Vintage Presto Aluminum Cheese Slicer

A Vintage Presto Aluminum Cheese Slicer is a manual kitchen tool designed to cut blocks of cheese into thin, even slices. Many vintage Presto slicers are made from lightweight aluminum and use a sharp cutting wire or blade that slides through the cheese.

Parts of a Vintage Presto Aluminum Cheese Slicer

Depending on the model, it usually has:

1. Aluminum frame/body – The main handle and support structure.
2. Cutting wire or blade – The thin metal part that actually slices the cheese.
3. Handle or grip – Where you hold and press the slicer.
4. Cheese platform/roller (on some models) – Helps guide the cheese while slicing.
5. Adjustment parts (on some models) – Allow different slice thicknesses.

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How to Use a Vintage Presto Aluminum Cheese Slicer (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the Cheese

• Use a firm or semi-firm cheese for best results.
• Good choices:
  • Cheddar
  • Swiss
  • Gouda
  • Edam
  • Monterey Jack
  • Colby
• Avoid very soft cheeses like cream cheese because they will stick and crush.

Tip: Chill the cheese in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes before slicing. Cold cheese cuts more cleanly.

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2. Inspect the Slicer

Before using:

• Check that the cutting wire/blade is tight and not bent.
• Make sure the aluminum frame is not cracked.
• Clean off any old residue or oxidation from storage.

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3. Position the Cheese

• Place the cheese block on a stable cutting surface or in the slicer’s cheese area (depending on the model).
• Hold the cheese firmly so it does not move.

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4. Slice the Cheese

1. Hold the slicer by its handle.
2. Place the cutting wire/blade against the edge of the cheese.
3. Apply steady downward pressure.
4. Move the slicer smoothly through the cheese.
5. Lift the slicer and repeat for the next slice.

Do not force it quickly; slow, even pressure gives better slices.

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5. Adjust Slice Thickness (If Your Model Allows)

Some Presto cheese slicers have an adjustable mechanism.

• For thin sandwich slices: use a lighter angle or thinner setting.
• For thicker serving slices: increase the distance between the cutting wire and guide.

If there is no adjustment, the slicer’s design determines the thickness.

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Cleaning and Care

After Each Use:

• Wash with warm water and mild dish soap.
• Use a soft sponge or cloth.
• Dry immediately to prevent corrosion.

Avoid:

• Dishwasher cleaning (older aluminum can discolor or react with detergents).
• Steel wool or harsh abrasives.
• Leaving cheese residue on the wire.

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Restoring a Vintage Aluminum Presto Slicer

If it is old:

1. Wash with warm soapy water.
2. Remove stuck cheese with a soft brush.
3. For dull aluminum, gently polish with an aluminum-safe polish.
4. Replace the cutting wire if it is rusty, loose, or broken.

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Safety Tips

• The cutting wire/blade can be sharp.
• Keep fingers away from the cutting edge.
• Do not use excessive force.
• Keep it away from children.

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Best Cheeses for a Vintage Slicer

A vintage Presto aluminum cheese slicer is mainly a precision slicing tool, not a cheese grater or cutter for very hard cheeses. With chilled cheese and gentle pressure, it can still produce clean slices even decades after manufacture.