Best Knife Sharpener America’s Test Kitchen Swears By!

Maintaining sharp knives is key to safe and efficient cooking. Dull blades make cutting harder and can lead to accidents or uneven food preparation.

Finding a reliable tool to keep your knives in top condition can save time and effort in the kitchen. The best knife sharpener America’s Test Kitchen recommends offers a straightforward way to restore blade sharpness without damaging your cutlery. Designed for home cooks who want consistent results, this sharpener works with various types of knives to improve cutting performance quickly.

This review will cover how well the sharpener performs, its ease of use, and what features set it apart. Whether you have a small collection of knives or a full set, this insight will help you decide if it fits your kitchen needs.

Discover Top-Rated Tools That Take Your Blades from Dull to Dazzling

Image	Product	Price
Our Top Picks 1	AccuSharp Knife Sharpener	Check Price
Our Top Picks 2	Chef’sChoice 15XV EdgeSelect Electric Knife Sharpener	Check Price
Our Top Picks 3	The Original Tumbler Rolling Knife Sharpener Wood	Check Price

1. AccuSharp Knife Sharpener

Keeping knives sharp is essential for safety and efficiency in the kitchen. The AccuSharp Knife Sharpener provides a quick and reliable solution to restore blade edges.

With the ability to sharpen many types of knives in just ten seconds, this sharpener saves time and effort. It is an indispensable tool for maintaining the performance of chef’s knives, paring knives, serrated knives, and even cleavers.

Designed with diamond-honed tungsten carbide blades, the AccuSharp delivers a durable and effective sharpening surface. The blades can be reversed to extend their lifespan, providing long-term value.

Its ergonomic handle accommodates both left- and right-handed users safely.

The device features a guard that protects fingers throughout the sharpening process, adding an extra layer of safety. Cleaning is hassle-free as it can be rinsed with soap and water or placed in the dishwasher.

The sharpener remains dependable after years of use without frequent blade replacements.

Ideal for home cooks and professionals alike, the tool’s straightforward operation encourages regular blade maintenance. Compared to electric sharpeners, it is more compact and requires no power source. This sharpener stands out for its performance, ease of use, and durable construction.

Pros

• Quick sharpening, restores blades in about 10 seconds
• Durable diamond-honed tungsten carbide blades with reversible design
• Safe and ergonomic handle suitable for all users

Cons

• Not intended for very fine or specialty knives requiring professional sharpening

The AccuSharp Knife Sharpener combines durability, ease of use, and safety in a compact package. It offers excellent value for anyone aiming to keep their knives performing at their best, rivaling many pricier electric sharpeners.

Experience safer, faster food prep with a dependable sharpener designed to last.

2. Chef’sChoice 15XV EdgeSelect Electric Knife Sharpener

Sharpening knives to perfection no longer requires professional skills or expensive tools. The Chef’sChoice 15XV EdgeSelect Electric Knife Sharpener offers a straightforward and effective way to achieve razor-sharp edges at home. Designed to upgrade factory edges, it enhances your knives’ cutting performance with precision and ease.

Designed to upgrade factory edges, it enhances your knives’ cutting performance with precision and ease.

Offering a balance of advanced technology and user-friendly design, this sharpener fits neatly on any countertop. It is ideal for anyone who values sharp, reliable kitchen tools and wants to maintain them with minimal effort.

Engineered to convert household knives with traditional 20-degree edges into premium 15-degree Trizor XV edges, the sharpener excels at boosting cutting precision. Its three-stage EdgeSelect system uses 100-percent diamond abrasives for sharpening and honing, while an innovative stropping stage polishes and preserves serrated blades.

The built-in flexible spring guides automatically adjust and maintain the correct sharpening angle throughout the process. This patented design makes the tool exceptionally simple to use, requiring just a straightforward on/off switch.

Durability matches performance, with high-quality materials ensuring lasting use. Its compact dimensions fit comfortably on kitchen counters without occupying excessive space.

The sharpener’s ability to extend serrated knife life further highlights its value. Overall, it suits home cooks and professionals seeking dependable, quick, and consistent blade sharpening.

