How to Care for Carbon Steel Knives

Carbon steel is an iron-based metal used for kitchen and survival knives. This type of steel holds a sharp edge but requires more care than stainless steel metal. Carbon steel has more carbon content, making it harder than stainless steel, but also more prone to oxidation. Folding knives will require additional care to keep them in working condition. Kitchen knives need special care to reduce damage from normal wear and tear.

• 1

  Wipe the blade clean with a cotton cloth after each use. Apply a light oil to the cotton cloth regularly to remove any tarnish before it spreads

• 2

  Apply oil to the hinge area of a folding knife to keep the mechanism clean and functioning. Use a cutting board made of soft material such as wood or plastic to prevent damage to the blade whenever possible.

• 3

  Sharpen the blade regularly with a sharpening steel. Store knives in a dry location where they are not bumping against each other or any hard surface.