Damascus knives are among the finest and most powerful knives in the kitchen. They are characterized by their exceptional sharpness and the characteristic, wave-shaped damascus pattern that is created by layering different types of steel. But in order to maintain their sharpness and appearance for a long time, damascus knives require special care. In this blog post, we will show you how to properly care for, clean and sharpen your damascus knife.
1. Why Damascus knives require special care
Damascus knives are made of several layers of steel, which often also contain a core of harder steel. This layering not only gives them their sharpness and flexibility, but also the typical pattern that makes Damascus knives so unique. To ensure that your knife stays in top shape, both visually and functionally, special care is necessary.
2. Proper cleaning
Damascus knives should always be cleaned carefully to prevent rust and wear of the blade.- Hand wash instead of dishwasher : A Damascus knife should never be put in the dishwasher. The high temperatures and aggressive cleaning agents can damage the blade and affect its sharpness. It is best to rinse your Damascus knife carefully with warm water and a little mild detergent immediately after use.
- Dry immediately : After washing, you should dry the knife immediately and thoroughly. This prevents moisture from settling in the layers of steel and causing rust spots.
3. Sharpening a Damascus knife
To keep your Damascus knife sharp, regular sharpening is necessary. The best method for this is with a whetstone, as it gently works on the material and preserves the cutting edge optimally.- Whetstone instead of whetstone rod : A whetstone, ideally with a grain of around 1000-3000 for regular grinding and 6000-8000 for fine work, is best. The whetstone rod can damage the delicate Damascus blade and is therefore not recommended.
- Correct angle : Hold the blade at an angle of about 10-15 degrees and pull it evenly over the whetstone to ensure a sharp and clean edge.
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Polishing after sharpening : After sharpening, use a fine whetstone or leather strip to polish the blade and give it the finishing touch.
You can find more detailed instructions in our blog post on this topic. See Sharpening knives with whetstones .
4. Storage of the Damascus knife
Proper storage is crucial to protect the sharpness and pattern of your Damascus knife:- Knife block or magnetic strip : A wooden knife block or a magnetic strip are ideal storage places as they protect the knife while also preserving the blade.
- Knife bag or blade protector : If you want to store the knife in a drawer, you should use a blade protector. This will prevent the blade from coming into contact with other utensils and becoming damaged.
5. Regular oiling for additional protection
To increase rust resistance and protect the damask pattern, it can be helpful to occasionally treat the blade with a special care oil, such as camellia oil.- How to use : Apply a small amount of oil to the blade with a soft cloth and spread it evenly. This will seal the blade, providing additional protection against corrosion and making the damask pattern shine.
- How often should you oil it? Once a month is ideal, especially if you keep the knife in a humid environment like the kitchen. If you use it intensively, you can oil it more often.
6. Avoid hard or acidic cutting surfaces
Damascus knives are more sensitive to hard materials that can dull the blade. Therefore, always use a wooden or plastic cutting board to preserve the sharpness. You should also be careful with acidic foods such as citrus fruits and tomatoes, as these can attack the blade if left in contact for a long time. Rinse the knife immediately after cutting such foods.Conclusion: Caring for a Damascus knife is worth it
A Damascus knife is not just a cutting tool, but a masterpiece of blacksmithing. With careful care and attention, your Damascus knife will stay razor sharp and retain its impressive aesthetic. With proper cleaning, occasional sharpening and protective storage, your Damascus knife will serve you faithfully for many years and become an indispensable companion in the kitchen. The instructions naturally also apply to all "non" Damascus knives in our range.