Pros

• Transforms standard knife edges into ultra-sharp 15-degree blades
• Includes a specialized stage for maintaining serrated knives
• Automatic angle adjustment with easy, one-button operation

Cons

• Higher initial investment compared to basic manual sharpeners

The Chef’sChoice 15XV EdgeSelect sharpener is a reliable investment for maintaining the sharpness and longevity of kitchen knives. It combines diamond technology with practical design to deliver consistent, effortless sharpening results.

This tool stands out for its precision and ability to care for both straight and serrated blades, making it valuable for any kitchen setup.

3. The Original Tumbler Rolling Knife Sharpener Wood

Maintaining sharp, precise knives is effortless with The Original Tumbler Rolling Knife Sharpener Wood. It combines expert craftsmanship with innovative diamond sharpening technology to enhance your blades quickly and efficiently. This tool fits comfortably in your hand, making knife maintenance straightforward, whether at home or outdoors.

Designed to restore factory-sharp edges, it is perfect for kitchen, utility, and outdoor knives alike. Its thoughtful design caters to cooks and adventurers who appreciate clean, razor-sharp cuts. With The Original Tumbler, sharpness is just a roll away.

With The Original Tumbler, sharpness is just a roll away.

The Original Tumbler offers precise knife sharpening using a unique diamond-plated disc. Unlike conventional pull-through sharpeners, it preserves blade integrity while revitalizing sharpness. The stainless steel helix disc refines edges for smooth, accurate cuts on various blades, including kitchen and field knives.

The stainless steel helix disc refines edges for smooth, accurate cuts on various blades, including kitchen and field knives.

Two fixed sharpening angles, 15° and 20°, guarantee consistent results suitable for various blade types. A magnetic angle guide supports controlled sharpening, letting users roll the blade to desired sharpness without complicated setups or messy stones.

This ergonomic approach prevents hand fatigue and improves accuracy.

Constructed with durable materials and strong magnets, the unit promises long-lasting performance. It suits chefs, home cooks, and outdoor users who require trustworthy edge maintenance.

Pros

• Diamond-plated disc ensures effective sharpening without damaging blades
• Magnetic angle support provides precise and controlled sharpening
• Durable build with fixed 15° and 20° angles for various knife types

Cons

• Higher price point compared to basic sharpeners

Delivering consistent, professional-quality sharpening, The Original Tumbler Rolling Knife Sharpener Wood enhances any knife’s performance with minimal effort. Its blend of advanced materials and smart design makes it a reliable tool for anyone looking to keep blades sharp and ready.

Below is a quick glance at its specifications for your reference.

4. WÜSTHOF Hand-Held 2-Stage Sharpener Black

WÜSTHOF’s Hand-Held 2-Stage Sharpener combines heritage with precision to keep your knives in prime condition. Its compact design and ergonomic handle make sharpening safe and comfortable for users of all skill levels.

Designed with a two-stage process, the sharpener tackles dull blades efficiently and effortlessly. Experience sharp, precise edges that enhance your cutting performance with minimal effort.

Crafted with expertly preset angles, this sharpener maintains a consistent 34° edge for reliable results. Stage one uses carbide abrasive wheels to restore blades that have lost their sharpness. Following this, stage two employs ceramic slats to refine the edge, leaving a polished, smooth finish.

Following this, stage two employs ceramic slats to refine the edge, leaving a polished, smooth finish.

The handle’s E-Z grip ensures safety by providing a firm hold during use. Additionally, the non-slip base adds stability by keeping the device steady on work surfaces. The design accommodates both left- and right-handed users comfortably.

Manufactured by WÜSTHOF, a family-owned company with over 200 years of cutlery experience, this sharpener carries the Solingen mark of excellence. It suits home cooks seeking quick and effective knife maintenance without professional tools. Overall, it offers excellent value and reliable performance in a compact package.

Overall, it offers excellent value and reliable performance in a compact package.

Pros

• Two-stage sharpening for effective blade restoration and polishing
• Ergonomic handle and non-slip base ensure safe, stable use
• Preset 34° angle guarantees consistent sharpening results

Cons

• Not suitable for serrated knives or specialty blades

With a strong tradition behind it, the WÜSTHOF Hand-Held 2-Stage Sharpener delivers dependable results for everyday knife care. Its intuitive design suits a variety of kitchen knives and provides sharp, reliable edges quickly and safely.

