Siam Blades Knife Care and Blade Maintenance
Knife Care Guide
At Siam Blades, our knives are crafted from a variety of high-quality steels, from high carbon steel to stainless steel and unique steel mixtures that develop a patina. Here’s how to keep your blades in top condition.
General Knife Care
- Dry Immediately: Always dry your knife after use to prevent rust.
- Clean Regularly: Wipe the blade clean after each use.
- Oil Occasionally: Use mineral oil to maintain the blade and exotic hardwood handles.
Carbon Steels
Carbon steel knives develop a protective patina over time. Here’s how to care for them:
- Developing Patina: Cut acidic fruits like citrus to accelerate patina formation.
- Rust Prevention: If rust appears, remove it with a Scotch-Brite pad and some oil.
- Maintenance: Regularly apply mineral oil to the blade.
Stainless Steels
Stainless steel knives are more resistant to rust but still need proper care:
- Avoid Soaking: Never leave them soaking in water, as it can damage wooden handles.
- Dishwasher Warning: Do not put them in the dishwasher.
- Storage: Store in a knife block, wall rack, saya, or canvas/leather roll.
Sharpening Your Knife
Keep your knives sharp with these tips:
- Honing Rod: Use a smooth ceramic honing rod for regular maintenance.
- Sharpening Stones: For deep sharpening, use 500 grit and 2000 grit Shapton Glass stones.
- Learning to Sharpen: Practice sharpening with a cheap knife first. Check out this sharpening basics video by Don Nguyen.
Handle Care
Most of our knives have exotic hardwood handles that need occasional care:
- Oil Regularly: Use mineral oil or products like Axe Wax to keep handles in good shape.
Metal Care Tips
For various metals, follow these guidelines:
- Avoid Metal Contact: Prevent metals from contacting each other during cleaning.
- Immediate Cleaning: Wash and dry immediately after use.
- Dishwasher Caution: Avoid dishwashers, especially the heated dry cycle.
Specific Metals
Stainless Steel
Composition: Contains chromium, making it resistant to corrosion.
Care: Avoid soaking, and dry immediately after washing.
Carbon Steel
Care: Keep dry, use frequently, clean regularly, and oil periodically.
Rust Removal: Use a brush and light pressure, or metal polishes and natural remedies for tougher rust.
Damascus Steel
Care: Follow the guidelines for carbon and stainless steel care.
Titanium
Properties: Non-reactive, easy to clean, hypoallergenic, and non-magnetic.
Care: Simple cleaning and occasional oiling.
Copper, Brass, and Bronze
Oxidation: These metals oxidize naturally and can be polished easily.
Polishing: Use Cape Cod Polishing Cloths or a Scotch-Brite pad for a brushed look.
Tin
Gentle Cleaning: Soak in hot water with dish soap, and wipe clean with a soft cloth.
Darkening: Tin darkens with heat exposure, which is normal.
Pure Silver, Sterling Silver & Gold
Tarnish: Natural tarnishing can be removed with metal polishes like Cape Cod Polishing Cloths.
Wood
- Avoid Soaking: Never soak wooden handles.
- Hand Wash: Wash by hand and dry promptly.
- Oil Periodically: Oil to maintain glow and prevent drying.
Other Materials
Leather
Cleaning: Use mild soap, warm water, and a cloth. Rinse thoroughly and air dry.
Conditioning: Apply leather conditioner like Axe Wax after cleaning.
Glass
Cleaning: Use a soft cloth and mild soap. Hand wash and air dry.
Ceramic
Care: Wash with water and dish soap, and use a gentle cloth to clean.
Synthetic (Micarta, G10, Carbon Fiber)
Cleaning: Use a gentle cloth, warm water, and dish soap. Towel dry.
Final Tips
Initial Cleaning: Always wash a new tool before its first use.
Contact Us: For any questions or issues, feel free to contact us anytime.
Enjoy your custom blade from Siam Blades!