5 Signs You Need to Replace Your Kitchen Knives, According to Experts

Maintaining your kitchen knives so that you can use them safely and effectively for years means storing them properly, cleaning them correctly, and sharpening them regularly. But even kitchen knives that are cared for the right way need to be replaced eventually. Whether you're dealing with a broken handle, cracked blade, rusted surface, or dull edge, find out if your knife can be salvaged—or if it's time for a replacement.

The Handle Is Broken

A knife with a broken handle—especially one that requires tape or another temporary adhesive to hold it together—should be replaced. "This can be a huge safety issue," says culinary bladesmith Quintin Middleton of Middleton Made Knives. "You don't want to risk the knife getting dislodged from your grip while using."

However, a handle that's only a little wobbly is often salvageable. "If the handle breaks, I would suggest replacing the knife altogether," he says. "If the handle is loose, this is an easy fix if you take it to a trusted cutler," says executive chef Oscar Diaz of Aaktun and Little Bull.

The Blade Tip Is Broken

Small dings and imperfections in your blade can be filled or removed, but more serious damage often means it's time for a replacement. "Minor chips and scratches can be easily repaired by blade sharpening professionals who can refinish and polish a knife's edge," says Morgan Cunningham, cutlery expert for Sur La Table. "In some cases, significant chips are covered by a knife's manufacturer warranty."

Knife blades broken by less than about one-third of their length can be repaired or reshaped by a quality bladesmith, says Middleton—but if your favorite knife is damaged beyond that, it's time to buy a new one.

The Blade Doesn't Stay Sharp

A sharp knife is a safe knife, and while regular sharpening can improve your ability to slice and die, a blade that can't hold a sharp edge is at the end of its life. "If you can, stay away from housing your knives in a mixed-utensil drawer," says Middleton. "The blade is more prone to scratches and dents from being jostled around when opening and closing the drawer, which can ultimately affect the overall efficacy of the knife."

The Blade Is Rusty

Minor rusting can be removed with a quick clean and polish, but anything more stubborn might be a sign that the rust has compromised your knife's integrity, says Cunningham. If this is the case, you should replace the knife to avoid the rust getting into your food. However, some high-quality carbon steel knives may experience a natural patina over time, which adds character to the blade's appearance and is harmless.

It's the Wrong Size

Replace a knife that's uncomfortable to use, whether it's too big or too small for your grip. "Knives that work perfectly for your friend might not fit your hand or cooking style, so we encourage you to speak with a professional and test out a variety of knives before deciding on a set to take home," says Cunningham.