How to Store Kitchen Knives Properly
The drawer is the worst place for a quality knife. Three methods that protect blade and edge.
The most common mistake: the drawer
A loose cutlery drawer is the worst place to keep a good knife. That sounds drastic, but it’s true: when knives lie unprotected in a drawer with other cutlery, the blades knock against forks, spoons and other knives with every movement. That ruins the edge – and you often only notice when the knife is cutting noticeably worse.
The three right ways to store knives
1. The knife block – classic and safe
A wooden knife block is the most popular storage solution in home kitchens – and for good reason. The knives are protected, the edges don’t touch anything else, and the block sits within easy reach on the worktop.
What to look out for: The block should suit the size of your knives. Blades that stick out too far or sit too deep get stressed against the wooden edge every time you put them in or take them out. Clean the block regularly (once a month) – crumbs and moisture can collect inside.
2. The magnetic strip – space-saving and clear
A wall-mounted magnetic strip is the most elegant solution if you want to save worktop space. The knives hang freely, the blades aren’t covered and dry quickly. And well-kept Solingen knives on a magnetic strip simply look good.
What to look out for: The magnet must be strong enough to hold the knives securely. Always lift knives off sideways – never pull them forwards, as that damages the edge. And the strip should be made of wood or stainless steel, not a material that can scratch the blade.
3. The blade guard – for drawers and travel
If you want or need to keep knives in a drawer – for example when cooking on the go – use a plastic or leather blade guard. It protects the edge and lets you reach into the drawer safely.
What about the dishwasher basket?
Not a storage place – and not a washing option either. You can read what the dishwasher does to knife blades in our guide Kitchen knives in the dishwasher – why it’s a mistake.
Special case: storing olive wood handles properly
Our VOCUT knives with olive wood handles are tougher than you might think – but moisture is their enemy. Knives with olive wood handles should:
- Always be stored dry
- Never be left wet for long periods
- Occasionally (every few months) be rubbed with a drop of olive oil or wood care oil – this preserves the shine and structure of the wood
Conclusion
Knife block, magnetic strip or blade guard – all three methods protect the edge better than the drawer. Invest in good storage once and you’ll save yourself frequent resharpening.
You’ll find more care tips in our overview Kitchen knife care and in our FAQ.
VOCUT knives with olive wood handles – on a magnetic strip or in a block, the handles really come into their own.
