How to Use a Retractable Knife Sharpener for Kitchen Knives

Quick answer

Using a retractable knife sharpener is a quick and safe way to restore knife sharpness at home. The Tefal Ice Force Retractable Knife Sharpener offers a 3-slot sharpening process that works on stainless steel knives.

How to sharpen your kitchen knives with a retractable sharpener

1. Prepare the sharpener: Place the sharpener on a flat, stable surface. Make sure the rubber base (if present) grips the counter to prevent slipping.
2. Select the right slot: Start with the coarse slot if the knife is dull or damaged. For routine maintenance, begin with the medium slot. Insert the blade heel-first and pull it through gently from heel to tip. A common mistake is using too much pressure. Let the sharpener do the work.
3. Repeat for the other slots: After the coarse or medium slot, move to the fine slot for a polished edge. Pull the blade through 3–5 times per slot, alternating sides if the sharpener has separate slots for each side. Stop when the blade feels sharp. Over-sharpening can wear down the edge.
4. Test the sharpness: Carefully slice a piece of paper or a tomato. A sharp knife should cut cleanly without tearing. If it still feels dull, repeat the process once more.

Product facts

• Tefal Ice Force Retractable Knife Sharpener K26505: The Tefal Ice Force Retractable Knife Sharpener features a 3-slot sharpening process designed to maintain and repair stainless steel knives. This means you can restore knife sharpness at home without needing professional tools or experience.