Q&A for How to Clean a Knife

If you are using a carbon steel knife, yes. The oil helps keep the knife from rusting.

Hot water and soap. Then towel dry the knife and allow it to fully air dry, if possible.

Either use milk, or, if you have it available, make a very thick paste of baking soda and water. Dip a dish brush in vinegar, and use that to scrub the knife. Then rinse that off, and wash with hot water and soap as usual.

Soak the knives in hot water with soap for a couple of minutes, then use a dishwashing brush and/or sponge to wipe the "stuff" off.

Same as above. Wash and clean each knife individually; you don't want them bumping and scraping each other in the sink. Dry each knife thoroughly and lubricate.

I think it would be better if you sharpened the knife and then cleansed it instead of having the misfortune of the patina eating away the knife.

No. Same as above, use warm water and soap. Use a sponge or brush if necessary. After cleaning, dry thoroughly. Olive or vegetable oil may be used on knives used on food (to lubricate/protect the knife).

Use mild dish soap and warm water to gently wash the knife. A soft brush or cloth can help reach tight spaces without scratching it. Rinse thoroughly to ensure all soap and oil are washed off, then dry immediately with a soft towel, especially around the moving parts. After cleaning, apply a small amount of knife or mineral oil to the pivot area to help with smooth operation.

First, ensure the knife is completely cool to avoid burns. Soak the blade in warm, soapy water to loosen residue. Make a paste of baking soda and water and gently scrub the burnt area with a soft sponge. For tougher stains, soak a cloth in white vinegar, wrap it around the blade for an hour, then scrub gently. Rinse thoroughly and dry the knife immediately to prevent rust.

Use a damp cloth to wipe down the blade. If it's very dirty, you can use mild soapy water. Immediately dry the blade with a clean, dry cloth to prevent rust. Depending on the handle material (wood, bone, etc.), just a damp cloth should do. If it's wooden, a bit of mineral oil can keep it in good condition. For stubborn stains, a paste of baking soda and water can help; gently scrub and rinse.

Yes, you can soak a folding knife without disassembling it, but be cautious. Soak it for a few minutes in warm, soapy water, open the knife to ensure water reaches the joints, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely to prevent rust.

Cleaning a foldable karambit follows similar principles to other knives but requires extra steps due to its unique shape and moving parts.

Fill your sink with hot water and add a squirt of dish soap. Let the knives and spoons soak for a few minutes. Use a non-abrasive sponge or dishcloth to scrub away the dirt and grease, applying more pressure if needed. Rinse them under warm water to remove any soap residue. For extra grease, wipe them with a cloth dipped in white vinegar. Dry immediately with a clean dish towel, or let them air dry to prevent water spots and rust.