Limited Edition Collector Blades
Knife Storage Ideas for Every Kitchen
What's the best way to store kitchen knives? Anywhere the edges don't touch other metal: a knife block, a magnetic strip, an in-drawer organizer, or individual sheaths. For most kitchens, a block is the simplest. The Dalstrong 18-Slot Universal Knife Block ($119) holds a mixed collection from different sets in one place. If you have counter space to spare and want everything matched, the Gladiator 8-Piece Block Set ($249) comes with its own Ash wood block.
Loose in a drawer is the one option to avoid: blades knock together, edges chip, and reaching in is a good way to cut yourself.
Knife storage options compared
| Option | Best for | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Counter block | Most home kitchens | Easy to reach; protects edges | Uses counter space; slots can be hard to clean |
| Universal block | Mixed collections | Fits knives from different sets | Bulkier than a fitted block |
| Magnetic wall strip | Small kitchens | Frees the counter; knives visible | Needs wall space; place knives on carefully |
| In-drawer organizer | Clean counters, kids at home | Out of sight and reach | Uses a whole drawer |
| Sheaths | Drawers, travel, pro cooks | Full edge protection | One per knife |
Our picks
Universal Knife Block, 18 Slots ($119). A universal block with 18 slots for knives of different shapes and sizes.
8-Piece Knife Block Set, Gladiator Series, Knives NSF Certified ($249). Ash wood block with 9" carving, 9" bread, 8" chef, 7" nakiri, 6" utility, 5.5" serrated utility and 3.5" paring knives, plus a 9" honing rod. Spec sheet: German X50CrMoV15 steel, 54–56 HRC, 16–18° edge, NSF certified.
Chef's Knife 8", Shogun Series, Elite ($129). If you store knives in a drawer, choose ones with sheaths. The Shogun Series ships with a Dalstrong PerfectFit thermoplastic sheath.
Storage ideas by kitchen
Tiny apartment
Go vertical with a magnetic strip near the prep area. See our best magnetic knife holders.
Family kitchen with kids
An in-drawer organizer or a block pushed to the back of the counter, plus sheaths on the sharpest knives.
Serious home cook
A block for daily knives and sheaths for specialty blades you use less often.
Professional cook
Sheaths and a knife roll to carry knives to work.
Storage mistakes that ruin edges
- Storing knives wet. Dry completely first; moisture in a block slot leads to spots and rust.
- Dropping knives into a block edge-down. Slide them in spine-first or on the flat to avoid dulling against the wood.
- Snapping knives onto a magnet edge-first. Place the spine on the strip, then roll the blade flat.
- The utensil drawer. Chips edges and risks cuts.
Keep stored knives sharp with a ceramic honing rod ($79) kept right next to them.
FAQ
What is the best way to store kitchen knives?
Anywhere the edges don't touch other metal: a block, magnetic strip, in-drawer organizer or sheaths. The Dalstrong 18-Slot Universal Knife Block ($119) holds a mixed collection.
Is it bad to store knives in a drawer?
Loose in a drawer, yes: blades chip and it's easy to get cut. Use an in-drawer organizer or put each knife in a sheath.
Are magnetic knife strips bad for knives?
No, if you use them carefully. Place the spine on the strip first and roll the blade flat, and pull it off by tilting the spine away.
Should you store knives edge up or down in a block?
In vertical slots, edge up or on the flat keeps the edge from dragging on the wood as you slide it in.
