Wooden chopping boards are hygienic, durable, and environmentally friendly. They are also easy to clean and sanitize. However, they must be treated regularly to keep them in good condition.
This dual-sided board has a juice groove on one side and a flat surface on the other. It has rubber edging and feet that prevent slippage while chopping. It is lightweight and easy to grip.
They are easy to clean
Wooden chopping boards have been around for generations and offer a wide array of benefits. They are easy to clean, sanitize, and maintain. While some people believe that wood’s porous nature makes it unsanitary, research has shown that certain types of wood, like maple, have natural antibacterial properties. This means that if you wash your board thoroughly after every use, harmful bacteria will be killed and trapped in the pores of the wood.
To clean your wooden chopping board, simply wash it with hot water and mild dish soap after each use. Rinse both sides and dry thoroughly. You can also soak your chopping board in a mixture of one part distilled white vinegar to four parts warm water. Soak it for a minute or two (not too long to prevent warping). This method will also kill germs hiding in the crevices of your chopping board. This is a great alternative to using household cleaners that may contain dangerous chemicals.
They are durable
Wooden chopping boards are incredibly durable, able to withstand abrasions from knives and other kitchen tools. They also offer superior moisture control compared to non-absorbent materials like glass or plastic. This feature helps prevent puddles that may cause slipping and knife damage. Moreover, it allows the cutting board to be cleaned more thoroughly after use.
Unlike plastic, which becomes knife-scarred with use and can harbour harmful bacteria, wooden chopping boards have natural antibacterial properties. Studies show that certain types of wood, such as eucalyptus and maple, release compounds that actively suppress the growth of harmful bacteria.
Moreover, they are environmentally friendly, a major plus for anyone who cares about sustainable and responsible cooking. Unlike plastic, which is derived from non-renewable resources and contributes to plastic pollution, wooden chopping boards are made from renewable, biodegradable wood that can be harvested responsibly and recycled as needed. They are also a smart investment that can last for years, if not decades, when properly maintained.
They are easy to sanitize
Wooden chopping boards are less prone to cracking and warping than plastic, but they do require a bit more maintenance. They must be hand-washed and regularly oiled and conditioned to keep them in good condition. Luckily, these are easy to do with everyday household products.
Start with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. This will sanitize the board and lighten any stains. You can also use coarse salt or baking soda on your wooden cutting board and rub it in. Then, rinse and dry the board.
You can also clean a wood cutting board with a bleach solution. Mix 2 teaspoons of bleach with a gallon of water, wipe the board, and then rinse. This should be done monthly or after working with raw meat to keep the board sanitized. You can also use a bit of kosher salt and half of a lemon to scrub the surface of your board and clean and deodorize it.
They are easy to maintain
Wooden chopping boards are easy to maintain and keep clean. Simply wash the board with hot soapy water and rinse. Rinse thoroughly to ensure all traces of food and dirt have been removed. After washing, dry the board with a clean cloth or paper towel. Be sure to dry the board vertically to prevent water pools from forming in the corners.
Once a month, apply a generous layer of food-grade mineral oil or a food-safe wax on your wooden cutting board. Use a clean cloth or paper towel to evenly distribute the oil over your entire board, including any grooves or grips. Be sure to buff out any excess oil after letting it soak in for several hours or overnight.
If your chopping board is smelling musty, try scrubbing it with some bicarbonate of soda and then soaking it in lemon juice or pure white vinegar. Vinegar has a low pH value and destroys bacteria.