How to Clean, Disinfect, and Care for Wooden Spoons+Utensils

Learn the best way to clean, disinfect, and care for your spoons and wooden utensils without any fancy supplies and no harsh chemicals needed!

Recently I have switched to using more wooden spoons and utensils when I am cooking since we are trying to use less plastic. But I have to admit, I actually ruined my first set because I didn't know the proper way to take care of them (oops!) Ever since then, I have fallen in love with them because they don't get hot like metal spoons, and won't scratch non-stick pans. 

Since I want to keep my wooden kitchenware for years to come, I just add this and caring wooden cutting boards (using a cut side of a halved lemon) to my cleaning routine, that way I don't forget. 

You can also learn how I clean, remove sticky residue, and reseason my wooden salad bowls. In my opinion, these are kitchen staples to have and they look so pretty! 

How to Clean Wooden Kitchen Utensils 

When it comes to daily cleaning you'll need hot soapy water (mild soap).

1. Use a dishcloth or the scratchy side of your sponge (or a soft scrub brush) to remove food residue. If they are really dirty (from stuff like dried tomato sauce) or have food stains, you can make a paste out of water and baking soda and gently rub it on. 
2. Rinse with warm water and dry with a clean cloth. 
3. Allow them to air dry before storing them in a kitchen drawer. 

Why It's Not a Good Idea To Put Your Trusty Wooden Spoons in the Dishwasher

Since wood is a natural material and porous, that means it will soak up water. Eventually, with prolonged exposure, this will cause it to swell and crack. 

The other reason is because of the extreme temperatures on the dry cycle. This removes the finish, makes those tiny cracks larger, dries them out, and will warp wooden items. 

Does Boiling Water Clean Wooden Spoons?

The high temperatures from the boiling water can clean wooden spoons and remove food particles, but the boiling method shouldn't be used more often than once per month. The high heat can cause cracking, drying out, and warping. 

Disinfecting Wooden Spoons in a Couple of Easy Steps

Even though wood utensils have antibacterial properties, I recommend deep cleaning them once a month. If you don't use them as often you could go longer. 

1. Fill a large container with hot water. 
2. Microwave it for a minute or two. 
3. Add about 10 drops of lemon essential oil to the water. This will help to disinfect and deodorize. 
4. Place the spoons in the container and let them set for 10-15 minutes. 
5. Take the spoons out, rinse them off, dry them with a towel, then let them air dry the rest of the way on a drying mat. 

How and When to Oil Your Wood Cooking Utensil 

An easy way to extend the life of your wooden kitchen tools is oiling them once a month. Not only does it keep them from drying out, but it protects against germs and bacteria. 

What You'll Need 

• Boo's Mystery Wood Oil - this is my favorite brand to use because it's budget friendly and works well. However, some like to use food-safe mineral oil, olive oil, linseed oil, or coconut oil, as well as wood butter. 

1. Before oiling, wash them in plain water with a mild dish soap to remove any stuck-on food (if they are already dirty). 
2. Allow them to dry completely. 
3. Use a paper towel or old rag, and pour a little oil on. Rub to coat the cooking tools. Then prop it up to dry. 
4. Sometimes you may need to apply more if the spoons are really dry. 
5. Be sure the oil is completely soaked in before using. 

Helpful Tips 

• Do not apply any varnishes or sealers to your wooden tools if they are not food safe. As they heat up, they will crack and peel. 
• We do not recommend using vegetable oils because not only do they go rancid over time, but it can be hard for them to dry and depending on the type of wood, they can discolor. 
• Apply the oil in a thin coat, then apply more if you need it. Too much oil will cause a sticky buildup. 
• Some like to use a beeswax compound, however, it can melt when it reaches high heat (while you are cooking with the spoons). 

If it's been a long time since you really deep cleaned your wooden spoons, good news! The process is super simple, removes tough stains, and oiling will keep them in tip-top shape! 

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