Why not air-dry knives?
I've read that one should hand-wash knives, and I mostly buy that. I've also seen advice that one should dry them immediately and put them away.
Why shouldn't knives air-dry? Aside from the unsightly water stains, is there any downside to letting knives air-dry?
Edit: We have Henckel full-tang knives. Rust is a real concern -- we had them sharpened, and the shop did a lousy job -- the edges are ragged.
Best Answer
It's to prevent rust. Rust requires oxygen and water to form. The longer you leave your knives wet or damp the more likely you are to develop rust.
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How should you dry knives?
Never put your knife in the dishwasher or leave it soaking in water. Dry your knife completely using an absorbent towel. We find paper towels work the best. We recommend storing your knives on a magnetic wooden strip, keeping it protected in a saya, or storing them in your knife roll or wrap.Why do knives have to be hand washed?
The hot water, abrasive detergent and jostling motion of the dishwasher easily damages and can even break your knives. To prevent your knives from weakening over time and potentially causing injury, always wash your knives by hand.Does leaving a knife in water dull it?
But the sink is not only a dangerous spot (hard-to-see-through water doesn't mix well with a sharp object), leaving your knife there can lead to rust. 3. Never put them away wet. It's the same concept: Wet knives can lead to rust, so save yourself time and money by drying your knives before storing them.More answers regarding why not air-dry knives?
Answer 2
Another concern, if you knives have wooden handles, is warping.
Answer 3
Water stains, rusting (depending on the sort of knife you have).
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