Best Magnetic Knife Strips
Whether you’re a Certified Master Chef with a set of high-end, carbon-steel knives, or you’re a hard-working homeowner with a tiny kitchen and zero storage, everyone appreciates having a place for everything, and everything in its place. Particularly when that everything includes super sharp knives that you don’t want to see damaged and dulled from being tossed around in a utility drawer. That’s why the real or imagined chef who slices, dices, chops, or minces, needs to look at adding a magnetic knife strip to his or her set of tools. Not only does this simple, hard-working device de-clutter countertops, it protects from nicks, cuts and keeps equipment visible and within easy reach. We chose 5 that we feel work with any kitchen set-up, budget, and storage requirement. Ready to take a look?
Our Favorite Magnetic Knife Strips
1. Editor’s Choice: Eco 24-inch Stainless-steel Magnetic Knife Strip
Overview:
Material: Stainless-steel
Type: Wall-mounted
Length: 24-inches
Special Features: 9 utensil hooks
Warranty: 5-year
When your primary reason for getting kitchen gadgets off counters and out of drawers is because you’re short on space, odds are you’ll appreciate a magnetic knife strip that can hold more than just knives. And with this Eco heavy-duty knife holder you get just that. Not only does this high-grade stainless-steel unit feature 24-inches of magnetic power to keep all of your sharpest blades within easy reach, it includes a second bar with 9 stainless-steel hooks that are ideal for hanging up spatulas, spoons, and all your other kitchen gear. And while we’re talking about clearing counter space, just imagine not ever having to rummage through drawers or look at that bulky utensil holder that always seems so over-stuffed and messy. Seriously, how great would this streamlined, professional looking stainless-steel unit look when mounted flush to your wall surface. Attach it near the stove, the sink, your cutting boards – wherever you need easy access to cooking gear. And, while you might be nervous that loading up a wall-mounted knife strip could be dangerous, rest assured that this unit uses two, double-sided neodymium magnets that are renowned for being strong enough to deliver holding power that will never fail.
Pros:
- Extra-strong, double-sided neodymium magnets
- Compact size for easy placement
- Extra bar with hooks for hanging utensils
- Sleek, stainless-steel finish
- Wall-mounted for extra space saving
Cons:
- Hooks designed for lightweight use
If you’re looking for a great way to get knives, utensils out of drawers and off of counter, then this stainless-steel magnetic knife strip is the perfect solution.
2. Runner Up: SUBTRACTION 12-inch Stainless-steel Magnetic Knife Strip
Overview:
Material: Stainless-steel
Type: Wall-mounted
Length: 12-inches
Special Features: No-drill installation
Warranty: Not available
You love the idea of having your prep utensils within easy reach, but the ideal location just happens to be a newly tiled backsplash and you don’t want to drill holes. Fear not, because this Subtraction magnetic knife holder gives you the option to attach the unit using their patented double-sided adhesive tape – guaranteed not to damage walls or tile surfaces. And while you may be thinking that type of installation makes this unit a bit of a lightweight when it comes to serious storage, you’d be wrong. In fact, it can hold up to 30 pounds of kitchen gear – from knives and metal utensils to scissors, and even your house-keys. If you’re out of wall space, don’t worry. This 12-inch magnetic strap can be attached to the side of your fridge to keep all your gadgets within easy reach. You can even use it at your workbench to hold pliers, screw-drivers, hammers, and more. Yes, it’s that strong. I love that this compact knife strip can be used in a horizontal or vertical position, and that it’s covered with a high-grade stainless-steel that makes it easy to clean, non-corroding, and helps keep all your knives and utensils hygienic.
Pros:
- Doesn’t require drilling to install
- Compact size fits anywhere
- Hygienic, stainless-steel finish
- Holds up to 30 pounds
- Can be attached to side of fridge
Cons:
- 12-inch length only holds 5 to 6 knives
If you want a neat, clean storage solution, but don’t want to damage walls or tiles, this wall-mounted magnetic knife strip with optional adhesive mounting, is just what you’re looking for.
3. Best Portable: Dalstrong 14.5 x 11.7-inch Double-sided Magnetic Knife Holder
Overview:
Material: Acacia wood and stainless-steel
Type: Free-standing
Length: 14.5 x 11.7-inches
Special Features: Double-sided magnetized
Warranty: Lifetime
If your entertaining style brings you and your kitchen gear out to the deck and alongside a blazing BBQ, then you’re going to want to check out this Dalstrong, magnetic knife display. Not only is it hand-crafted from premium Acacia wood for a stunning backdrop to all your favorite blades, it features high-powered, recessed magnets that firmly grip any size knife, on both sides of the unit. Beautifully crafted, this sleek yet functional knife holder is a great alternative to the wall-mounted design because it allows you to safely and easily transport all your favorite tools from the kitchen, to the deck, patio, or bar area for when entertaining demands the very best. A transparent, heat/cold-resistant, polycarbonate cover protects the wood surface from nicks and scratches while also making it easy to just wipe down after use for a continuously clean finish. I love that the blades aren’t buried in a block but displayed so you can instantly choose the right size to cut through meats for grilling, slice lemons or limes for beverages, or make quick work of veggies for family-sized salads. It sits on a sturdy, 3.9-inch wide stainless-steel base so you never need to worry about tipping.
