Storing Knives In The Short And Long Term | Easy Guide
Kitchen knives are some of the most important yet dangerous tools in the kitchen, so they must be treated with care. This includes storing them safely to minimise damage. Whether you are reorganising your kitchen utensils or want to declutter your life and place items in self-storage, here are our tips on storing knives in the short and long term.
Short-term storage of knives
When it comes to the short-term storage of knives, there is a range of options that are both safe and practical, including:
In-draw storage
This is an excellent option if your priority is keeping your knives safely out of reach of children. However, it doesn’t mean tossing your knives in with other kitchen utensils, as this can cause the blades to become dull or damaged. Specially designed knife trays, ideally made from a softer material like plastic, will ensure each of your knives has its own space and will stay sharper in the long run.
Slotted knife blocks
These are a great way of storing your knives conveniently and in a confined space, typically on your kitchen bench. If you bought your knives as a set, manufacturers will also often sell knife blocks specifically designed for the shape and size of their product range. This means movement and potential damage will be minimised.
Slotless knife blocks
Not all knife blocks have slots, and slot-less styles are often easier to maintain and keep clean. These are often magnetic; the magnets should hold the blades securely, without coming into contact with the blades themselves. Apart from being visually attractive, they will give your knives access to airflow within a moisture-free environment. Cleaning these blocks is also a breeze — a simple wipe-down is usually all that’s needed.
Wall racks
There are also versions of magnetic knife holders that attach to the wall. Again, they offer a stylish, contemporary look, will give your knives access to airflow, and will save bench space. However, the magnetic rack must be suited to the weight of the knives you plan to attach. Many manufacturers offer these as part of a knife set, so you’ll be assured they’ll remain firmly fastened to the wall.
Knife rolls
A favourite accessory of professional chefs, home cooks are also embracing this culinary trend. The best knife rolls have multiple slots for knives of various sizes and are made of canvas or other heavy-duty materials like leather. As the name suggests, they roll up, so they can be easily stored in a safe place and are rugged and portable if you need to cook on the go.
Long-term storage of knives
In terms of long-term self-storage tips for knives, first consider how you can pack them safely and minimise them being damaged in transit. Secondly, consider how you will minimise their deterioration in self-storage, particularly from moisture — moisture plus metal equals rust! Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step #1 – Clean and dry your knives
Knife blades can be surprisingly delicate, particularly with more expensive brands. Start with laying your knives on a clean, dry surface with the blade facing away from you. Use a damp sponge or soft cloth to clean the blade, then repeat on the other side. Dry thoroughly. For knife handles, use a similar approach, unless they are wooden. In this case, dry immediately to avoid damage.
Step #2 – Group knives in similar sizes
Once knives are washed and dried, group them into similar sizes. Try to keep knives in groups of no bigger than five. If you have specialty knives that are more expensive or uniquely shaped, pack them individually.
Step #3 – Wrap in storage paper
Place some sheets of moving paper (acid-free tissue paper is ideal) onto a flat surface and spread the group of knives out at an equal distance on top of the paper. Roll up the bundle, ensuring a gap remains between each knife. This will minimise damage caused by friction.
Step #4 – Secure with packing tape
Secure bundles of knives with good-quality packing tape. Wrap it tightly around the roll to stop knives from moving around too much, but also at each end, which will prevent any knives from sliding out.
Step #5 – Add extra protection
Wrap each bundle with a layer of bubble wrap for extra protection and secure with packing tape. This will minimise damage from contact with heavier objects during the move.
Step #6 – Pack
Carefully place your packaged knives in an appropriately-sized moving box and fill any gaps with bubble wrap.
Step #7 – Label
Label the box. It’s also a good idea to include a warning that the box includes sharp objects.
References
- 2019, Don’t Damage Your Knives! 3 Ways To Store Them Correctly, House of Knives
- Kristy Alpert, 2020, Toss the Knife Block, Store Your Kitchen Knives One of These Ways Instead, Better Homes and Gardens
- 2018, How to Pack Knives For Moving – Tips for Packing Knives, Kent Removals & Storage