How do you properly maintain and care for sharpening stones, including cleaning and sharpening them to ensure optimal performance?

To properly maintain sharpening stones, clean them regularly with water and a brush to remove debris. Use a flattening stone to keep the surface level. To sharpen, soak the stone in water for 10-15 minutes, then use a consistent angle and pressure to sharpen blades. Rinse and dry the stone after use to prevent clogging.