Learn How to Disinfect Wooden Kitchen Utensils

Learning how to correctly disinfect wooden kitchen utensils is more important than you might think. These items are used in food preparation and cooking and as such, keeping them hygienically clean is vital.

Although wood is a durable material and wooden utensils prevent scratching, they must still be washed and cleaned thoroughly. This is because, being a porous material, wood is prone to accumulating bacteria, fungi, and grease, which could affect your health.

The good news is that by using cleaning products commonly found in the home, you can keep your wooden utensils clean and safe.

How to disinfect wooden utensils

Now that you know why it’s important to disinfect wooden kitchen utensils, it’s time to find out how to do it. Keep reading because we’re going to give you several options.

Hot, soapy water

Hot water is a necessity if you’re looking to disinfect wooden utensils. To do this, you need to submerge the utensil in boiling water, this will help to quickly remove food debris. Add a generous amount of liquid soap or degreaser to the water too.

After the wooden utensil has been submerged for a while, apply some soap directly to the utensil, rubbing it to completely remove any traces of grease and debris. Finally, dry it with a dry towel so that the wood doesn’t retain any moisture.

Use lemon to disinfect wooden utensils

Using lemon juice will help to disinfect your kitchen utensils, as well as eliminate grease and bad odors. To disinfect them with lemon, rub slices of this fruit all over the wood. Do this after you’ve removed all food debris.

After letting the lemon act for a few minutes, it should be rinsed with plenty of soap and water, repeating the process we mentioned above. Once you dry the utensil with a soft towel, you’ll also notice the wood is brighter.

Sodium bicarbonate

Sodium bicarbonate is recommended for wooden utensils with stains and accumulations of food. This should be spread over the utensil and complemented with lemon. Let it act for a few minutes and then rub it in to remove the stains.

By doing this, you’ll not only remove the surface food debris, but you’ll also eliminate hidden germs. Remember, if left untreated, these elements could grow fungi or bacteria that pass into food. However, don’t use bicarbonate regularly, because it can end up damaging the wood. 

Vinegar: how to disinfect wooden utensils

To disinfect wooden utensils with vinegar, you’ll need to use a considerable amount. For this, you’ll need a container where you can place and submerge the utensils in equal parts hot water and vinegar. Then, leave them to soak for up to 20 minutes for it to take effect.

The vinegar helps to renew wooden surfaces and eliminates any accumulated bad odors. When you remove them, wash them well with liquid soap and water and dry them with a soft towel. Don’t let them air dry, otherwise, the moisture can penetrate and damage the wood. 

Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is very helpful for whitening a surface and for avoiding infections. It’s perfect for cleaning kitchen utensils, as it’s simple, quick, and can be used frequently.

In a large container, mix hydrogen peroxide with water and submerge your wooden utensils completely. You can leave them to soak for up to 12 hours. When you remove them, you’ll notice that the food stains have vanished. Wash them well with liquid soap and dry them with a soft cloth.

How to extend the life of your wooden utensils

In addition to knowing how to disinfect wooden kitchen utensils, you should also know how to maintain them and care for them on a daily basis. To do this, you can use oils such as mineral or coconut oils that’ll add shine and prevent increasing the porosity of the wood.

You only need to rub a little oil over the entire utensil, let it act for ten minutes, and then rinse with plenty of water. Try it at home and enjoy your elements for longer.