Pros:
- Scratch-resistant, polycarbonate finish
- Free-standing portability
- Magnetized on both sides of block
- Premium Acacia wood for knife display
- Holds any size of blade
Cons:
- Not space saving
If you want a safe, secure way to store your quality knives, but with portability an important factor, we think this free-standing magnetic knife block is the ideal way to go.
4. Best Proximity: Max K 10.8 x 8.3-inch Magnetic Knife Stand
Overview:
Material: Acacia wood
Type: Free-standing
Length: 10.8 x 8.3-inches
Special Features: Tilt design to prevent tipping
Warranty: Lifetime
So, counterspace is at a premium. But because it’s where you do all your meal prep, it still needs to provide you with convenient access to knives and utensils. Now, if a wall-mounted unit just isn’t possible, here’s your solution – the Max K magnetic knife holder. It delivers a super slim profile which means that unlike those bulky knife blocks, it takes up less than 4-inches of depth and 11-inch in width. So, its a footprint that’s shallow enough to tuck under any kitchen cabinet while still providing you with safe and easy access to your most frequently used blades. Now, my favorite feature with this style of utensil storage is that you can instantly see all your knives and that makes choosing the right size blade for the task at hand, quick and easy. It also means you never have to fumble around in the cutlery drawer and risk nicks and cuts – everything is displayed in a full, at-a-glance format. But there’s more, because this beautifully built unit features impressive Acacia wood construction, a solid, anti-slip base and angled design so you never need to worry about it shifting or tipping over if it gets bumped as you work.
Pros:
- Easy-care, wipe-clean finish
- Free-standing portability
- Anti-slip base and angled design prevent tipping
- Premium Acacia wood for beautiful display
- Slim design takes up minimal space
Cons:
- Best for use with smaller knives
If a wall-mounted magnetic knife strip doesn’t deliver on convenience, this slim-line, countertop knife holder that takes up minimal space in your solution.
5. Best Organized: Boyee 18-inch Stainless-steel Magnetic Knife Strip
Overview:
Material: Stainless-steel
Type: Wall-mounted
Length: 18-inches
Special Features: Double bar and hooks
Warranty: not available
When kitchen clutter is driving you nuts and you can’t find any of your favorite utensils without a good rummage through the cupboards, you know its time for a better organizational system. And that’s where the Boyee stainless-steel utensil holder steps up. Not only does this 18-inch, magnetic unit securely hold all your favorite knives and gadgets in full sight, but it features 10 generously sized hooks so you can hang everything from pots and pans, to lids and even chopping boards. In fact, this wall-installed knife holder was designed with a .5 mm gap between the bar and the wall surface, to allow for an extra layer of knives to be slipped in behind for safe, reachable storage. For me, one of its best features is the magnetic duo-bar design that literally doubles up on your ability to store all your metal kitchenware. Not only can you hang twice the number of knives and utensils, it allows you to stagger the hooks to allow for larger sauce pans, wider lids, and over-sized kitchen gadgets. And with premium neodymium magnets that are renowned for their never-fail strength and endurance, you can trust this storage unit is safe and secure.
Pros:
- Industrial-style, stainless-steel finish
- Premium neodymium magnets for extra strength
- Dual bar design for extra storage
- Hooks feature square tops for better grip
- Capable of holding cookware
Cons:
- May need reinforced mounting if used for heavy items
If your goal is to clear all clutter from drawers and counter surfaces, this magnetic knife strip and utensil holder is the solution you’ve been looking for.
6. Honorable Mention: Ouddy 16-Inch Magnetic Knife Strip
Ouddy’s 16-inch wall-mounted magnetic knife holder a stainless-steel frame with internal magnet block to secure your knives. One of the things we liked about this particular magnetic knife strip was its length. It can comfortably store a chef’s knife, bread knife, filleting knife, and a set of both serrated and non-serrated paring knives. Generally speaking, that’s the maximum number of knives we’d be using in the kitchen anyway – save for in the case of cleavers, which we recommend storing separately with a blade guard anyway.
Sous Vide Guy also liked the sleek, block-steel design. The neutral tones make it an easy match for most kitchen décor, but it really does look best offset with black tile or in an area with other stainless-steel highlights. Thanks in part to this minimalistic design you could also conceivably use the magnetic strip to store metallic art supplies, or a limited number of tools. Utensils are also another easy possibility – although drawers are typically fine for blunt instruments just as forks, spoons, and table knives. Note that the backing can be removed to check the magnetic, but watch you fingers during reassembly. It’s very easy to hurt yourself if you get between the backing and the magnet.
