How to Clean and Care for Wood and Bamboo Cutting Boards
Wood and bamboo boards are gentle on knife edges and look great on the counter. They need a little care to stay clean and in good shape.
Keep raw meat separate
Food safety experts recommend one board for raw meat, poultry and seafood, and another for produce and ready-to-eat foods. That helps prevent cross-contamination.
Wash right after use
Scrub with hot, soapy water, rinse and dry with a towel, then stand the board on its edge to air-dry. Never soak a wooden board or put it in the dishwasher; water and heat cause warping and cracks.
Oil it regularly
Once a month, or whenever it looks dry, rub in a thin coat of food-grade mineral oil or board cream. Let it soak in overnight and wipe off the extra.
Know when to replace it
- Deep knife grooves that are hard to clean.
- Cracks or splits.
- Smells that stay after washing.
- Stains that won’t come out with salt and lemon.
