How to Clean Stainless Steel Knives

Cleaning your stainless steel knives is not just about removing visible food and other items from the knives. The knives must be thoroughly cleaned so that you do not spread bacteria or germs the next time you use the knives. You must use caution, however, or else the knives could be stained after the cleaning process. Harsh or improper cleaning methods could also bend the blades of the stainless steel knives, preventing you from using the knives in the future.

Things You'll Need

• Non-abrasive cloths
• Water
• Non-abrasive scrubber or sponge
• Mild dish soap (bleach free)

Instructions

1. Wipe the blade of the stainless steel knife with a clean non-abrasive cloth as soon as you're finished using the knife.

2. Rinse the stainless steel knife with warm to hot water.

3. Squirt a few drops of the dish soap onto a wet non-abrasive cloth or scrubber.

4. Scrub the knife blade gently with the soapy cloth or scrubber. Do so until you no longer see any debris on the knife.

5. Rinse the knife once more with warm to hot water.

6. Dry the stainless steel knife immediately with another clean non-abrasive cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• Never submerge stainless steel knives in soapy water, or wash stainless steel knives in a dishwasher. Doing so could leave stains on the knives or even damage the knives.

References

• Buck Knives: Knife Care
• Knife Center: Knife Care
• Edge Craft: Knives and Knife Sharpeners: Myths and Facts