What are some measures to prolong the sharpness of a utility knife?

Measures to extend the sharpness of utility knives are not limited to daily use and care, but also involve some deeper skills and management methods. It is crucial to use the blade correctly, and avoid cutting on hard surfaces, such as using the knife directly on tile, glass or metal. Contact with hard objects will quickly wear the blade, so choose a suitable cutting surface, such as a wooden or plastic cutting board, which is softer and can reduce damage to the blade.
The frequency and intensity of use of the knife will also affect its sharpness. If a utility knife is used frequently or under great pressure, the blade may lose its sharpness faster. Therefore, arranging the frequency of use and avoiding excessive force can help the knife stay sharper for longer. For some particularly sharp knives, you can also consider gently wiping the blade after each use to remove any fine substances that may remain on it and prevent dirt from affecting the sharpness.
In the process of sharpening the knife, it is also very important to choose the right tools and methods. Common sharpening tools include whetstones, electric sharpeners and sharpening rods. Different types of blades may require different sharpening methods. For example, for more delicate knives or knives with high angle requirements, manual sharpening often ensures more accurate sharpening results. Although electric sharpeners are efficient, you need to be careful during use to avoid over-sharpening and thinning the blade. In addition, during the sharpening process, never neglect the trimming of the blade, especially the tip of the blade. Keeping the tip sharp can ensure the overall cutting effect.
The environment in which the utility knife is stored is equally important. A long period of humid environment will cause the blade to rust and affect the sharpness. Therefore, when not in use, it is best to place the knife in a dry place. You can use rust inhibitors or grease to apply the surface of the blade to form a protective layer to prevent moisture erosion. Knife storage boxes or knife holders are ideal storage methods. It not only prevents the blade from contacting other hard objects, but also keeps the knife neat and safe.
During daily cleaning, use mild detergent and soft cloth to clean the knife, which can not only remove food residues, but also avoid wear on the blade. After cleaning, the knife should be wiped dry immediately, especially in a humid environment, to avoid moisture from staying on the blade and forming rust spots.
Regular inspection of the blade is also an important part of maintaining sharpness. For knives that have been used for a period of time, check whether there are any damage, nicks or minor breaks. If any problems are found, they should be repaired immediately. Especially during the cutting process, if the blade is found to be not cutting smoothly or rebounding, it should be considered to be sharpened or repaired to avoid affecting work efficiency.