making it uncomfortable to use. If you want your knives to last, it's important to hand-wash them using a gentle soap and warm water. And if you want to keep them in tip-top condition, consider investing in a honing rod and sharpening stone.

With a little care, your knives will give you years of faithful service.

After washing, dry your knives immediately with a clean towel or paper towel

Like most people, you probably don't think too much about drying your knives after you wash them. But did you know that failing to dry your knives properly can actually lead to bacteria growth? That's right - wet knives are the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, so it's important to ensure you dry them as soon as possible after washing.

The best way to do this is to use a clean towel or paper towel to dry the blade and handle it thoroughly. By taking this simple step, you can help keep your knives clean and sanitary. Next time you're done washing your knives, be sure to take a few extra seconds to dry them off - your health (and tastebuds) will thank you!

Never put your knives away wet - this can cause rusting and corrosion

There are certain things you just never put away wet. Dishes, for instance. Or laundry. But what about your knives? You might not think it's a big deal to leave them sitting in the sink until they're dry, but did you know that this is one of the most common ways bacteria are spread in the kitchen?

When knives are left wet, bacteria have a chance to grow and multiply. And since knives are often used to prepare food, these bacteria can easily end up in your family's mouths. So next time you're tempted to leave your knives out to air dry, take a minute to sanitize them first. It's a small step that can go a long way towards keeping your family healthy.

Finally, if you're looking to get your knives sparkling clean, commercial sanitation services are always an option! But be warned - they can be pretty pricey.

So there you have it - tips on properly cleaning and sanitizing your knives. Now get out there and start chopping!