Unless they are seriously expensive knives or we're talking about a cleaver, hone them instead of steeling them on a rod.

http://www.amazon.com/KitchenIQ-50009-Stage-Knife-Sharpener/dp/B001CQTLJM/ref=zg_bs_289867_1

I use this every day -- quick and easy and my knives have never been sharper.

Sur La Table. $5 a knife.

Sur La Table does it

Union Market, Eastern Market and La Cuisine in Old Town.

Yes, the knife shop at Union Market.

I'm not sure exactly where you are, but I've heard that Ace hardware in Tenleytown and Sur La Table sharpen knives.

Union Market.

I used to religiously sharpen my knives on a rod prior to use each time, but over the years have gotten lazy. I would like to get them professionally sharpened and then perhaps try to re-adopt this former habit of maintaining their sharpness. Any leads? TIA!