Guide to Cleaning Your Wood Cutting Board - Tips & Tricks

Supplies You'll Need

If you own a wood cutting board, then you know how crucial it is to keep it clean after every use. Not only does proper cleaning keep your cutting board in top condition, but it also prevents contamination and the spread of harmful bacteria. Here are some essential tips and tricks on how to clean a wood cutting board properly.

Cleaning Process

Before delving into the cleaning process, it's essential to make sure you have everything you need. Here's a list of the supplies required to clean a wood cutting board:

• Dish soap
• White vinegar
• Coarse salt
• A sponge or brush
• A clean cloth or paper towels
• Food-grade mineral oil

Make sure you have these items handy before starting to clean your cutting board.

Maintenance

Now that you have these items let's start with the cleaning process:

1. Start by wiping off any loose food fragments from the surface of the cutting board with a damp clean cloth or paper towel.

2. Next, sprinkle coarse salt over the cutting board's surface. This will create a mild abrasive that will help remove any stains and odors. Then, use a sponge or brush to scrub the salt over the cutting board's surface.

3. Rinse the board thoroughly with cold water, then wipe it down with a clean cloth or paper towel.

4. To disinfect the wood cutting board thoroughly, you will need to use a mixture of white vinegar and water. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water, dampen a clean cloth, and wipe the board's surfaces with the solution. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant that will kill 99% of bacteria on the surface of the wood.

5. Rinse the board thoroughly with cold water, then pat dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Conclusion

After cleaning your wood cutting board, you should maintain it well to keep it in good shape. Here's how:

1. To prevent your wood cutting board from drying and cracking, apply a thin layer of food-grade mineral oil to the surface. Mineral oil is the best product to use for a wood cutting board as it hydrates the wood without leaving any harmful residue.

2. Rest the board in a cool and dry place. Avoid placing the board directly on the countertop. This will help prevent the board from warping due to moisture absorption.

In summary, cleaning your wood cutting board properly is crucial to keep it hygienic and free of bacteria. Follow the tips mentioned above regularly to maintain a clean and long-lasting wood cutting board. Remember always to use food-grade materials when caring for your cutting board as they will not leave any harmful residue or chemicals. Happy cleaning!

For more information on cleaning and home improvement, check out The Spruce and Better Homes & Gardens.