Wood care

Care of wooden cutting boards and other wooden products 

Wooden products such as cutting boards, kitchen utensils and furniture are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and durable if properly cared for. Here is a detailed guide on how to care for wooden cutting boards and other wooden products to extend their life and keep them in top condition.

General care of wood products

1. cleaning

   • Clean after each use : Wooden cutting boards and utensils should be cleaned after each use. Use warm water and mild soap. Do not immerse the wood in water as it may swell and crack.
   • Do not put in the dishwasher : The heat and humidity in the dishwasher can warp and damage the wood.
   • Drying : After cleaning, dry the wood thoroughly. Allow it to air dry upright so that both sides can dry evenly.

2. disinfection

   • Vinegar or lemon juice : To kill bacteria, wipe the cutting board regularly with vinegar or lemon juice. These natural disinfectants are safe for food contact.
   • Salt and lemons : For a deeper clean, sprinkle coarse salt on the board and rub it with half a lemon. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes before rinsing and drying.

3. Care oil

   • Regular oiling : Wooden cutting boards and utensils should be oiled regularly to protect the wood from moisture and stains. Use a food-safe oil such as mineral oil or special cutting board oil.
   • How to use : Apply a generous amount of oil to the entire surface and allow it to absorb for a few hours or overnight. Wipe off any excess oil with a clean cloth.
   • Frequency : Oil treatments should be done monthly or more frequently depending on use. When the wood looks dry or feels rough, it is time to oil.

Specific care for different wood products

1. Wooden cutting boards

   • Removing stains : Stubborn stains can be removed with a paste made from baking soda and water. Rub the paste onto the stain, let it sit, then rinse.
     
     

2. Wooden utensils (e.g. spoons, scrapers)

   • No extreme temperatures : To avoid warping and cracking, do not expose wooden utensils to extreme temperatures. Do not leave them in hot pots and avoid microwaves and ovens.
   • Regular cleaning and maintenance : Clean wooden utensils such as cutting boards and oil them regularly to keep the wood fibers flexible and water-resistant.

3. Wooden furniture

   • Dust removal : Dust wooden furniture regularly with a soft, dry cloth.
   • Polish : Occasionally use a furniture polish or wood conditioner to nourish the wood and maintain its shine.
   • Protect from sun and moisture : Avoid placing wooden furniture in direct sunlight or in damp areas to prevent discoloration and warping. Use coasters and placemats to protect surfaces from heat and moisture.

Long-term care and restoration

1. Grind

   • Worn surfaces : If the surface of a wood product is rough or badly scratched, light sanding can help. Use fine-grit sandpaper to gently abrade the surface, then oil the wood thoroughly.

2. Repairs

   • Cracks and splinters : Small cracks and splinters can be repaired with wood glue. Apply the glue to the damaged area and press the pieces together until the glue dries. Once dry, sand the surface smooth and oil it.

Conclusion

Proper care of wooden cutting boards and other wood products requires regular cleaning, disinfection and oil treatments. These measures ensure that the wood remains not only beautiful, but also functional and durable. Wood products are a valuable investment in quality and aesthetics, and with the right care they can provide years of enjoyment.