5. 4-in-1 Kitchen Knife Sharpener and Cut-Resistant Glove Set

Experience precision and safety in your kitchen with the 4-in-1 Kitchen Knife Sharpener and Cut-Resistant Glove Set. Designed to restore the sharpness of your knives quickly, it offers professional-level blade maintenance for every home cook. Combining functionality with protection, this set ensures knives perform like new while minimizing the risk of accidents.

Perfectly engineered, the sharpener features a unique 3-step system that repairs, sharpens, and polishes blades efficiently. Alongside, a cut-resistant glove provides reliable hand safety during sharpening, adding confidence to your kitchen routine. Crafted to last, it enhances convenience whether you’re right or left-handed, making kitchen tasks smoother and safer.

The 3-slot knife sharpener is at the core of the design. The first diamond sharpening rod corrects damage and straightens the blade’s edge.

Next, the second slot restores the blade’s original V-shape for consistent cutting performance. Finally, the third slot fine-tunes and polishes to achieve a smooth, professional finish on every knife.

The ergonomic handle suits both right- and left-handed users, offering a comfortable grip and excellent control. A quick pull through the slots delivers fast, consistent sharpening results. This sharpener is compatible with various knife types, enhancing the versatility in your kitchen toolkit.

Adding to the set’s appeal is the cut-resistant glove, designed with a non-slip base to maximize safety. It offers reliable protection for your hand during sharpening and other cutting tasks.

Made from solid ABS plastic, the sharpener is durable and built to withstand frequent use without losing effectiveness. This set suits anyone aiming to maintain kitchen knives effortlessly while prioritizing safety and quality.

Pros

• Effective 3-step sharpening system restores and polishes blades
• Ergonomic design supports right- and left-handed users
• Includes a reliable cut-resistant glove for enhanced safety

Cons

• May require multiple pulls for extremely dull blades

Combining safety and performance, this sharpener set refreshes knives with ease and protects hands during use. Its durable construction and user-friendly design make it a valuable kitchen accessory. Ideal for home cooks seeking convenience without compromising on quality, it stands out compared to traditional single-stage sharpeners by offering thorough blade care.

Ideal for home cooks seeking convenience without compromising on quality, it stands out compared to traditional single-stage sharpeners by offering thorough blade care.

6. Precision Adjust 5-Stage Knife Sharpener

Experience the perfect blend of precision and convenience with the Precision Adjust 5-Stage Knife Sharpener. Crafted to deliver professional-level sharpness, it lets users customize the angle for a razor-sharp edge suited to various straight-edge knives. This innovative sharpener offers a straightforward method to restore your blades’ cutting performance quickly.

Designed to cater to different sharpening needs, the adjustable angle settings ensure every blade receives the ideal treatment. Whether prepping kitchen knives or maintaining outdoor tools, this sharpener achieves consistent results with minimal effort.

Its ergonomic design makes blade maintenance accessible and efficient for home cooks and professionals alike.

The Precision Adjust 5-Stage Knife Sharpener stands out for its adjustable angles, ranging from 12° to 24°, accommodating a wide range of straight-edge knives. Its five-stage process sharpens, repairs, and polishes blades with precision.

The compact, handheld design fits comfortably in the palm, allowing confident control and safe handling during use.

Constructed from durable ABS plastic, it offers a sturdy and long-lasting tool for continual knife care. This sharpener is versatile, suitable not only for kitchen knives but also pocket and hunting knives, proving its multipurpose value.

Operating the device is simple—insert the knife into the specified slot and pull gently to restore sharpness in minutes.

Unlike electric sharpeners, this manual option avoids risking blade damage from overheating or aggressive mechanical action. Its adjustable angles align with recommendations from America’s Test Kitchen for professional sharpening results.

Overall, it represents excellent value with quality craftsmanship and easy usability.

Pros

• Adjustable sharpening angles accommodate various blade types.
• Ergonomic, handheld design promotes safety and ease of use.
• Durable build ensures long-lasting performance and consistent results.

Cons

• Not suitable for serrated knives or scissors, limiting its scope.

The Precision Adjust 5-Stage Knife Sharpener is a dependable tool supporting superior blade maintenance. It offers a customizable sharpening experience aligned with expert recommendations, balancing quality, ease, and versatility.

