Kitchen Hacks: Sharpen a knife with old newspaper, know the easy method and important precautions

Tezzbuzz Desk- A sharp knife in the kitchen makes work easier and faster. If the knife’s edge becomes weak while cutting vegetables, fruits or other things, it takes more time and the effort also increases. Usually people use a sharpener or whetstone to sharpen the knife, but if these things are not available in the house then the help of old newspaper can be taken.

This method may sound a bit strange, but the ink and surface of the newspaper can help lightly refine the knife’s edge. However, this method cannot make a completely worn or completely blunt knife as sharp as new.

Can a knife really be sharper than newspaper?

The fine textures in the surface of the newspaper and the ink can act as a mild abrasive. It helps in straightening the small burrs or curved edges formed on the knife edge, due to which the knife can make better cutting than before.

Easy way to sharpen knife with newspaper

put the newspaper in the right place

First of all, spread a newspaper of about 4 to 5 pages on a table or kitchen counter. Take care that the newspaper does not move, so that there is no problem while using the knife.

keep the knife at the right angle

Place the knife at about a 15 to 20 degree angle to the newspaper. Maintaining the correct angle allows for better refinement of the edge.

move the blade slowly

Gently slide the edge of the knife across the newspaper. Apply strokes about 15 times on both sides. Avoid applying too much pressure during this time.

test the edge

To test the sharpness of a knife, try cutting it on a soft object like paper or a tomato. If it is already cutting easily then this method has worked.

Keep these things in mind while sharpening a knife

• If the knife is completely blunt then the newspaper method will not be very effective.
• Do not apply too much pressure while using the knife, otherwise the blade or hand may be damaged.
• For rusty or badly sharpened knives, it is better to use a sharpening stone or a professional sharpener.
• Always use a wooden or food grade plastic chopping board.
• Wash and dry the knife thoroughly after use, so that its edge remains sharp for a long time.

When will the newspaper method be useful?

If the edge of the knife has become a little weak and a sharpener is not immediately available, then this home remedy of newspaper can prove helpful. But to keep the knife sharp for a long time, it is necessary to sharpen it properly from time to time.