If you already own good knives, you may only need a place to store them. An empty knife block holds the blades you have and spares you from buying a set you do not need. The best knife blocks without knives fit many blade shapes and keep the edges safe.
The six picks below include universal blocks with flexible inserts and wooden blocks with open slots. We have not used these products ourselves, so please confirm the details on the current listing before you buy. Check the slot size against your longest knife and your widest blade.
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What to Look For
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Universal fit | Inserts that take any blade shape help mixed collections |
| Slot size | Wide knives such as cleavers need generous openings |
| Material | Bamboo and wood are common; plastic inserts clean easily |
| Footprint | Compare the base with your counter space |
| Cleaning | Removable inserts make upkeep easier |
Specs at a Glance
| Block | Style | Material | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kapoosh Universal Knife Block | Universal | Wood with bristle inserts | Takes most blade shapes |
| Madesmart Universal Knife Block | Universal | Bamboo with inserts | Compact footprint |
| Utopia Kitchen Universal Knife Block | Universal | Wood with inserts | Round block shape |
| Mercer Culinary Universal Knife Block | Universal | Wood | Open slots for several knives |
| Zulay Kitchen Universal Knife Block | Universal | Wood with inserts | Space-saving design |
| Vremi Universal Knife Block | Universal | Wood with inserts | Slim countertop shape |
The 6 Best Knife Blocks Without Knives
1. Kapoosh Universal Knife Block
A universal block with flexible rods inside that cradle each blade, so knives of different sizes fit in one holder. It does not come with knives.
Suits: mixed collections. Strengths: a universal fit and a wooden look. Weaknesses: the rods need an occasional rinse. Skip it if you want knives included.
View Kapoosh Universal Knife Block on Amazon
2. Madesmart Bamboo Universal Knife Block
Madesmart makes a bamboo block with plastic inserts that keep blades from touching the wood. It has a compact footprint and a clean look.
Suits: small counters. Strengths: a neat footprint and easy-to-clean inserts. Weaknesses: very wide blades can be tight. Skip it if you own a cleaver.
View Madesmart Bamboo Universal Knife Block on Amazon
3. Utopia Kitchen Universal Knife Block
A round universal block made from wood with a core of inserts that hold blades. It offers a value-conscious option for those who already have knives.
Suits: value seekers. Strengths: a simple universal design. Weaknesses: finish can vary. Skip it if you want a premium fit and finish.
View Utopia Kitchen Universal Knife Block on Amazon
4. Mercer Culinary Universal Knife Block
Mercer Culinary offers a wooden block with open slots. It is aimed at cooks who already own a collection of knives.
Suits: culinary workers. Strengths: a practical wooden build. Weaknesses: slot sizes limit very wide blades. Skip it if you prefer a flexible insert.
View Mercer Culinary Universal Knife Block on Amazon
5. Zulay Kitchen Universal Knife Block
A space-saving block with inserts to hold knives and scissors, from a brand that sells many kitchen gadgets.
Suits: kitchen tool collectors. Strengths: a space-saving design. Weaknesses: inserts need cleaning. Skip it if you want a heavy hardwood base.
View Zulay Kitchen Universal Knife Block on Amazon
6. Vremi Universal Knife Block
Vremi is a brand that sells a wide variety of kitchen accessories. This slim universal block holds blades without needing a set.
Suits: small kitchens. Strengths: a slim shape and a universal design. Weaknesses: stability can vary. Skip it if you want a large block.
View Vremi Universal Knife Block on Amazon
Care and Setup
- Dry knives before you slide them into the block.
- Take out removable inserts and wash them from time to time.
- Wipe the block with a dry cloth.
- Keep the block away from the sink.
- Check once in a while that no small bits of food have lodged between the inserts.
- Shake out the block over a bin to clear crumbs and dust.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Forcing a wide blade into narrow slots.
- Using a block that is too light and tips.
- Storing knives wet.
- Overfilling a block with too many pieces.
- Pushing knives in spine-first against the insert.
Empty Knife Block FAQ
What is the difference between a universal and a slotted block?
A universal block uses flexible inserts, while a slotted block has fixed openings that suit specific knife sizes.
Can I store scissors in these blocks?
Some have room for kitchen shears, and a universal block often accepts them between the inserts. Check the listing for details, and keep the handles clear so the lid or top can sit properly.
Do universal blocks dull blades?
A well-designed block should not, but pushing blades in with force can wear the edge.
Are empty blocks cheaper than sets?
A block alone lets you keep the knives you already trust and buy only the storage you need.
How do I check that my knives will fit?
Measure the blade length and the widest point of the blade, including the heel, then compare both numbers with the slot depth and width on the listing. A universal block forgives small differences.
The Short Version
For a popular universal block, the Kapoosh. For a compact bamboo block, the Madesmart. For value, the Utopia Kitchen. For open slots, the Mercer Culinary. For a space-saving block, the Zulay. For a slim block, the Vremi.