Your kitchen knives are some of the most important tools in your home—especially when you’re using high-performance blades like our DaTerra Cucina Santoku and Chef Knives. But even the finest knives can lose their edge or become damaged without the right care.
Proper cleaning habits not only extend the life of your knives, but also help keep your cooking safe, smooth, and enjoyable.
Here’s everything you need to know about safely cleaning and maintaining your knives:
1. Hand Wash Only—Always
It might be tempting to toss your knife into the dishwasher after a long meal prep—but resist the urge. High heat, harsh detergents, and the banging around during the cycle can damage both the blade and the handle.
Instead:
- Wash your knife by hand with warm water and mild dish soap
- Avoid soaking for long periods
- Never use abrasive scrubbers like steel wool
2. Clean Safely and Mindfully
Cleaning a knife can be risky if not done carefully. Always hold the knife by the spine (the non-sharp back of the blade) and wipe away from your body.
Quick Tips:
- Use a soft sponge or cloth
- Don’t leave knives in sinks—this dulls the edge and increases the risk of injury
- Rinse immediately after use to prevent food from sticking and staining
3. Dry Immediately After Washing
Moisture is a knife’s enemy. Even stainless steel can rust or corrode over time if it’s stored wet.
What to do:
- Pat dry with a soft towel immediately after washing
- Pay close attention to the area near the handle where moisture can hide
4. Store Only When Fully Dry
Never store a knife while it’s still damp. Not only can it develop rust, but it can also create a breeding ground for bacteria—especially inside knife blocks or drawers.
Best practice:
- Make sure knives are completely dry before storing
- Consider using a knife guard, magnetic strip, or knife block for safe storage
5. Maintain Sharpness Between Uses
Cleaning is just one part of the equation—keeping your knife sharp is just as important. A clean knife that’s dull can still be unsafe and ineffective.
Try this:
- Use a honing steel regularly to maintain the edge
- Get your knife professionally sharpened when needed (or use a sharpening tool you trust)
Caring for your DaTerra Cucina knives isn’t complicated, but it does matter. A few simple habits go a long way in protecting your tools, improving your cooking, and keeping your kitchen safer.
Explore our full range of care tips, kitchen guides, and recipes on the blog.
And if you haven’t tried our Santoku or Chef Knife yet—now’s the perfect time to upgrade your kitchen essentials.