7. Croco 5-in-1 Knife Sharpener

The Croco 5-in-1 Knife Sharpener is designed to breathe new life into your kitchen blades. It effortlessly restores and sharpens a variety of knives and scissors, making meal prep smoother and more precise. This sharpener combines convenience and craftsmanship in one compact tool.

Offering multiple sharpening options in a single device, it stands out as a practical addition to any kitchen. Its user-friendly design allows both beginners and experienced cooks to maintain their tools with confidence and ease.

Featuring a unique 3-step dial sharpening system, the Croco sharpener starts by restoring dull edges, sharpens them to perfection, then polishes for a smooth finish. Each stage requires just a few gentle passes, making blade maintenance simple and efficient. The five rotating sharpeners cover straight, serrated blades, and scissors, ensuring versatile usability.

The five rotating sharpeners cover straight, serrated blades, and scissors, ensuring versatile usability. Hooked on performance, the tungsten carbide and ceramic materials guarantee long-lasting sharpening quality and durability. A non-slip grip base keeps the sharpener stable during use, enhancing safety and precision.

Its ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue over extended sessions. Also included is a premium storage pouch, which protects the sharpener while keeping it clean and ready for the next task.

This tool is ideal for home cooks, chefs, and anyone wanting to keep knives at peak performance without professional intervention. Compared to single-function sharpeners, the Croco offers broader capability and a streamlined experience in one device.

Pros

• Multi-stage dial system restores, sharpens, and polishes blades effectively
• Supports straight blades, serrated knives, and scissors with five rotating sharpeners
• Durable tungsten carbide and ceramic materials ensure long-term use

Cons

• The compact size may be challenging for larger kitchen knives

Overall, the Croco 5-in-1 Knife Sharpener delivers an effective and versatile sharpening solution for various blade types. Its solid build and thoughtful design offer reliable performance while simplifying upkeep.

For those seeking a comprehensive sharpener that handles multiple blade styles, this tool represents a practical and efficient choice.

8. ChefsChoice Manual 2-Stage Knife Sharpener Gray

Achieve razor-sharp precision with the ChefsChoice Manual 2-Stage Knife Sharpener. Designed to restore and maintain the edge of your kitchen blades effortlessly, it combines innovation with ease of use for excellent results every time.

Whether you’re sharpening straight-edge or serrated knives, this sharpener delivers professional-grade performance. Its compact design fits comfortably in any kitchen setting.

The sharpener features a two-stage process using 100 percent diamond abrasives for exceptional edge retention. The first stage reshapes and sharpens the blade, while the second stage hones and polishes to a fine finish. This ensures a durable, razor-sharp edge suited for both home cooks and professionals.

Advanced CrissCross sharpening technology creates an ultra-sharp angle at either 15 or 20 degrees, which suits a variety of knives. Its precise bevel angle control offers consistency that results in effortless cutting performance. The handle is crafted with a Soft Touch surface, offering a secure grip during use, which improves safety and comfort.

The handle is crafted with a Soft Touch surface, offering a secure grip during use, which improves safety and comfort.

In addition to sharp kitchen knives, it can handle serrated blades and even sports or pocket knives. The separate sharpening and polishing stages extend the blade’s durability, maintaining an arch-shaped edge that resists dulling.

Pros

• Professional 2-stage sharpening with diamond abrasives for long-lasting edges
• Compatible with straight-edge, serrated, sports, and pocket knives
• Soft Touch handle provides comfort and secure grip during use

Cons

• May require multiple passes for severely dull or damaged blades

The ChefsChoice Manual 2-Stage Knife Sharpener offers reliable sharpening for a wide range of knives, delivering professional-grade results in a user-friendly design. Its durable diamond abrasive system and ergonomic features make it a valuable kitchen tool that quickly sharpens and polishes blades to perfection.

9. Work Sharp MK2 Electric Knife Sharpener

Experience effortless sharpening with the Work Sharp MK2 Electric Knife Sharpener. Designed to handle every blade in your kitchen and toolbox, it delivers precision and convenience in one compact device.

Its versatility makes it an excellent companion for maintaining sharp edges on knives and more.

Combining power with control, this sharpener adapts to various tools and knives, enhancing their longevity and performance. The efficient design ensures consistent results, allowing you to sharpen like a pro every time with minimal effort.

The Work Sharp MK2 Electric Knife Sharpener improves on its predecessor by offering expanded sharpening options. It features flexible abrasive belts that hug the blade’s edge, catering to diverse tools including serrated knives, scissors, and lawn mower blades.

