Wash ___________ last.

Wash ___________ last.

• A. Knives
• B. Cutting Boards
• C. Pans
• D. Sponges

Answer: (A)

Handling sharp tools safely is the key idea. Knives are the sharpest items in the kitchen, so washing them last reduces the chance you’ll cut yourself while you’re scrubbing the rest of the dishes or reaching into a crowded sink. It also lets you dry and store the blade carefully right away, which helps prevent rust and keeps the knife secure and out of the way. Keeping knives separate from other items during washing also protects the blades from dulling or nicking other utensils. The other items—the boards, pans, and sponges—can be cleaned first with precautions, but the knife should be handled with care and stored after everything else is done.

Handling sharp tools safely is the key idea. Knives are the sharpest items in the kitchen, so washing them last reduces the chance you’ll cut yourself while you’re scrubbing the rest of the dishes or reaching into a crowded sink. It also lets you dry and store the blade carefully right away, which helps prevent rust and keeps the knife secure and out of the way. Keeping knives separate from other items during washing also protects the blades from dulling or nicking other utensils. The other items—the boards, pans, and sponges—can be cleaned first with precautions, but the knife should be handled with care and stored after everything else is done.