for everyday use, like chopping vg or meat, you may simply use them and wash up right away; only for heavy use, you need the wood ones, certainly you need both. then every month, throw away the flexible ones, get another pair; the smaller one, you may cut an apple every evening for your little one. I do the same for almost 15 years for my son. for the wok, my secret weapon is the one bought in costco a few years ago, made in US, Ameriware, Ti. &Ceramic, go online, to order one, trust me on this one. you look like a nice guy, just need some good advices.