Proper maintenance of knife sharpening accessories – especially sharpeners and whetstones – allows them to maintain their effectiveness and extend their lifespan by several years. Although these tools are solid and made of high-quality materials, improper storage and maintenance neglect can result in a rapid deterioration of their performance parameters. Therefore, it is worth knowing the basic rules for caring for sharpeners and whetstones that will allow them to maintain their functionality for a long time.
In the following article, we will discuss in detail how to properly maintain various types of sharpeners and whetstones, what methods are worth using when cleaning them, and what to definitely avoid to not shorten their lifespan.
Basic rules for using whetstones
For whetstones to last for many years, it is crucial to use them according to their intended purpose and to follow basic usage rules. The first and most important rule is to properly prepare the stone before sharpening. Whetstones require soaking – the soaking time depends on their grit and the material they are made of. Usually, about 5-15 minutes is enough for the stone to be completely soaked with water and ready for work.
The second important aspect is using the right amount of force during sharpening. Too much pressure can cause premature wear of the stone’s surface, creating depressions and unevenness that will require additional leveling. Therefore, you should ensure the even wear of the stone’s surface by systematically changing the sharpening zones and avoiding intense pressure in one place.
An important issue is also regular rinsing of the stone during work, which allows for the removal of the resulting sediment and metal particles. Leaving these impurities can result in a deterioration of the stone’s effectiveness and accelerated wear. Proper use significantly reduces the need for frequent surface leveling, which contributes to the stone’s longevity.
How to properly clean and dry whetstones?
After sharpening, whetstones require proper cleaning and drying. Leaving the stone wet or with dirt can lead to its premature damage, cracking, or the growth of unwanted microorganisms on its surface. The best cleaning method is to rinse the stone under running, lukewarm water, while gently removing dirt with a soft brush or sponge.
It’s important to avoid detergents or chemical agents when cleaning, as they can damage the stone’s structure or change its abrasive properties. After thorough cleaning, the stone should be dried with a clean cloth, and then left to dry completely in a well-ventilated place. Complete drying is essential to avoid the formation of mold and to protect the stone from cracking.
If the stone is used frequently, it’s also worth periodically using special flattening plates or diamond stones, which will help keep its surface perfectly flat. Thanks to this, the whetstone will maintain its effectiveness and will serve for a long time.
Maintenance of diamond and ceramic sharpeners
Diamond and ceramic sharpeners also require proper maintenance, although it is simpler than in the case of whetstones. Diamond sharpeners can be washed under running water without fear, using a delicate brush to remove metal deposits. After cleaning, they should be carefully dried, because moisture left on the surface can cause corrosion and destruction of the diamond particles.
In the case of ceramic sharpeners, it’s especially important to regularly remove the dirt that builds up during sharpening, which can clog the pores of the ceramic material, reducing sharpening efficiency. Ceramic sharpeners can be washed with water and a mild detergent, and then carefully rinsed and left to dry. From time to time, it’s worth wiping them with a sponge soaked in alcohol, which will help remove any more difficult dirt and degrease the surface.
Diamond and ceramic sharpeners are best stored in dry, well-ventilated places. Thanks to this, they will maintain their abrasive properties and will be safe for the user for many years.
What to avoid when storing and maintaining sharpeners?
When maintaining sharpeners and whetstones, it’s also worth remembering the mistakes that should be avoided to not shorten their lifespan. One of the most common mistakes is leaving sharpening tools wet or damp, which can cause corrosion, mold, and cracking of the materials. It is equally harmful to use detergents that are too aggressive, which can destroy the structure of the stone or sharpener.
You should also not allow whetstones to be stored in sealed containers without first drying. This can lead to the formation of unpleasant odors, the growth of mold, and even cracking of the stones. It’s also important to avoid dropping sharpeners and stones, as they can suffer permanent structural damage.
Regular and proper maintenance of sharpening accessories, such as whetstones and sharpeners, allows you to enjoy their effectiveness and durability for many years. By following the basic rules of use, proper cleaning, and storage, these tools will become a reliable support for every enthusiast of sharp cutting.
