Cutting Boards and Constant Chaos
If I had to pick the one item in my kitchen that’s used more than anything else, it would definitely be my trusty old wood cutting board. That rectangular slab of wood has been with me for years, faithfully taking the daily chopping, banging, and stains (think: beets for juice!) like a pro. And while it may seem obvious to many, after we made the switch to a more natural lifestyle, I didn’t know how to properly clean my cutting board.
Let me rephrase that – after we made the switch to real food and natural cleaners, I didn’t know how to clean my cutting board, naturally. Growing up, my parents used those plastic cutting mats that were constantly being sprayed with a store-bought cleaning solution or bleach. I clearly remember the harsh bleach odor filling our kitchen at least once a week. Yuck! When I started to think about cleaning with natural ingredients, I had to research how exactly to get my cutting board clean without using harsh spray cleaners and bleach.
As it turns out, cleaning a cutting board naturally is an incredibly simple task. On my natural cleaning journey, I’ve also learned that there are different ways to “clean” a cutting board, depending on how it’s used: actual cleaning, deodorizing, and disinfecting. Today, I’m excited to share my practical tips and tricks for keeping your cutting boards (wood or otherwise) germ-free using simple DIY cleaners. No bleach allowed!
Cleaning a Wooden Cutting Board the Right Way
When it comes to cleaning my wood cutting board, I have a simple and effective routine. First, I make sure to clean it after each use. This helps prevent the buildup of food residue, bacteria, and unwanted odors.
According to the USDA, the key is to clean a cutting board “with hot, soapy water after each use; then rinse with clear water and air dry or pat dry with clean paper towels.” I personally like to use a reusable, clean dish towel to dry my board. If I have a sink full of hot soapy water, then I’ll just use that water, as long as it’s clean.
The key to effective cutting board cleaning is hot water and (natural) soap. I like to use a small amount of castile soap or Sal Suds (about a dime-size from the bottle), or a squirt of my homemade dish soap. Castile soap is a concentrated, vegetable-based soap made of gentle, pronounceable ingredients that’s perfect for cleaning everything from your face to your cutting boards.
One important note for wooden cutting boards: do not submerge the board in water (in a sink full of water) or put it in the dishwasher. This will eventually ruin the board and cause it to crack. If you’re using a silicone mat, submerging the mat in water and placing it in the dishwasher is just fine.
Deodorizing and Disinfecting Cutting Boards
In addition to regular cleaning, it’s important to deodorize and disinfect your cutting boards, especially if they’ve been used for strong-smelling foods like garlic, fish, or onions. This helps keep your boards fresh and germ-free.
One of my favorite natural deodorizing and disinfecting methods is to make a simple paste with baking soda and water. Just mix a few tablespoons of baking soda with enough water to form a spreadable paste. Spread the paste over the entire surface of the cutting board and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing. The baking soda will help absorb and neutralize any lingering odors.
Another great option is to use lemon juice or white vinegar. Simply spray or wipe the board with undiluted lemon juice or white vinegar, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse. These natural acids work as powerful disinfectants, killing off any bacteria or germs that may be lurking on the surface.
If you have a particularly stubborn odor or stain, you can try sprinkling some coarse salt over the board and scrubbing it with a half of a lemon. The abrasiveness of the salt and the acidity of the lemon will help lift any stubborn grime.
Keeping Wooden Cutting Boards in Tip-Top Shape
In addition to regular cleaning, deodorizing, and disinfecting, there are a few other tips to keep your wooden cutting boards in great condition for years to come:
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Condition the Wood: Once a month or so, use a food-grade mineral oil or beeswax-based wood conditioner to keep the wood from drying out and cracking. Simply rub a thin layer over the entire surface and let it soak in.
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Air Dry Thoroughly: After cleaning, make sure to air dry your wooden cutting board completely before storing it. Leaving any residual moisture on the surface can lead to warping or bacterial growth.
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Flip and Rotate: When not in use, try to flip and rotate your cutting board to distribute the wear and tear evenly across the surface.
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Avoid the Dishwasher: As mentioned earlier, never put a wooden cutting board in the dishwasher. The high heat and moisture can warp and crack the wood over time.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your cutting boards – whether wood, plastic, or silicone – looking and performing their best for years to come. And the best part? You can do it all using safe, natural ingredients found right in your own kitchen.
Wrapping Up
When it comes to keeping your kitchen clean and your family healthy, your cutting boards play a crucial role. That’s why it’s so important to give them the TLC they deserve with simple DIY cleaning methods.
Now that you know the ins and outs of naturally cleaning, deodorizing, and disinfecting your cutting boards, you can say goodbye to harsh chemical cleaners and hello to a sparkling, germ-free workspace.
Ready to put these tips into action? Head on over to Adam Cleaning’s website to check out our full line of natural cleaning products, perfect for keeping your cutting boards (and the rest of your kitchen) in tip-top shape.
