Cleaning and Storing Your Shun Knife
Your Shun knife is built to last a lifetime — but only if you look after it properly. A few simple habits after every use will keep the blade sharp, the edge chip-free, and the handle looking its best for years to come.
Washing: Always by Hand
Shun blades should always be handwashed with a gentle dish soap.
- Avoid citrus-based soaps — they can promote rust.
- Skip scouring pads, steel wool, or gritty cleansers — these can scratch and damage the blade.
- Never let your knife soak in the sink. Metal doesn't respond well to prolonged contact with water, even soapy water.
Drying: Do It Straight Away
This is the step that matters most for long-term blade health.
Rinse your knife and towel dry it immediately, then let it air dry for a few minutes before putting it away. Leaving moisture on the cutting edge weakens the stainless steel and can lead to micro-corrosion — tiny chips or missing pieces along the edge. Even normal, everyday use can cause damage if the edge has been repeatedly left wet.
Tip: When drying the blade, keep your fingers well clear of the cutting edge.
Storing: Keep the Edge Protected
Once your knife is clean and completely dry, store it somewhere that protects the blade:
- A knife block
- A knife case
- An in-drawer knife tray
- A sheath
- A wooden or magnetic knife holder
Avoid tossing knives loose into a drawer. It's a risk to both the blade and your fingers.
Caring for the Handle
Handwashing isn't just good for the blade — it's the best way to care for your Shun's wood handle too.
The wood is stabilised, but it's still natural, so a little movement over time is normal:
- It may shrink slightly in very dry conditions and swell slightly in humid ones.
- The colour may change gradually, from natural oils in your hands and from light exposure over time.
This isn't a fault — it's simply how natural wood behaves.
Quick Recap
- Handwash with gentle, non-citrus soap.
- Dry immediately — don't let it air dry in the rack.
- Store it properly — never loose in a drawer.
- Expect natural, gradual changes in the wood handle over time.
Look after your Shun knife this way, and it'll stay a reliable part of your kitchen for years to come.