How to Clean and Store Cheese Knives Properly

By WÜSTHOF - Official Online Store | Published: 2026-10-17

Category: Tips & Care

Learn the right way to clean and store your cheese knives to keep them sharp and rust-free. Simple steps for soft cheese knives like the WÜSTHOF Gourmet 5" Cheese Knife.

Quick Answer

Hand wash your cheese knife immediately after use with mild soap and warm water, then dry it completely before storing. Never put it in the dishwasher, and store it on a magnetic holder or in a knife block with the blade protected.

Why Cheese Knives Need Special Care

Cheese knives, especially those designed for soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert, have thin, narrow blades with holes to prevent sticky cheese from clinging. The WÜSTHOF Gourmet 5" Cheese Knife is a perfect example: its sharp, thin blade glides through creamy cheese without crushing it, but that delicate edge and the holes require gentle handling. Harsh cleaning or poor storage can dull the blade quickly or cause rust around the holes.

Step-by-Step Cheese Knife Care

Rinse Immediately After Use: Run the blade under warm water to remove cheese residue before it dries. Use your thumb to gently push any stuck cheese out of the blade holes. Common mistake: letting cheese dry on the blade makes cleaning harder and can dull the edge.
Hand Wash with Mild Soap: Use a soft sponge and mild dish soap. Wash the blade and handle carefully, paying extra attention to the holes. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that can scratch the blade. Checkpoint: never put a cheese knife in the dishwasher. The high heat and harsh detergent can damage the blade and handle.
Dry Thoroughly: Dry the knife immediately with a soft cloth. Make sure the holes are completely dry by blotting with the cloth or letting air circulate through them. Common mistake: leaving the knife wet, especially around the holes, can cause rust spots.
Store with Blade Protection: Place the knife on a magnetic holder like the WÜSTHOF 12" Magnetic Holder, or in a knife block with the blade facing up. Never toss it loose in a drawer. Checkpoint: a magnetic holder keeps the blade visible and prevents accidental contact with other utensils.

Product That Helps

Gourmet 5" Cheese Knife: The narrow, sharp blade glides through soft cheeses without pulling or crushing. Classic holes in the blade ensure stickier cheese does not cling. The thin blade and holes make this knife excellent for soft cheese, but they also mean you need to clean gently around the holes to avoid food residue buildup and potential rust.