Pros
- Stainless-steel block design with internal magnetic strip.
- Wide, 16-inch design that accommodates a number of knives.
- Can double up for storing steak knives, a limited number of tools, or some crafting supplies.
Cons
- May need to angle blades to adhere firmly to the internal magnet strip to allow for surface area contact with the strip.
You May be Surprised at How Versatile A Magnetic Knife Strip Really Is
You don’t have to be a great chef or even an up-and-coming cook to appreciate the multi-purpose benefits that a good magnetic knife strip can bring to your household. Because they’re super strong, the sky really is the limit in terms of how you use them. Don’t have chef-grade knives you want to protect? How about using it to hold your house or car keys? Maybe the clip of a dog-leash. Or add some mini magnets to use it as a stream-lined bulletin board in smaller spaces. What about in your garage to hold pliers, wrenches, or hammers. Yes, they’re really that strong. In fact, designs such as the SUBTRACTION can hold up to 30 pounds of equipment. If getting your home organized, always seems to be on your “to do” list, then this simple solution is a great step forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Wall-Mounted Units Safe to Use?
Today’s wall-mounted units are an ideal space-saving option because they not only get your equipment up off your counters but they make items easier to find. Most feature ultra-strong neodymium magnets designed for use with industrial machinery and guaranteed to maintain their grip, Double wall anchors or strong adhesive materials ensure a firm hold to any solid surface, so you never need worry about slippage.
Is There an Ideal Material?
As with any kitchen equipment that is used around foods, grease, or liquids, you want a sealed material that can be wiped clean and sanitized. Particularly when you are putting knife blades into direct contact. You can’t go wrong with a simple, stainless-steel finish. It looks great, cleans up easily and can be sanitized without worry of damaging the finish. If you’re opting for a wood-finish, look for one that has been fully sealed to preserve the finish.
Do the Adhesive Mount Designs Really Work?
Yes, the adhesives and bonding agents used to secure knife strips to the wall are both effective, and non-damaging to surfaces. Which is what you’re looking for if it’s being installed on a newly tiled backsplash, or a dry-wall finish in a rental apartment where you want to avoid damage. They deliver a firm grip that doesn’t let go unless intentionally removed. The one caveat being that you need to be diligent about never loading it up beyond the recommended weight capacity.
Which Design is Best for Entertaining?
If you love to entertain out-of-doors – around a pool, barbecue, or patio – the free-standing magnetic knife holders are great. They allow you to bring out your best equipment without fear of it becoming damaged. They’re also ideal from a safety standpoint, because you always know where your blades and utensils are – you just touch them to the magnetic surface, and it securely holds your knives, tongs, spatulas, and more, so you can get back to the party.
Conclusion
A great looking magnetic knife strip can be a smart-looking addition to any kitchen. And because so many of today’s designs come in a sleek, industrial-style, stainless-steel finish, they instantly add a professional vibe to your cook station wall. Now, for those who worry about simply transferring their clutter to a wall rack, the solutions are simple. Why not opt for a smaller 12-inch length to flaunt just a few of your top-quality knives, or a larger, 24-inch unit that includes hooks for a more fulsome yet organized display of utensils. For those not yet convinced, consider this: a good quality knife holder can help you regain order in your kitchen, protect your equipment, and can make it simple to find the right utensil for the job at hand. And because outdoor living should never mean compromising on your culinary skills, these handy accessories even come in free-standing, magnetic blocks that can sit alongside you at the BBQ. We’ve chosen 5 designs that range from super-simple and inexpensive all the way up to a professional-grade Acacia wood unit that acts as storage as well a pretty impressive display unit. They’re worth the investment.
FAQs
Can a magnetic knife strip be used with all types of knives?
Magnetic strips are best used with ferritic stainless steels, martensitic stainless steels, or duplex stainless steel. Ceramic knives will not stick to a magnetic knife strip. Likewise, cheap knives that have been diluted during the forging process may be less secure than their stainless-steel compatriots, leading to an increased rick of droppages.
Will a magnetic knife strip damage my knives?
Magnetic knife strips, good quality ones are least, have little to no direct risk of damaging your knives. It’s much more likely that a knife will lose its edge rattling around in a drawer when compared to a mag-strip, or even a traditional knife block. With that said, there is always the risk of your knives slipping off the magnetic strip if the magnet itself begins to go – although this is quite unlikely. Personally, we use both a magnetic strip for common kitchen knives, while higher quality blades are stored in a dedicated knife block or with a made-to-fit blade guard.
How many knives does a magnetic knife strip hold?
Most magnetic knife strips are designed to hold a minimum of four knives. With that said, the most important factor here is how long and thick the strip is. A wider magnetic strip will allow for more knife storage, which requires a slight corresponding increasing in thickness to balance out the extra length.