Ever wondered what really matters when it comes to wooden cutting board care? Let’s break down everything you need to know about how to clean and care for your wooden cutting boards.
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If you’re a proud owner of a wooden cutting board, you know the joy of chopping veggies or slicing through juicy steaks on a beautifully crafted piece of wood. Wooden cutting boards add a touch of rustic charm to your kitchen and they are a practical tool for every home cook!
In this post, we will deep dive into how to clean and care for your wooden cutting boards so they can stay in tip-top shape!
This post is all about wooden cutting board care!
Wooden vs. Plastic Cutting Boards
First things first – why choose wood over plastic? Well, wooden cutting boards are not just a pretty face in your kitchen; they’re practical too! Wood has natural antimicrobial properties that help fight off bacteria. Plus, wooden boards are more forgiving on your knife’s edge, keeping those blades sharper for longer. That’s a win-win, right?
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Cleaning 101: Show Your Board Some Love
Now, let’s get down to business – keeping your wooden cutting board in top-notch condition. Here’s the lowdown on cleaning and caring for your trusty kitchen sidekick:
Soap and Water Dance
After the chopping party is over, give your wooden board a gentle wash with warm, soapy water. Avoid the dishwasher – it’s a bit too harsh for your board’s delicate personality.
Vinegar Spa Day
For a deeper clean, mix equal parts water and white vinegar. Let your board soak up this natural solution for a few minutes. Not only does it sanitize, but it also neutralizes odors – goodbye, garlic smell!
Salt & Lemon Scrub
Sprinkle some coarse salt over your board and use a lemon half to scrub away any stubborn stains or odors. This combo is like a spa day for your cutting board.
Oil It Up
Wooden boards appreciate a good massage – with mineral oil, that is. Apply a thin layer of food-grade mineral oil to keep the wood hydrated and prevent it from drying out or cracking.
Avoid Soaking & Air Dry
While a quick soak can be beneficial, avoid leaving your wooden utensils submerged in water for extended periods. Prolonged exposure to water can cause the wood to swell and lead to cracks. A quick towel drying followed by air drying is the best option to best preserve your wooden cutting board and avoid cracking the wood.
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Wooden Utensils
The love you give to your wooden cutting board can be extended to your wooden utensils as well. Here’s a quick guide to keeping your wooden spoons, spatulas, and other kitchen companions in tip-top shape:
1. Hand Wash with Mild Soap: Similar to cutting boards, hand wash your wooden utensils with warm, soapy water. Avoid the dishwasher to prevent the wood from drying out or warping.
2. Vinegar Soak: For a deeper clean, you can also give your wooden utensils a soak in a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. This helps sanitize and eliminate any lingering odors.
3. Oil Massage: Keep your wooden utensils hydrated by occasionally applying a thin layer of food-grade mineral oil. This prevents the wood from drying out and maintains its natural beauty.
4. Avoid Prolonged Soaking: While a quick soak can be beneficial, avoid leaving your wooden utensils submerged in water for extended periods. Prolonged exposure to water can cause the wood to swell and lead to cracks.
5. Air Dry: After washing, let your wooden utensils air dry completely before storing them. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as rapid drying can cause the wood to crack.
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Tips & Tricks
Rotate and Flip
To ensure even wear and tear, flip and rotate your cutting board regularly. This helps maintain its integrity over time.
Separate Raw and Cooked Foods
Avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards for raw meats and cooked foods. Your wooden board will thank you for the extra care!
Gentle on the Knife
Wooden boards are kinder to your knife’s edge than their plastic counterparts. Your knives will stay sharper, making your chopping experience smoother and more enjoyable.
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Recommendations
Here are some of my favorite wooden tools that I swear by. Choosing to purchase through any of the below links directly supports this blog. They are all Amazon affiliate links – which means I earn a small commission on each sale at no extra cost to you!
Wooden Cutting Boards
Wooden Utensils
Food Grade Mineral Oil
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OR click here for the entire “in the kitchen” category!
So, there you have it – a crash course in the art of caring for your wooden cutting board. Treat it well, and it will be your kitchen sidekick for years to come. Happy chopping!
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This post was all about Wooden Cutting Board Care.
Did you try these tips? Make sure to tag me @thespicegirlkitchen_ on Instagram or @thespicegirlkitchen on TikTok! I love seeing you CRUSH IT! I will be your ultimate hype woman!
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