She Strengthens

The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning and Maintaining Your Wooden Cutting Board

Why Choose Wood?

When it comes to adding a touch of elegance to your meal prep routine, a wooden cutting board is the perfect choice. Not only do they provide a stylish backdrop for your fruits, veggies, and meats, but they also offer several benefits over their plastic counterparts. For one, wood boards won’t dull your knives, and they’re naturally resistant to harboring harmful bacteria.

Daily Cleaning Made Easy

One common misconception about wooden cutting boards is that they’re difficult to clean and maintain. But fear not! Washing your board after each use is a breeze. Simply wash it with a bit of dish soap, rinse with hot water, wipe it clean, and let it dry upright. This quick process takes less time than running it through the dishwasher.

The Anti-Microbial Properties of Wood

Wood, especially hardwood, has natural anti-microbial properties that make it an ideal choice for cutting boards. The capillaries in the wood grain pull fluids down into the board, trapping bacteria and killing them off as the board dries. Studies have shown that bacteria linger significantly less on wood than on plastic.

Deep Cleaning and Disinfecting Methods

Every few weeks, give your wood board a deep clean and disinfecting treatment using one of these methods:

• Lemon and Salt: Sprinkle coarse salt on the board, rub with a lemon half, and let it sit for 5 minutes before rinsing and drying.
• Vinegar: Mix 1 part white vinegar with 4 parts water, soak the board for a few minutes, then rinse and dry.
• Bleach: Add 1 tablespoon of bleach to 1 gallon of water, soak the board for a few minutes, then rinse and dry.

Maintaining Your Wood Cutting Board

To keep your board in top condition, it’s essential to oil it regularly. This prevents cracking, drying, and warping, and maintains its anti-microbial properties. Use food-grade mineral oil only, and apply a thin coat to the entire surface once a month after disinfecting. Buff the oil into the wood using a circular motion, and let it soak in for a few hours.

The Bottom Line

With these simple cleaning and maintenance methods, you can enjoy your wooden cutting board for years to come. It’s a worthwhile investment for any home cook or chef, offering a unique blend of style, functionality, and sanitation.