How to Clean a Wooden Cutting Board
Keeping a wooden cutting board clean is essential for both hygiene and durability. These boards are workhorses in the kitchen, but they require a bit more attention than plastic ones. The good news is you can get yours spotless using simple ingredients you already have. Here’s exactly how to clean a cutting board made of wood the right way.
Start With a Scrub of Kosher Salt and Lemon
Sprinkle kosher salt generously over the surface of the board. Cut a lemon in half and use the cut side to scrub the salt into the wood. The salt helps lift grime and residue, while the lemon naturally freshens and disinfects. Focus on stained spots or areas with deep grooves. This first step removes buildup and sets the stage for a deeper clean.
Follow With a Drizzle of Dish Soap
Once you’ve given the board a good scrub with salt and lemon, give it a quick rinse or wipe. Then drizzle on dish soap. This will help continue the cleaning process. Think of this as a second wave that gets into the areas the salt couldn’t reach.
Now Add Baking Soda and Give It A Scrub
Add a little baking soda right on top of the dish soap. Use the same lemon half or a clean sponge to scrub it all in. The soap helps lift grease and food oils, combining with the baking soda to form a powerful paste. Be thorough here and make sure to cover every inch of the surface.
Let the Mixture Sit for Maximum Effect
After scrubbing, don’t rinse right away. Let the baking soda and dish soap mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This gives the cleaning agents time to work deeper into the wood, helping release trapped debris and neutralize odors. Leaving it alone briefly makes the next step more effective.
Pour on Vinegar and Keep Scrubbing
Now it’s time for the satisfying part. Pour a small amount of white distilled vinegar over the board. As it hits the baking soda, it will start to bubble. Use your lemon again to scrub the fizzing mixture into the board. This reaction helps break down any residue still hanging on and deepens the clean.
Rinse With Hot Water Until Completely Clean
Once you’re finished scrubbing, rinse the board well under hot running water. Make sure to remove every bit of the paste and any loosened food particles. Rinse both sides and the edges to be safe. You want a board that feels totally clean to the touch.
Dry Thoroughly Before Storing
Pat the board dry with a clean towel, then let it air dry completely. Prop it upright or lay it flat in a well-ventilated spot. Never store it wet or it may warp or develop mold. If you want to go the extra mile, rub in a bit of food-safe mineral oil once it’s dry to condition the wood and keep it from cracking.
Learning how to clean a wooden cutting board properly keeps your prep space safe and your board in great shape. By using a few simple kitchen staples and a method that actually works, you can keep your board looking and performing like new. This quick routine is easy to repeat and doesn’t rely on any harsh chemicals.
