Laguiole Knives are an excellent way to show your appreciation of timeless design, quality craftsmanship, and a commitment to excellence. These knives, which are far more than simple tools, are art pieces and require special care to preserve their beauty. To ensure longevity and maintain performance, it is crucial to perform daily maintenance. This article will show you the daily steps to maintaining your Laguiole and keeping it in great condition.
Step 1: Clean Your Knife After Each Use
It is important to clean your Laguiole Knife after each use. After using the Laguiole to cut fruits, meats, or anything else, cleaning any residue off of the handle and blade is vital to prevent staining.
Following these steps will help you clean your knife.
- Clean the Blade: Clean the blade with running, warm water. Wipe the blade down carefully with a soft cloth or sponge. Be sure to remove any food particles. Avoid using abrasive items, as they may scratch the blade.
- Avoid soaking: Though it may seem appealing to soak the blade in water, particularly if stubborn residue is left on it, it is best to refrain from this practice. Prolonged exposure can lead to rusting and damaging the handle. This is especially true if you are using wood or another natural material.
- Dry Thoroughly: Dry the blade with a clean cloth following a thorough rinse. You should pay particular attention to the handle of the knife, as well as any joints and crevices where moisture can accumulate. The knife will rust if it is not completely dry.
Step 2: Oil The Blades And Pivots Regularly
Laguiole blades require regular oiling to maintain their sharpness. Regular oiling can help protect the blade, especially if it is in a moist environment or you use it with acidic meals.
How to Oil Your Knife:
- Choose a Food-Safe Oil: When choosing an oil for a knife, select one that is safe to eat. Mineral oil or camellia are good choices. These oils are perfect for protecting the blade without altering the flavor of the food.
- Apply the Smallest Amount: Using a soft cloth and a cotton swab, apply a very small amount of lubricant to the blade. Do not forget to oil any moving parts or the entire surface of the blade.
- Regular Oiling: The frequency of oiling your knife will depend on how often it is used. You can aim to do this every few weeks or after each use. If the blade looks dull or stiff on the pivot, give it another oiling.
Step 3: Store Your Knife Correctly
Laguiole Knives require proper storage. How you keep your knife will greatly impact its performance. Following these guidelines will help you to safely store your knife.
- Use of a Knife block or Case: Store your knives in a special knife case or a dedicated block. This protects the knife blade against damage and prevents it from coming into contact with any other utensils.
- Stay away from moisture: Store the knife in a cool, dry area. Excessive moisture can cause the knife to rust or damage its handle. If you live somewhere humid, place a small desiccant bag in your storage area to absorb moisture.
- Protect It from Extreme Temperatures: Never store your blade in an area that experiences extreme temperatures. This includes areas near stoves and in cars. Extreme heat will warp your blade and damage the handle. Cold can also make the metal brittle.
Step 4: Sharpen Regularly
Even with the most careful care, your Laguiole Knife will eventually require sharpening. A sharp blade makes your knife more efficient and safe.
- Use High-Quality Sharpening Tools: Invest in high-quality sharpening stones or honing metals. These tools help you maintain an edge on your blade without removing much material.
- Sharpen At The Correct Angle: Laguiole knives typically have an exact sharpening angle. If you want to keep the blade’s effectiveness and design, ensure that this angle is maintained when sharpening.
- Regular Retouches: Touch the blade regularly with honed steel rather than wait until it becomes dull. This will help keep the edge and reduce your need for frequent sharpenings.
Conclusion
Laguiole’s daily maintenance is simple and pays off long-term. You’ll be able to keep your Laguiole blade in good condition for years by taking the time to properly clean, oil, store, and sharpen it. Remember that your Laguiole knives are more than just utensils; they’re works of art. They deserve respect and care. Its elegance and functionality can be enjoyed daily with proper daily maintenance.
