When you have a whetstone, it becomes necessary to maintain it to extend its lifespan. To clean it, use a soft scrubbing brush or a toothbrush with honing oil to scrub the stone gently in a circular motion. After cleaning, wipe the whetstone with a damp cloth and allow it to air-dry completely. Lastly, store the whetstone in its original case to protect it from any damage.
Additionally, to maintain your whetstone, regularly use the included flattening stone. The surface of the whetstone can become uneven over time, affecting its effectiveness. Wet the flattening stone with water and rub it in a circular motion across the whetstone's surface, focusing on any uneven areas. This will help maintain a flat surface for optimal sharpening results.