How to Maintain Fine Cutlery
Fine cutlery is an investment. The collection of knives, forks and spoons plus accessories that you have may be an heirloom passed down through your family or a brand new wedding gift. It is very important to care for the pieces to keep them in pristine condition. Not only are they financially valuable, they have the family value of memories attached or the potential Christmas, birthday and other celebrations of use ahead. If you care for your stainless, silver or gold plate cutlery it can last for generations to come. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Hand wash fine cutlery immediately after use. Use a mild soap with warm water and carefully wipe with a soft drying towel.
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Wipe away any fingerprints before storing. The oil from your skin could cause permanent staining. Invest in a pair of white cloth gloves to handle the fine pieces. You can find them in archival merchandise catalogs.
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If you intend to put fine cutlery away for a few months of storage, lightly coat the cutlery with USP food grade mineral oil.
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Store in a warm area in protective sleeves or original sectioned box it was packaged in. High heat such as can be found on top of a refrigerator or cold temperatures in basements and garages can damage your fine cutlery.
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Coat the leather handles of fine cutlery with a very thin coat of mineral oil to prevent cracking and other damage during storage. If knives are stored in leather sheaths keep the interior and exterior clean and oiled. These protective covers work particularly well if knives are stored in a cutlery drawer.
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Sharpen fine cutlery knives by hand or hire a professional to complete the task. Use diamond, steel or ceramic sharpeners.
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Store each piece of fine cutlery separately to prevent scratching and other damage if the pieces rub against one another.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not ever put fine cutlery in a dishwasher.
Do not sharpen fine cutlery knives in an electric sharpener.
