Can You Put Knives in the Dishwasher? (And Other Knife Myths Debunked)

We hear it all the time: "Can I just throw this in the dishwasher?" When it comes to kitchen knives, the answer is a hard no, and that's just one of many myths that could be quietly ruining your blades.

In this post, we’re breaking down five of the most common misconceptions about knife care, and setting the record straight so your knives stay sharper, longer.

1. Myth: You Can Put Knives in the Dishwasher

The truth: Dishwashers expose knives to high heat, abrasive detergent, and violent movement. This damages the blade's edge, dulls it quickly, and can even cause rust or corrosion. Always hand wash your knives with mild soap and dry them immediately. For more, read our guide on how to properly maintain your SEKKIN knife.

2. Myth: A Sharp Knife Is Dangerous

The truth: A dull knife is actually more dangerous. It requires more force to cut, making it more likely to slip. A sharp knife gives you control, speed, and precision—and it’s safer when used properly. Explore our knife safety tips.

3. Myth: You Only Need to Sharpen Once a Year

The truth: Most home cooks don’t sharpen often enough. But sharpening is different from honing. Honing realigns the blade (and should be done regularly), while sharpening grinds a new edge (and should be done when honing no longer helps). Learn how in our guide to sharpening vs. honing.

4. Myth: All Cutting Boards Are the Same

The truth: Hard surfaces like glass, granite, or ceramic are terrible for your knives. Always use wood or plastic. End-grain wood boards are ideal—they’re gentler on the edge and naturally resist bacteria. See our tips for choosing the right cutting surface.

5. Myth: More Expensive = Better

The truth: Price doesn’t always reflect quality. What matters is the steel, the edge geometry, and the balance in your hand. A knife should feel like an extension of you. (And yes, there are knives that deliver all that—without the $300 price tag.) You can find that in our bestselling chef’s knife.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, good knife habits make all the difference. And busting these myths is a solid place to start.

Looking for a knife that holds its edge, feels great in the hand, and doesn’t need babying? Meet SEKKIN →