Equipped with a two-speed motor, it provides the power needed for heavy-duty tasks and the finesse for delicate blades. The included edge guide supports the knife fully, improving precision through each sharpening pass.

Quality materials and expert engineering from Oregon ensure durability and accurate calibration.

Each sharpener undergoes thorough quality control for consistent performance, backed by a three-year warranty signaling confidence in its longevity. The straightforward setup and user-friendly design deliver sharp, razor edges quickly, saving time and avoiding frustration.

Perfect for professional cooks, DIYers, and garden tool owners seeking a reliable, all-in-one solution that provides excellent value and efficiency.

Pros

• Flexible abrasive belts conform to various blade shapes and tools
• Two-speed motor for controlled sharpening and heavy grinding
• Edge guide ensures consistent and precise blade sharpening

Cons

• Slightly bulky footprint may require dedicated counter space

Work Sharp MK2 offers unmatched versatility and ease of use, making it a smart investment for maintaining sharpness on an array of blades. The solid construction and thoughtful features deliver dependable results that extend tool life and sharpen effectively. A detailed technical overview of the sharpener follows for reference.

10. Work Sharp Precision Adjust Elite Knife Sharpener

Elevate your knife maintenance routine with the Work Sharp Precision Adjust Elite Knife Sharpener. Crafted to deliver professional-quality edges, it sharpens a wide range of blades, from kitchen knives to hunting and EDC pocket knives. Achieving a sharp, razor-like edge at home becomes a simple and quick process, eliminating the need for costly sharpening services.

Designed for precision, this sharpener allows angle adjustments from 15° to 30°, catering to various knife styles including Japanese, Western, hunting, and cleavers. Its user-friendly features provide a guided system making it accessible for beginners while satisfying the precision demands of experienced users.

The Work Sharp Precision Adjust Elite stands out with its versatile angle settings that enable customization tailored to your knives’ specific needs. Equipped with a complete kit including coarse and fine diamond plates, ceramic finishing rods, and a serrated blade rod, it covers every sharpening requirement. The inclusion of a tri-brasive attachment perfectly handles curved blades for comprehensive sharpening.

Its clamp and angle guide system ensure a consistent and foolproof sharpening experience that anyone can master. Durable, industrial-quality materials build confidence in its longevity. This sharpener is an excellent choice for home cooks, hunters, and anyone who values sharp blades for safety and efficiency.

This sharpener is an excellent choice for home cooks, hunters, and anyone who values sharp blades for safety and efficiency.

Not only does it revive standard straight-edged knives, but it also sharpens serrated blades with ease thanks to the dedicated ceramic rod. This feature saves users from expensive professional serration work. Compared to other sharpeners, it offers a refined combination of adjustability and ease, making it a highly valuable tool in any kitchen or field kit.

Compared to other sharpeners, it offers a refined combination of adjustability and ease, making it a highly valuable tool in any kitchen or field kit.

Pros

• Adjustable angles from 15° to 30° for precise sharpening.
• Complete kit includes diamond plates, ceramic rods, and attachments.
• Dedicated conical rod sharpens serrated blades effectively.

Cons

• Higher price point compared to basic sharpeners.

Offering professional precision and versatile use, the Work Sharp Precision Adjust Elite Knife Sharpener meets the needs of diverse users. Its robust build and comprehensive features deliver exceptional sharpening results with minimal effort. This sharpener is a solid investment for anyone keen on maintaining their knives in peak condition.

This sharpener is a solid investment for anyone keen on maintaining their knives in peak condition.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Knife Sharpener

Types of knife sharpeners

A reliable sharpener’s ability to interface smoothly with your kitchen setup and accommodate future needs can significantly impact its overall value. Electric models often come with features such as USB charging ports or replaceable sharpening guides, allowing for versatile use and easier maintenance. Manual devices tend to be more compact and portable but might lack options for additional attachments or upgrades.

Understanding how the sharpener can connect to power sources or integrate with existing tools helps ensure seamless operation during daily use.

Equally important is the potential for adding new functions or accessories over time. Some pull-through sharpeners offer modular components or adjustable angle settings, while whetstone systems might support various grit sizes that can be swapped out to refine sharpening precision.

