iCook Frypans & Knifeware FAQs and Answers

Q: Do I need to season the frypans after using them for a while?
A: Non-stick frypans should be seasoned occasionally by applying oil to the surface of the pan. Do not use cooking sprays on the surface because they leave a residue that is difficult to remove.

Q: Can I use non-stick cooking sprays on my iCook Non-stick Frypans?
A: You should never use non-stick cooking sprays on a non-stick frypan. Instead, you may season your pan periodically with a small amount of vegetable oil, olive oil or peanut oil. Simply rub inside the pan with a soft cloth. Repeat as needed (every 15-20 uses or so) if you hand wash the pans, and after every time in the dishwasher. (It is not recommended that you place your iCook Cookware in an automatic dishwasher.)

iCook Knifeware
Q: What is the difference between forged and stamped knives?

A: Forged: A forged knife is produced from a steel billet (thick chunk of metal) that is heated and struck into shape with a multi-ton hammer. The stainless steel flows into the shape of the knife. A fully forged knife, such as iCook Knifeware, is one where the blade, bolster and tang are formed from one piece of metal. The forged construction is considered to be very strong, durable and long lasting. Forged knives are often heavier than stamped knives but are considered to have better balance.
A: Stamped: Stamped knives are die-cut from flat stainless steel - like a cookie cutter. Stamped knives are lighter but don't have the same quality and balance as forged knives. Due to the lack of density, the stamped knives often don't hold edges as well as the forged knives. Stamped knives are usually less expensive.

Q: How are the iCook knives constructed?

A: There are two main parts to an iCook knife: 1) a single piece, fully forged blade, bolster and tang; and 2) the riveted handle.

The blade is made from a German stainless steel called DIN 1.4116. This steel is specially formulated for forged knives.

The handles are made from a plastic called polyoxymethylene. It is a handle material that is commonly used in high-end knives.


  Q: Why is it important to sharpen my knives?
A: For three reasons: 1) The first is safety. Forcing a cut with a dull knife is one of the easiest ways to injure yourself. Properly sharpened and maintained knives actually help prevent accidents. 2) Second, for good cutting action. You will get straighter, cleaner cuts with a sharp, well-maintained knife than you will with a dull knife. 3) Third is comfort. Using a high level of force over an extended period of time can cause discomfort to your hand. Keeping your knives sharp makes it easier to cut, thereby reducing the required force and time per use.

Q: My knife has developed some rust spots. Why is this and can it be removed?
A: Never use an abrasive scrubber or cleanser to clean the knives. All stainless steels will corrode to some degree when exposed to salts. The term "stainless" implies a resistance to rusting, pitting and staining; not that the material is rust free. The type of stainless steel used to make knives is recognised as being more susceptible to attack by salts than are the stainless steels commonly used to make cookware. This is because it contains more carbon which is needed for creating and maintaining an edge. Because of this, it is important that you take special care to follow the care and use instructions provided to minimise the occurrence of rust. If rust spots do occur, they can usually be removed by gently scrubbing the blade in the direction of the brushed finish using a mild abrasive cleaner such as SCRUB BRITE™ or L.O.C.™ Plus Soft Cleanser and a nylon bristle brush. Use extreme caution so as not to get your fingers near the cutting edge of the knife blade.