If you store knives in a knife block, it's important to clean it regularly, since the knife block can be a breeding ground for bacteria.

Are knife blocks unsanitary?

Wooden knife blocks may be a more common storage option, but they're far from the best way to store knives. Storing knives in wood blocks is more likely to dull your knives, and those knife blocks could also be a hot bed for yeast, mold and other germs.

Do knife blocks harbor bacteria?

A knife block can foster mold and bacteria, particularly down in the knife slots. Start by removing any crumbs and debris from inside the block. Next, you'll want to thoroughly clean the block inside and out with soap and water. Finish up by sanitizing the block with a mild bleach solution.