As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases with no additional costs for you.
Protecting a knife’s handle is part of the routine maintenance and care of your knives. Many knife owners neglect the care of the handle in preference to caring for the blade. However, care of the handle is as important as for the blade. Wood stands out for its natural beauty, comfort, and grip among the various materials used for knife handles. However, wooden knife handles require special care, particularly regarding waterproofing.
Wood knife handles must be waterproofed to protect them from the negative effects of water and high-moisture environments. Food-safe oils, wax, or sealants are all excellent methods for achieving this goal. The conditions the knife is used in may affect your choice of waterproofing options.
We have created this guide to explore the importance of waterproofing wooden knife handles, investigate the best methods for sealing them, and provide practical tips on caring for knives with wooden handles. Whether you’re a professional chef, a hobbyist cook, or a knife enthusiast, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to keep your wooden knife handles in top-notch condition.
If you like the natural look of wood on kitchen knife handles, we recommend you take a look at the Natura set of kitchen knives. You can find a set here. (Amazon Link)
How To Protect Wood Knife Handles From Water
Waterproofing a wooden knife handle is not just about maintaining its aesthetic appeal, but it’s also crucial for the longevity and functionality of the knife.
When wooden handles are exposed to moisture without proper protection, they can warp, crack, or even rot, leading to a loose grip and potentially dangerous situations.
Knowing the best methods to care for wood knife handles requires a basic understanding of wood knife handles and their characteristics.
Understanding Wooden Knife Handles
It is essential to understand the different types of wooden knife handles and their unique properties. This knowledge will help you choose the right waterproofing method and enhance your appreciation for these knife handles made from beautiful wood.
Wooden knife handles are favored by many for their comfort, grip, and aesthetic appeal. They come in various types, each with its unique characteristics, and understanding these can help you care for your knives better.
Let’s explore some of the most common types of wood used in knife handles in our ultimate guide to knife handle materials.
Hardwood Knife Handles
Hardwoods like maple, walnut, and oak are commonly used for knife handles due to their durability and resistance to wear.
These woods have a dense grain structure, making them less prone to cracking or warping. However, they can still absorb moisture if not properly sealed, leading to potential damage over time.
Exotic Wood Handles
Exotic woods like cocobolo, ebony, and rosewood are often used for high-end knives due to their striking colors and patterns.
These woods are generally harder and denser than common hardwoods, offering excellent durability. However, they can be more challenging to care for and may require special waterproofing techniques.
Olive Wood Knives
Olive wood is a popular choice for knife handles due to its beautiful grain patterns and warm color. It’s also relatively hard and dense, making it durable and wear-resistant. However, like all wooden handles, olive wood knife handles must be properly waterproofed to prevent damage from moisture.
Composite Wood Handles
Composite wood handles, such as Micarta and Dymondwood, are made by impregnating layers of wood with resin under high pressure.
This process creates a material that’s extremely durable, water-resistant, and easy to care for. While these handles are more water-resistant than natural wood, they can still benefit from regular maintenance and care.
TIP: Are you looking to buy a new whetstone? Check out our recommendations (we personally use the first three ones):
Our PRO choice whetstones combo (Amazon links):
- Fixing stone: Whetstone SHAPTON Ceramic KUROMAKU #320
- Sharpening stone: Suehiro CERAX soaking whetstone: Medium #1000
- Finishing stone: Whetstone SHAPTON Ceramic KUROMAKU #5000
Our budget choice (Amazon link): Sharp Pebble Extra Large Sharpening Stone Set
Why Waterproofing Wood Knife Handles Is Essential
Waterproofing wooden knife handles is essential in maintaining their functionality, aesthetics, and longevity. Despite the natural beauty and comfort of wooden handles, they are susceptible to damage when exposed to moisture.
This is particularly true for natural wood knife handles, which can absorb water, leading to various issues and the degradation of the handle.
Effects Of Water On Wooden Knife Handles
Water is not friendly to wood, and if the wood is not protected from excessive moisture, the wooden knife handle can suffer as a result. Several things can occur when wooden knife handles come into contact with water.
- Swelling and warping. Wood is a natural hygroscopic material, meaning it absorbs water from its surroundings. When it does, it swells, and this can cause the handle to warp or change shape, affecting the grip and balance of the knife.
- Cracking and splitting. As the wood dries out after being wet, it can shrink unevenly, leading to cracks and splits. This not only ruins the aesthetic of the handle but can also create sharp edges that make the knife uncomfortable or even dangerous to use.
- Rot and mold. If the wood stays wet for too long, it can start to rot or develop mold. This can lead to a musty smell, discoloration, and eventually, structural failure of the handle.
TIP: Storing your knives correctly is an important consideration in knife care and maintenance. Read our post on the topic of top knife storage tips to keep your knives in peak condition!
Storing Knives in a Drawer: 7 Ideas How to Do It Properly
Importance Of Waterproofing Wooden Knife Handles
Waterproofing helps to seal the wood, preventing water absorption and the associated problems. It can extend the lifespan of the knife, maintain its aesthetic appeal, and ensure a comfortable and safe grip.
Whether you’re dealing with common hardwoods, exotic woods, or special cases like olive wood knives, waterproofing is a crucial part of care and maintenance.
In the next section, we will explore the best methods for sealing wood knife handles, providing step-by-step instructions to ensure your knives stay in top condition for years to come.
Best Methods For Sealing Wood Knife Handles
Now that we understand the importance of waterproofing wooden knife handles, let’s explore the best methods for sealing them. These methods will help you season and waterproof your knife handle, ensuring it stays in top condition for longer.
