We all have or have seen the old wooden knife block on the kitchen counter. Many knife sets are even sold with a wooden knife block as an accessory when you buy them. Sometimes, what has always been done is not always the best option.
Walk into any reputable restaurant kitchen and you will not likely see a single wooden knife block. Instead, along the walls and over the cutting boards you will see knives hanging from a magnetic bar. A magnetic bar has many advantages over a traditional knife block.
Germ Prevention
The first and foremost reason to get rid of that old wooden knife block is to prevent germs in the kitchen. Knives fit snugly into the wood, and this means that any knife put always slightly wet can make the wood damp. Any knife that was accidently put away dirty could have left food contaminates inside the knife block as well.
The dark, damp environment is a perfect breeding ground for germs, molds and fungus. Since there is no way to open up the knife block, there is no way to get the inside of it clean. This means that you could be using a contaminated knife to cut your food.
Corrosion
Along with germs that can be bred in a dark damp environment, rust can also be an issue. Again, if knives were put away wet, the wood will hold the moisture. Since the holes in the wood to store the knives are small, with a knife in place, it can be nearly impossible for the inside of the block to dry out.
When this happens, knives are kept in a hostile environment that could lead to corrosion. Nothing can ruin an expensive knife faster than rust.
Space Savings
In some kitchens, counter space is prime real estate. Having a nice set of knives in a large wooden block can take up a lot of that space. Why waste it when you can use the wall instead. A magnetic knife rack mounts to the wall wherever you would like, and keep the knives up and off the counter.
Out of the Reach of Children
Little hands can find their way onto a counter. This means that they could accidentally pull that wooden knife block down and get hurt.A magnetic knife holder will allow you to keep the knives up and out of the reach of the kids so that only you can use them when you need them.
A magnetic knife rack is a great alternative for your cutlery storage. HS Magnets sells a variety of magnetic bars that would be perfect for your kitchen needs. Check them out today!
