In a household germ study from NSF International, an independent testing group, the knife block ranked No. 7 on the list of germiest items in the kitchen, just after the refrigerator meat compartment. "Naturally, if you put a wet or dirty knife into a storage block, microbes may grow," explains Lisa Yakas, a microbiologist and consumer product safety expert at NSF International. "Dark, moist environments breed germs. The key is washing and thoroughly drying your knife before you store it."

Regularly cleaning your knife block is another option, but for knife storage that protects both the blade and the person using it, try one of these alternative knife storage solutions.

In-Drawer Knife Block

In-drawer knife storage doesn't mean mixing your knives with other utensils. It's a straightforward method that involves using a drawer and a towel. "I use a knife roll when I travel for events, but I lay down my knives horizontally in drawers at home," says chef Ming Tsai, James Beard Award winner and founder of MingsBings.com. "I lay them down on a towel without touching each other so they don't get dulled by being pulled in and out of a traditional knife block. I put my small knives in front horizontally, and my longer knives perpendicular to the drawer."

Pros of in-drawer knife storage: This method is easy to maintain—just wash the towel and ensure knives are dry before storing. It keeps knives off the counter and away from children and pets, reducing accident risks. It also helps protect your knives since the blades don't touch hard surfaces like wood or metal.

Cons of in-drawer knife storage: Some drawers may not be large enough to hold a full set of 15 knives. You might need to store steak knives separately and use the drawer for your most important knives like the chef's knife, paring knife, and serrated knife.

Magnetic Knife Holder Strip

Magnetic strips can be quickly and easily mounted on kitchen walls. They save valuable counter space and offer a sanitary way to store your knives. With minimal DIY effort, you can install a metal or wood magnetic strip and have it ready for use.

Pros of magnetic knife storage: Many restaurants prefer this method as it keeps knives sanitized in open air. Magnetic strips also make it easy to access your knives quickly for chopping or slicing.

Cons of magnetic knife storage: In homes with pets or children, visible knives can be a hazard. Additionally, over time, the magnets' strength might strain the knife blades.

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Leather Knife Roll

Many professional chefs use leather knife rolls for transporting their tools to and from work. Some luxury knife makers also use them for customer shipments. This option is becoming more popular for home use.

Pros of knife rolls: Leather rolls can be safely stored out of reach of children and pets. Each roll has customized slots to hold knives horizontally and protect their blades. They are durable, portable, and stylish—perfect for travel or picnics.

Cons of knife rolls: Leather knife rolls aren't the most convenient for everyday kitchen use, as they require extra steps to access a single knife. They also don't accommodate large knife sets well, so they're better suited for storing larger knives separately from steak knives.

No-Slot Knife Block

Not all knife blocks have slots. Slotless styles are often easier to maintain and clean. They typically use plastic or rubber rods that adjust to accommodate most standard-sized kitchen knives.

Pros of slotless knife blocks: You can easily remove the rubber or plastic rod base and clean it in the dishwasher for easy sanitization. Knives are accessible, and these models are generally affordable, making them budget-friendly.

Cons of slotless knife blocks: These blocks take up a lot of counter space and can keep knives within reach of children or pets. Additionally, the rods may not be sturdy enough for very sharp knives and can deteriorate if knives are improperly inserted.

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Magnetic Knife Block

Magnetic knife blocks are great for home cooks who want the convenience of a traditional block with the easy maintenance of a magnetic strip. These blocks often have a modern look, with hidden rare earth magnets embedded in materials like American walnut. "The magnets hold the blades securely without touching them," says Matt Conable, founder and creative director of William Henry. "This offers elegant aesthetics, no interference between magnets and knives, and a better way to display and access your kitchen knives."

Pros of magnetic knife blocks: They keep knives in a moisture-free space with good airflow, simplifying cleaning. These blocks are convenient, visually appealing, and can also serve as decorative pieces in the kitchen.

Cons of magnetic knife blocks: Knives are visible and within easy reach of children and pets, which could be a hazard. While improper use could dull the blades over time, most models are user-friendly.