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!