Damascus is well-known for its contrasting marble light and dark designs made of different metals with unique properties. It is important to take good care of it, to ensure you don’t lose its details to rust. Overall, one should ensure that the blade stays dry but also sealed with a lubricating wax or oil layer to lock out excess moisture.
Here is how you can take care of your knife:
1. Be mindful of when and where you use your Damascus blade.
During manufacturing, the steel is chemically treated to reveal the unique patterns of the Damascus blades. This process involves both patterns welding and etching to bring out the details created during the welding process. This causes the different oxidation levels to show both dark (oxidized) and light/shiny patterns on the blade (resisting oxidation). Because of this, the blade is especially susceptible to damage when used on acidic foods (fruits, for example), wet/ humid environments.
2. Avoid abrasives, but keep your blade dry
Wash and dry your blade immediately after use (avoiding abrasives such as rough cloths, metal polishes, steel wool), taking care to not rub the blade roughly. Using an abrasive or metal cleaner may remove the etched oxidation that you want on a Damascus knife to show the pattern. Rather use softer materials such as a microfiber or a cotton cloth when drying to avoid wear on the blade.
If the etching is significantly altered, we recommend sending your blade back to the maker for re-etching service.
3. Lubricate carbon steel Damascus blades.
After cleaning and drying your knife, lubricate it with a wax or oil to prevent moisture from affecting the blade.
Most Damascus blades are made of high carbon steel, meaning they contain relatively low levels of chromium in the steel. Carbon steel (even Damascus carbon steel) can rust if not cared for properly.
You will need to make sure the blade remains clean and dry in order to prevent rust or discoloration.
4. Store it properly to keep it rust-free.
When you are not using your blade, make sure to keep it in a dry environment such as a box or padded zipper case, to protect it against humidity or temperature changes.
With that being said, you should also avoid using a dehumidifier bar in your storage container as excessive low humidity can cause natural materials, such as the wood in the handle, to crack.
Taking care of your Damascus blade will truly make your piece last the test of time. If your blade handle is made of a synthetic material, you won’t have to worry about humidity, just make sure the moisture doesn’t affect the blade. We suggest having a small cleaning kit in your storage item to make it easy, effortless and part of your routine! This doesn’t have to be anything fancy, the basics will do the trick!
