Water is the one thing horn dislikes
Horn is a natural material made of keratin, and it reacts to water and heat much as fingernails do: it softens, swells and can lift in layers if soaked. Black horn handles with polished inox bolsters stay glossy for many years with a simple routine:
- Wash by hand, quickly, and never leave the knives in the sink.
- Dry the handles first, then the 420 blades.
- Every few months, rub a little mineral oil or beeswax into the horn and buff it.
- Keep the set in its wooden case, away from heaters, which can dry horn until it cracks.
This is Pakistani cutlery made the traditional way, and it rewards traditional care.
