Do I Need to Get My Knives Professionally Sharpened?
Introduction
Knives are an essential tool in any kitchen, but they can quickly become dull if they're not properly cared for. A dull knife is not only more difficult to use, but it can also be dangerous because they're unpredictable - you don't know how much force to use and it requires a lot of force. If you're not sure how to sharpen your knives, or if you don't have the time or patience to do it yourself, you may be wondering if you should get them professionally sharpened.
In this post, we'll discuss the pros and cons of professional knife sharpening, and we'll provide some tips on how to find a reputable service. We'll also share some tips on how to keep your knives sharp at home.
Do I Need to Get My Knives Professionally Sharpened?
There are a few factors to consider when deciding whether or not to get your knives professionally sharpened.
- The frequency of use: If you use your knives frequently, they will need to be sharpened more often. A professional sharpener can help you keep your knives sharp and in good condition.
- The type of knives: Some knives are more difficult to sharpen than others. If you have a set of high-quality knives, you may want to have them professionally sharpened to ensure that they are sharpened properly.
- Your own skills and experience: If you don't have the time or patience to sharpen your knives yourself, or if you're not confident in your ability to do it correctly, you may want to consider having them professionally sharpened.
- Your cutting surface: If you use harder cutting surfaces, like glass, your knives will dull faster than if using an optimal cutting board, like an endgrain board.
- Saving knives from the landfill: Sharpening is better for most persons than tossing dull knives in the landfill.
How to Find a Reputable Knife Sharpening Service
If you decide to have your knives professionally sharpened, it's important to find a reputable service. Here are a few tips:
- Ask your friends, family, or co-workers for recommendations.
- Check online reviews.
- Look for a service that offers a satisfaction guarantee.
- Find one that provides service by mail so you don't have to run the errand.
How to Keep Your Knives Sharp at Home
If you're not comfortable having your knives sharpened, or if you simply prefer to do it yourself, there are a few things you can do to keep your knives sharp at home.
- Use a honing steel: A honing steel/rod is a long, metal or ceramic rod that is used to align the cutting edge of your blades. This will help to keep your knives sharper longer and prevent them from becoming dull. However, use them correctly because using rods incorrectly will dull your knives.
- Use a sharpening stone: A sharpening stone is a tool that is used to grind away metal from the blade of a knife. This will make the blade sharper, but it is important to use a sharpening stone correctly in order to avoid damaging your knife. It can take numerous hours over months of time to get reasonably good at sharpening with stones.
- Avoid using dull knives: Dull knives are more likely to slip and cause injuries and they require more force to "cut" or rather smoosh your food. If your knives are dull, it's best to have them sharpened or to use a different knife.
Conclusion
Whether you choose to have your knives professionally sharpened or to do it yourself, it's important to keep them sharp in order to ensure safety and efficiency. A sharp knife makes for food prep to be more delightful as well as keeps flavors in the food. By following the tips in this post, you can keep your knives sharper for longer and in good condition for your next cooking adventure.
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few additional tips and tricks for keeping your knives sharp:
- Store your knives in a safe dry place where they will not be damaged by coming into contact with other knives or utensils.
- Avoid cutting on hard surfaces, such as countertops or glass cutting boards.
- Clean your knives by hand after each use - not the dishwasher.
- Oil your knives to maintain any wood's condition and to create an O2 buffer on carbon knives.
By following these tips, you can help to extend the life of your knives and keep them sharper longer and in good condition.