Wüsthof Classic Knife Block Set (Black, 12-Piece)

Are these knives dishwasher safe?

No, these Wüsthof knives require hand washing only. The high carbon steel blades and POM handles can be damaged by harsh dishwasher detergents and high temperatures. Hand washing with warm soapy water preserves the blade edge and handle integrity. Always dry immediately after washing to prevent water spots and maintain the steel's condition.

What's the difference between this set and individual Wüsthof Classic knives?

This set includes some knives that aren't from the Classic series, specifically the cleaver and honing steel use different model numbers. However, all knives maintain Wüsthof's quality standards and the price represents significant savings compared to purchasing items individually. The ash wood block alone typically costs over £150 when bought separately.

How often should I use the included honing steel?

Use the honing steel before each cooking session or after every few uses depending on frequency. Honing realigns the blade edge without removing steel, maintaining sharpness between professional sharpenings. Hold the steel vertically and draw the knife down at a 20-degree angle, alternating sides. This maintains the PEtec edge geometry and extends time between professional sharpening services.

What cutting techniques work best with the santoku knife?

The 17cm santoku excels at chopping, dicing and slicing vegetables with its wide blade and straight edge. Use a rocking motion for herbs, straight downward cuts for vegetables and the wide blade for transferring chopped ingredients. The santoku's design makes it perfect for people who prefer a lighter alternative to the traditional chef's knife whilst maintaining versatility.

Can these knives handle heavy-duty tasks like breaking down poultry?

Yes, the set includes a boning knife specifically designed for separating meat from bone and a cleaver for chopping through joints. The chef's knife handles most poultry breakdown tasks, whilst the boning knife's narrow, flexible blade navigates around bones precisely. The full tang construction provides the strength needed for these demanding tasks without blade flex or handle separation.

How do I maintain the ash wood knife block?

Clean the ash wood block with a damp cloth and mild soap, then dry thoroughly. Apply food-safe mineral oil monthly to prevent cracking and maintain the wood's appearance. Ensure knives are completely dry before storing to prevent moisture damage to the wood. The natural ash wood may darken slightly with age, which is normal and doesn't affect functionality.

What's the proper storage method for these knives?

Store knives in the provided ash wood block with blades fully inserted into the slots. This protects the edges from damage and prevents accidents. Never store knives loose in drawers where blades can knock against other utensils. The block design allows air circulation around the blades, preventing moisture buildup that could lead to corrosion.

Are replacement parts available if something gets damaged?

Wüsthof offers individual knife replacements and accessories through authorised dealers. The company's seven-generation heritage means they support their products long-term. Contact Wüsthof directly or authorised retailers for specific replacement needs. Many components like the honing steel and scissors can be purchased separately if needed, though the forged knives are built to last decades with proper care.