Method 1: Using Oil On Wood Knife Handles
One of the most common methods for waterproofing wooden knife handles is using oil. This process is often referred to as “seasoning” the handle. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using oil as a waterproofing method on your wood knife handles.
- Clean the handle. Clean the handle with a soft cloth to remove dirt or grime.
- Apply the oil. Rub a thin layer of the oil on the knife handle. You can use various oils for this, including mineral oil, tung oil, or linseed oil.
- Allow it to soak. Allow the oil time to soak into the wood handle. This can be a few hours or even overnight.
- Wipe off excess oil. After the oil has soaked in, wipe off any excess with a soft, clean cloth.
Method 2: Using Wax On Wood Knife Handles
Another effective method for sealing wood knife handles is using wax. This can provide a more durable and water-resistant finish than oil. Here’s how to do it.
- Clean the handle. As with the oil method, start by cleaning the handle.
- Apply the wax. Next, apply a layer of wax to the handle. You can use a product like beeswax or a specialized wood wax.
- Buff the handle. After the wax has dried, buff the handle with a soft cloth to create an even, smooth, shiny finish.
Method 3: Using A Sealant On Wood Knife Handles
You can use a sealant like polyurethane or varnish for a more permanent solution. This can provide a highly water-resistant finish, but it may alter the feel and appearance of the handle. Here’s the process.
- Clean the handle. Again, start by cleaning the handle.
- Apply the sealant. Using a brush, apply a thin sealant layer to the handle.
- Let it dry. Allow the sealant to dry completely. This can take several hours or even overnight.
- Sand the handle. Once the sealant is dry, lightly sand the handle with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any bumps or drips.
- Apply additional coats. For extra protection, you can apply additional coats of sealant. Just be sure to let each coat dry and sand it smooth before applying the next.
We have summarized these methods in a table to compare the methods conveniently.
| Method | Steps | Pros | Cons |
| Using Oil | Clean the handle, apply oil, let it soak, and wipe off excess | Easy to apply, enhances the natural beauty of the wood | Needs to be reapplied regularly |
| Using Wax | Clean the handle, apply wax, buff the handle | Provides a durable, water-resistant finish | Can be more time-consuming to apply |
| Using a Sealant | Clean the handle, apply sealant, let it dry, sand the handle, and apply additional coats. | Provides a highly water-resistant finish and doesn’t need to be reapplied often. | It can alter the feel and appearance of the handle. |
TIP: Damaged knives can sometimes be salvaged rather than discarded. If you have a knife with a bent tip, try one of our expert tips in the article below to fix your knife!
Can You Fix A Bent Knife Tip? Try These 4 Simple Methods
Maintaining Your Waterproofed Knife Handle
Waterproofing your wooden knife handle is just the first step. Regular handle maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity and functionality of your knives. Below are some practical tips on how to care for your waterproofed knife handle.
- Regular cleaning. Even with a waterproof finish, keeping your knife handle clean is important. After each use, wipe the handle with a soft, clean, dry cloth to remove any dirt or grime. Avoid using water or a wet cloth, as this can wear down the waterproof finish over time.
- Periodic reapplication. Over time, the waterproof finish on your knife handle may wear down, especially with regular use. To maintain water resistance, you should periodically reapply the finish. The frequency will depend on the type of finish and how often you use the knife, but as a general rule, once a year is a good starting point.
- Proper storage. Proper storage is also important for maintaining your waterproofed knife handle. Avoid storing your knives in damp or humid locations, as this can cause the wood to absorb moisture, even with a waterproof finish. Instead, store your knives in a dry, cool place. A knife block or a wall-mounted magnetic knife strip is a great option.
- Regular inspection. Regularly inspect your knife handle for any signs of damage or wear. Look for any cracks, splits, or discoloration. If you notice any issues, it may be time to reapply the waterproof finish or, in some cases, replace the handle.
By following these knife handle maintenance tips, you can ensure that your waterproofed knife handle stays in top condition for years to come. Remember, a well-maintained knife is not only more enjoyable to use, but it’s also safer. So take the time to care for your knives; they’ll serve you well in return.
TIP: Find out my TOP 3 picks of pocket knives if you are interested in buying a pocket knife (Amazon link):
- Victorinox Swiss Army Rangergrip knife: Our favorite feature is the one-hand-opening lock blade, a crucial feature of this tool.
- Opinel No.8 Carbon Pocket Knife: Robust, reliable everyday carry knife, suitable for those who only want a knife blade on their pocket knife.
- Spyderco Para 3 Maxamet Pocket Knife: Lightweight knife featuring a blade made from high-performance Maxamet steel, with a full flat grind for edge durability and easy sharpening.
Conclusion
Waterproofing a wooden knife handle is an essential part of knife maintenance that ensures your knives’ longevity, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.
From understanding the different types of wooden knife handles to learning about the effects of water on them, we’ve covered the importance of waterproofing and the best methods to achieve it. Whether you’re using oil, wax, or a sealant, each method has its unique benefits and considerations.
The key is to choose the method that best suits your needs and the specific type of wooden handle you’re working with.
And remember, waterproofing is not a one-time process. Regular maintenance, including cleaning, reapplication of the finish, proper storage, and regular inspection, is crucial to keeping your waterproofed knife handles in top-notch condition.
TIP: A patina on a knife can be a good thing. The patina layer can protect the blade from corrosion. Should you force a patina on your blade or let it occur naturally? Read our post on the topic below:
Patina On A Knife: Prevent Or Force It? In-Depth Explanation
