How to Care for a Damascus Steel Knife | Kusari Knife Maintenance Tips

At Kusari, each knife is a work of craftsmanship — forged with precision, balance, and beauty in every detail. But even the finest blade needs proper care to stay at its best. Whether you’re slicing vegetables or carving meat, how you maintain your knife makes all the difference in performance and longevity.

Here are five simple tips to help your Kusari knife last a lifetime.

1. Always Hand Wash — Never Use the Dishwasher

Dishwashers can be harsh on knives, especially those made from Damascus steel. The high heat, moisture, and detergent can damage both the blade and the handle.

Instead: Rinse your knife under warm water with mild soap and dry it immediately with a soft towel.

2. Dry It Immediately After Use

Leaving your knife wet — even briefly — can lead to rust or stains over time. Damascus patterns are beautiful but delicate, and moisture can dull both the finish and the blade.

Pro tip: Wipe your knife dry right after washing, even between prep steps.

3. Store It Safely

Tossing your knife in a drawer will dull the edge fast. Instead, use:

• A wooden knife block
• A magnetic strip
• Or a blade guard if space is tight

Protecting the edge ensures your Kusari knife stays razor-sharp and prevents accidents in the kitchen.

4. Use a Wooden or Plastic Cutting Board

Hard surfaces like glass, stone, or ceramic will wreck your knife’s edge quickly.

Always cut on softer boards, like:

• End-grain wood
• Bamboo
• High-density plastic

This helps preserve the edge and reduces the need for constant sharpening.

5. Hone Regularly, Sharpen Occasionally

Even the best knives get dull over time. Use a honing rod every few uses to keep the edge aligned. For full sharpening, we recommend a whetstone or professional sharpening every 6–12 months, depending on how often you use it.

Final Thoughts: Care Makes All the Difference

A Kusari knife is more than a kitchen tool — it’s an investment. With the right habits, your knife can stay as sharp, strong, and stunning as the day you bought it.

Take care of your blade, and it will take care of your craft.