My old #5 and #7 have had no-telling how many times the nylon thongs have been totally blood soaked. When I get back to the kitchen, I just run the cord through hot water a few times and then squeeze in paper towels. Still look good after 30 years of use. Never had an issue with the thong getting caught in the brush; had the keeper snap come un-snapped many times, that's why I prefer a pouch type sheath.

Pap