A short guide about why your knives can’t go in the dishwasher.
Handmade kitchen knives are unique and special creations that are made with care and attention to detail. These knives are often made with high-quality materials and are designed to be used and enjoyed for many years (Hopefully a lifetime if cared for). However, one thing that handmade kitchen knives cannot do is go in the dishwasher. Here are a few reasons why:
- Dishwasher detergents can be harsh: Dishwasher detergents are designed to remove tough stains and grime from dishes, and they can be quite harsh on materials that aren’t your standard pots and pans or plastic moulded potato peeler. Handmade kitchen knives are often made with high-carbon steel or other materials that can be damaged by the harsh chemicals found in dishwasher detergents.
- Dishwashers can dull the blade: The high temperatures ,intense water pressure and mentioned detergents can have an abrasive property on the blade, often dulling your hand crafted creation. This can affect the knife's performance and make it less effective at cutting and slicing. Furthermore causing the blade to need to be sharpened more regularly and reducing the overall life.
- Dishwashers can damage the handle: Many handmade kitchen knives have beautiful and intricate handles that are made with materials such as wood, bone, or antler. These materials can be damaged by the heat and moisture found in a dishwasher, which can cause them to crack or warp. Long periods of time submerged in water for materials like wood strip them of the oils protecting the timber and dry them out faster then needed.
- Hand washing is more effective: While it may be more convenient to toss your handmade kitchen knife into the dishwasher, hand washing is actually more effective at cleaning and preserving the knife. Simply rinse the knife off with warm water and a mild soap, and then dry it off with a clean cloth. This will help to keep the blade sharp and the handle in good condition.
Overall, handmade kitchen knives are beautiful and special creations that deserve to be treated with care. While it may be tempting to throw them in the dishwasher for a quick and easy clean, this can actually damage the knife and shorten its lifespan. Instead, it is best to hand wash your handmade kitchen knife to keep it in top condition for years to come.
