I was in the thrift store looking at the used cutlery. I was looking for a small knife to take to work to cut fruit, cheese and other food with. The handles were loose, the wood bleached. All the knife handles looked old and dingy. Most of the blades looked near new, I realised that very few people know how to care for a knife. They use it leave it on the counter after they use it and when they do the dishes they toss it in the sink or dishwasher with the rest of the dirty dishes.
Knifes with wood handles need different care.They should never be submerged in soap and water and left to drown in a sink. The finish will soften, the wood will swell with water and when it drys shrink. This will cause the handle to become lose. Then the knife is on the way to destruction.
A wood handled knife should be cleaned as soon a you are done using it. It should never be soaked in a sink or placed in a dishwasher. The blade should be wiped clean. The handle needs to be kept dry. The handle can be wiped with a damp cloth. If you clean the knife as soon as you use it the handle will stay tight and keep its luster, the blade will be bright. If you have a good old knife made before stainless steal. Be sure to put a fine coat of cooking oil on the blade. You get a soft cloth of paper towel put a drop of cooking oil on it then rub the blade with it. This will keep it from rusting. Last of all be sure you do not toss the knife in a drawer and let it rattle around with all spoons and forks. A knife should have a sheath or knife rack to keep it in. This will protect the edge of the blade and you will not have to sharpen it as often. This care works for any knife. If you take care of the tool it should last your lifetime and be something you can pass on.
