How to Clean Wooden Kitchen Utensils: A Step-by-Step Guide

Wooden kitchen utensils, like spoons and cutting boards, are essential tools in the kitchen. They provide a natural touch and are gentle on non-stick cookware. However, these utensils can absorb dirt and oils, making cleaning necessary.

To keep your wooden utensils clean, you'll need specific items to eliminate odors, oils, and stains. Regular cleaning with mild dish soap prevents stains. For stained utensils, gather these materials:

• Mild dish soap
• Lemon juice
• Baking soda
• Salt mixture (fine and coarse salt)
• Hot water
• Sponge
• Dish drying towel

Step 1: Wash Your Utensils Thoroughly

Start by washing your utensils in hot water with dish soap. Pay special attention to crevices. Use a soft sponge with an abrasive side to scrub tough stains. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry before proceeding.

Step 2: Squeeze Lemon Juice Over Wooden Spoons

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over your utensils. For spoons, place them in a container to hold the juice. For cutting boards, apply lemon juice directly. The acidic lemon juice helps dissolve stains. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, white vinegar can be used, though its smell may be less pleasant.

Step 3: Add Salt and Baking Soda

Sprinkle a mixture of fine and coarse salt along with baking soda over the utensils. Let this mixture bubble briefly. Then, use a cloth, sponge, or lemon rind to scrub the surfaces. Coarse salt gets into small crevices, while baking soda acts as an abrasive, stain remover, and deodorizer. This mixture helps eliminate mold and bacteria.

Step 4: Scrub the Stains Away

Scrub the areas with heavier stains, including the handles. A clean toothbrush can effectively reach slots in wooden spoons. Ensure every inch of the surface is scrubbed thoroughly.

Step 5: Rinse and Store Upright to Dry

Rinse your utensils and pat them dry with a towel. Store them in a well-ventilated area, allowing them to air dry completely. For added protection, seal dry wooden items with edible oil, such as mineral oil, coconut oil, or olive oil.

Maintain your wooden utensils by cleaning them after each use. This practice prevents food and oil stains while reducing odors.

Here are additional maintenance tips:

• Avoid the dishwasher for wooden utensils, including spoons. High heat and pressure may cause the wood to splinter. Hand wash instead.
• Seal utensils with food-safe mineral oil. This oil penetrates the wood, creating a water-resistant layer that prevents mold.
• Ensure utensils are dry before storing them. Storing wet or stained items encourages mold growth.

• Avoid soaking wooden spoons while cooking; the wood can absorb oils and smells.
• Use gentle techniques when cutting on wooden boards, as they can splinter easily with excessive force.

Earlier, SSP told how to easily remove peanut skin.