Wooden utensils are a timeless and essential part of many kitchens, offering both beauty and functionality. To ensure they last a lifetime, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to take proper care of your wooden kitchen tools.
1. Cleaning After Use: After each use, wash your wooden utensils with warm, soapy water. Avoid soaking them as prolonged exposure to water can cause the wood to swell and crack. Instead, wash them quickly and thoroughly, then rinse and pat dry with a clean towel.
2. Regular Oiling: Every few weeks, or when the wood starts to look dry, reapply a food-safe oil to your utensils. This regular maintenance will help to keep the wood conditioned and prevent it from drying out and cracking. Beewax can be used as an alternaive to oil.
3. Disinfecting: To disinfect wooden utensils, you can use a mild bleach solution (one teaspoon of bleach per quart of water) or white vinegar. Apply the solution with a cloth and wipe the utensils, then rinse them well with water and dry immediately. While this is a good precaution, if the utensils are kept clean and oiled, this isn’t really necessary.
4. Storing Properly: Store your wooden utensils in a dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A kitchen drawer or a utensil holder on the countertop works well. Make sure they are completely dry before storing to prevent mold and mildew growth.
5. Dealing with Stains and Odors: If your wooden utensils develop stains or odors, you can use a paste of baking soda and water to gently scrub the affected area. Rinse thoroughly afterward and apply a coat of oil to recondition the wood.
6. Avoiding Dishwashers: Avoid putting wooden utensils in the dishwasher. The high heat and prolonged exposure to water will damage the wood over time. Though accidentally using the dishwasher a couple times won’t affect the wood.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your wooden utensils looking beautiful and functioning well for many years to come. Remember, with the right care, wooden kitchen tools can be durable, hygienic, and a joy to use.