Sharpening performance and efficiency

Most modern sharpeners are designed to accommodate a range of sharpening angles, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of different types of knives. This flexibility ensures that kitchen or specialty knives retain their original edge geometry, leading to better cutting performance and longer-lasting sharpness.

Beyond angle compatibility, the speed and ease of use largely determine how practical a sharpener is for everyday tasks; devices that provide quick sharpening without complicated steps tend to encourage regular maintenance, keeping blades consistently sharp without hassle. Additionally, the quality of the edge produced can vary significantly between models—some sharpeners create a precise, razor-sharp finish ideal for delicate slicing, while others may only achieve a basic edge best suited for rougher cuts. Considering these factors together helps ensure that your sharpener not only fits your knives perfectly but also enhances overall kitchen efficiency.

Durability and build quality

The materials used in the construction of a knife sharpener play a crucial role in its performance and lifespan. High-quality components such as reinforced plastics, stainless steel, or ceramic ensure the device withstands repeated use without degrading.

It’s equally important to consider how easy the tool is to maintain; models with removable parts or self-cleaning mechanisms help keep the sharpener functioning smoothly and hygienically over time.

Userfriendliness and safety

Many modern knife sharpeners include features that allow them to integrate smoothly with other kitchen gadgets or accommodate future upgrades, ensuring the tool remains useful as your needs evolve. Having multiple connection options or ports can provide versatility, making it easier to use with various power sources or accessories.

Additionally, some models offer slots or attachments for sharpening different types of blades, adding to their overall utility. Considering these aspects can save time and money by preventing the need for frequent replacements and ensuring a more seamless experience in the kitchen.

Price and warranty considerations

Reviews and recommendations from america’s test kitchen

Many top-rated sharpeners come equipped with versatile port options and modular features that allow for easy integration with other kitchen tools and accessories. This flexibility ensures the sharpener can adapt to various knife types and user needs over time. Without these capabilities, users might find their device becomes limiting as their collection or sharpening demands grow.

Experts highlight that models offering plug-and-play options or expandable configurations tend to deliver better long-term value and convenience.

• Pros: Enhanced user experience, ability to accommodate different blades, space-saving through combined functionalities.
• Cons: Higher initial cost, a steeper learning curve for complex models, and potential compatibility issues with some kitchen layouts.

Well-known retailers such as specialty kitchen stores and reputable online platforms typically stock these high-rated sharpeners. Purchasing from established sellers not only ensures genuine products but also provides access to customer support and warranties that might be crucial for such devices.

People Also Asked

America’s Test Kitchen recommends the Chef’sChoice Trizor 15XV as the best knife sharpener for home use due to its precision and ease of use. It effectively sharpens a variety of blade types, providing a long-lasting, sharp edge.

America’s Test Kitchen evaluates knife sharpeners by rigorously testing their sharpening performance, ease of use, and safety. They assess how effectively each sharpener restores blade sharpness and consider factors like durability and value.

According to America’s Test Kitchen reviews, a knife sharpener stands out by offering consistent, precise sharpening angles and durable abrasive materials that restore blades effectively. Additionally, ease of use and safety features are key factors that enhance its overall performance.

America’s Test Kitchen experts generally prefer electric knife sharpeners for their convenience and consistent results. However, they also recommend manual sharpeners for those who want more control and precision in sharpening.

The top-rated knife sharpeners from America’s Test Kitchen for performance and value include the Chef’sChoice Trizor XV EdgeSelect, known for its precision and ease of use, and the Work Sharp Culinary E5, praised for its versatility and affordability. Both models consistently deliver sharp, durable edges while offering excellent user-friendly features.

Conclusion

The best knife sharpener America’s Test Kitchen recommends offers a reliable balance of ease of use, sharpening precision, and durability. While it may not be the fastest option on the market, its consistent results make it suitable for home cooks who want well-honed blades without professional skills. Some models can be bulkier or pricier, which could be a drawback for those with limited kitchen space or budgets.

Some models can be bulkier or pricier, which could be a drawback for those with limited kitchen space or budgets. Overall, this sharpener is ideal for individuals seeking dependable maintenance for their knives, particularly those who value quality results over speed. Taking into account its strengths and minor limitations, this product provides confidence in keeping knives functional and sharp, making it a practical choice for everyday kitchen use.