How to clean and disinfect wooden chopping boards

Wooden chopping boards are essential kitchen items, which we use to chop and also to present our food. Cleanliness and appropriate maintenance are fundamental to guarantee that they last a long time and to avoid cross-contamination of different foods. We are going to provide you with a practical, effective, detailed guide on how to clean wooden chopping boards.

Required materials

• Hot water
• Mild soap or washing-up liquid
• Sponge or soft bristle brush
• White vinegar
• Baking powder
• Lemon
• Wood oil
• Coarse salt

Cleaning your wooden chopping board step by step

1. Daily cleaning

Rinse the board with hot water after each use to get rid of any food remains and bacteria.

Use mild washing-up liquid. Avoid aggressive detergents that could damage the wood.

Scrub the surface of the board using a sponge or brush. Make sure you clean all the corners and grooves.

Rinse it again with hot water and dry it immediately with a clean cloth. Never allow it to air dry, as prolonged moisture can deform the wood and enhance the growth of bacteria.

2. Weekly disinfecting
3. White vinegar: Vinegar is a natural disinfectant. Sprinkle a solution containing equal parts of white vinegar and water on the board. Allow it to stand for a few minutes and then rinse it with hot water.
4. Baking powder and Lemon: Sprinkle some baking powder on the board and scrub it with half a lemon, using the lemon as a sponge. This will help to get rid of stains and smells. Rinse well and dry off.
5. Monthly Maintenance
6. Mineral Oil: Apply a layer of mineral oil or specific oil for wooden boards over the entire surface. The oil will help to hydrate the wood, thereby preventing it from cracking and absorbing liquids. Leave the oil on overnight to soak in, and then remove any excess the next day with a clean cloth.
7. Repeat: This process should be repeated at least once a month, or more often if we use the board every day.

How to get rid of smells and stubborn stains

1. Coarse salt: Sprinkle a layer of coarse salt on the board. Scrub it using a damp cloth or half a lemon. The salt is a gentle abrasive which will help to get rid of stains and smells.
2. Baking powder: For more persisting stains, make a paste with baking powder and water. Apply the paste to the stains, allow it to work for a few minutes and then scrub it using a soft bristle scrubbing brush.

Common mistakes 

• Avoid the dishwasher: wooden chopping boards should never be washed in the dishwasher. The heat and water in the dishwasher can cause the wood to warp and crack.
• Do not soak: do not leave the board to soak, as it could swell and deform.
• Change sides: whenever possible, use one side of the board for cutting meat, and the other side for fruit and vegetables. 
• Renew in time: if your board has deep cracks or has lost its shape, it’s time to change it. Cracks can contain bacteria which are very difficult to eliminate, even with deep cleaning.