How to Maintain a Wooden Knife Handle

The handle of a wooden-handled knife can often deteriorate before the blade, rendering the knife useless even if the cutting surface is still in good condition. To get the most out of your wooden-handled knives, it is imperative to maintain the handles carefully. Regular washing and other treatment will ensure that your knife handle remains in good condition for as long as possible.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Wash the knife immediately after every use. Food or other residue can cling to the wood, making it more difficult to remove after time.

2. Wash your knife by hand. A dishwasher puts much more stress on the knife handle. It also keeps it in contact with water for a much longer period, which can leave the handle waterlogged and lead to warping.

3. Do not soak the knife. Pots and pans can be left to soak to soften grime and residue, but knives will not respond well to this treatment. Any prolonged contact with water is liable to damage a wooden knife handle.

4. Oil the handle of the knife every few months. Make sure the knife is clean and dry, and use a paper towel to wipe the surface lightly with oil. Special products are available for this treatment, but you can also use canola oil.

5. Store your knife in a cool, dry place. Humidity tends to warp wood and can also lead to mold problems, so be sure your knife is stored in a consistently dry location.

References

• Knife maintenance
• Wood oils