The Right Way to Clean a Knife Block—and Why You Must

If you walk into any home kitchen, you’ll likely see a knife block on the counter. Home cooks typically need at least three essential knives, and most people have many more; a knife block is a convenient way to store them. Wooden, bamboo, or plastic knife blocks with multiple slots are very stable and offer specific locations for each blade, keeping knives safe, easy to access, and easy to store. While you may know how to keep your knives safe and sharp, it’s not as obvious how to keep knife blocks clean, and the importance of doing so. We spoke to a knife expert and a cleaning expert to get the lowdown.

Why Cleaning a Knife Block Is Difficult

“Knife storage blocks can be difficult to clean because the narrow-slotted openings for the blades can be hard to reach. Food particles and moisture can get trapped inside, creating an environment where mold could potentially grow,” explains Henry Liu, founder and CEO of Cangshan Cutlery Co. Just rinsing it out is not an option because, Liu explains, too much water can cause warping.

How Often to Clean a Knife Block

Because you can’t see inside a knife block, it’s hard to know when it needs cleaning. “Ideally, you should clean your knife block once a month to prevent buildup. However, if you frequently use and store damp knives, consider cleaning it more often," says Alicia Sokolowski, green cleaning expert and president and co-CEO of AspenClean.

How to Clean a Knife Block

Sokolowski shares the following steps for cleaning a knife block:

1. Empty the knife block: Remove all knives and set them aside.
2. Remove any debris: Use a vacuum nozzle to remove loose crumbs and dust inside the slots.
3. Wash the exterior: Use a damp microfiber cloth and mild dish soap to wipe down the outer surface.
4. Clean the slots: Mix warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap. Dip a small bottle brush into the soapy water and scrub inside each slot.
5. Disinfect the slots: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water, then use to wipe the slots with a clean brush or cloth.
6. Wipe away any soap residue: Use a damp cloth to remove any soap.
7. Air dry: Let the block dry completely before reinserting the knives to prevent mold growth.

What the Experts Want You to Know

Put knives in the knife block only when they are clean and dry: Liu says this is the most important tip for keeping a knife block clean. He notes this is critical to keeping your block clean and sanitary. Sokolowski agrees, saying, "Inserting damp knives encourages mold and bacteria growth inside the slots."

For a less involved cleaning you can do more frequently: Sokolowski recommends using a bottle brush or pipe cleaner, explaining, these tools can reach deep into the slots for a thorough clean. 

Use the right cleaning liquid: A mild dish detergent effectively removes grease and grime without harsh chemicals, says Sokolowski. Alternatively, use white vinegar, which is great for deep cleaning and a natural disinfectant that helps kill bacteria. It's also great for neutralizing odors, she says.

Avoid abrasive scrubbers: While cleaning is important, so is a gentle touch on your knife block. Sokolowski says abrasive scrubbers may scratch and weaken the surface over time. 

Maintain your knife block: In addition to cleaning it, Sokolowski reminds us to take care of our knife block, noting that if it is wooden, you should apply a food-safe mineral oil to prevent it from drying out and cracking.