Wooden kitchenware, such as cutting boards, utensils, bowls, and serving trays, adds a natural and timeless charm to any kitchen. Not only are these items eco-friendly and durable, but they also provide a warm, rustic feel that plastic and metal can't match.
However, to keep your wooden kitchenware looking beautiful and functioning well, proper care is essential.
In this guide, we'll share some valuable tips to help you maintain your wooden kitchenware and extend its lifespan.
Hand Wash Only
One of the most important rules for caring for wooden kitchenware is to always wash it by hand. Unlike plastic or stainless steel, wood is a natural material that can warp, crack, or lose its finish when exposed to extreme heat or moisture.
How to Hand Wash Wooden Kitchenware
- Use Mild Soap and Warm Water: Clean your wooden kitchenware with a soft sponge, mild dish soap, and warm water. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach, as they can strip the wood's natural oils and damage its surface.
- Scrub Gently: Scrub the surface gently to remove food residues. For cutting boards, make sure to clean both sides to prevent warping.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the wooden item thoroughly to remove any soap residue, which can affect the wood's natural luster and may leave a soapy taste.
What to Avoid
- No Dishwasher: Never place wooden kitchenware in the dishwasher. The combination of hot water, steam, and strong detergents can cause wood to warp, crack, or splinter.
- No Soaking: Avoid soaking wooden items in water, as prolonged exposure can lead to swelling, cracking, or splitting of the wood fibers.
Dry Immediately After Washing
Proper drying is crucial to prevent moisture from seeping into the wood, which can lead to mold growth, warping, or cracking.
Best Practices for Drying Wooden Kitchenware
- Wipe with a Clean Towel: After washing, use a clean, dry towel to remove excess water from the surface.
- Air Dry Upright: Place the item upright on a drying rack or a clean, dry surface. Ensure there is enough air circulation around it to allow complete drying.
- Avoid Direct Heat: Keep wooden kitchenware away from direct sunlight or heat sources like stovetops or radiators, as excessive heat can cause the wood to dry out too quickly and crack.
Oil Regularly to Keep the Wood Hydrated
Wood is a porous material that can dry out over time, causing it to become brittle and prone to cracks. Regular oiling helps to keep wooden kitchenware hydrated, enhancing its natural beauty and durability.
How to Oil Wooden Kitchenware
- Choose the Right Oil: Use food-safe oils such as mineral oil, beeswax, coconut oil, or walnut oil. Avoid using vegetable oils, as they can turn rancid over time and create unpleasant odors.
- Apply Generously: Pour a small amount of oil onto a clean cloth or paper towel and rub it into the wood in circular motions. Make sure to cover the entire surface, including edges and handles.
- Let It Soak In: Allow the oil to soak into the wood for several hours or overnight. This helps the wood absorb the oil and regain its natural moisture balance.
- Wipe Off Excess: After the oil has been absorbed, use a clean cloth to wipe off any excess oil from the surface. Your wooden kitchenware should feel smooth and non-greasy to the touch.
Frequency of Oiling
- New Items: For new wooden kitchenware, oil it once a week for the first month to build up a protective layer.
- Regular Maintenance: After the initial period, oil your wooden items once a month or whenever they appear dry or dull.
Sanitize to Prevent Bacteria Growth
While wood has natural antibacterial properties, it’s still important to sanitize wooden kitchenware regularly to prevent bacteria buildup, especially for items like cutting boards that come into contact with raw meat.
How to Sanitize Wooden Kitchenware
- Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the wooden surface, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it off with a clean cloth. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant that helps eliminate bacteria.
- Lemon and Salt Scrub: For a deeper clean, sprinkle coarse salt over the surface of the wood, then rub it with half a lemon. The acid in the lemon and the abrasive salt work together to remove stains and bacteria. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Apply a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution to the wood, let it sit for a few minutes, and then rinse with water. This method is effective for disinfecting without damaging the wood.
Address Stains and Odors Promptly
Wood can absorb odors and stains from certain foods, such as garlic, onions, or berries. While addressing these issues promptly to keep your wooden kitchenware looking and smelling fresh, it's also a good time to enjoy a break and perhaps explore some leisure activities, like playing at the best blackjack online casino to unwind.
How to Remove Stains and Odors
- Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with water to create a thick paste. Apply the paste to the stained area and scrub gently with a soft brush or sponge. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.
- Sunlight Treatment: Sunlight can help naturally bleach and remove stubborn stains from wooden items. After cleaning, place your wooden kitchenware in a sunny spot for a few hours, but avoid prolonged exposure to prevent drying or cracking.
Store Wooden Kitchenware Properly
Proper storage is vital to prevent damage and maintain the beauty of your wooden kitchenware.
Tips for Storing Wooden Kitchenware
- Avoid Humid Environments: Store wooden items in a cool, dry place away from excessive humidity, which can cause swelling and mold growth.
- Use Drawer Liners: If storing wooden utensils in a drawer, use non-slip drawer liners to prevent scratches and minimize movement.
- Hang Cutting Boards: If possible, hang cutting boards on a wall-mounted rack to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.
Conclusion
With proper care and maintenance, your wooden kitchenware can last for years, adding natural beauty and functionality to your kitchen. By following these tips—hand washing, drying immediately, oiling regularly, sanitizing, addressing stains, and storing properly—you can keep your wooden items in excellent condition and enjoy their timeless appeal for generations to come. Remember, a little care goes a long way in preserving the longevity and beauty of your wooden kitchen essentials.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Olivia Poglianich
Content Strategist
Olivia Poglianich is a nomadic brand strategist and copywriter in the wooden crafts and 3D product design space who has worked with brands such as Visa, Disney and Grey Goose. Her writing has taken her all over the world, from a Serbian music festival to a Malaysian art and culture event. Olivia is a graduate of Cornell University and is often writing or reading about travel, hospitality, the start-up ecosystem or career coaching. Her latest interests are at the intersection of web3 and communal living, both on and offline.
