How to Clean Wooden Spoons
How to clean wooden spoons the easy way, removing stains and odors in the process. Keep them looking and smelling good!
Wooden spoons are a classic kitchen staple, and they have a place of prominence on my countertop. I reach for them nearly every time I’m cooking or baking, and they get a lot of use. They’re inexpensive, durable, and versatile–making them one of the best kitchen tools available. Unlike metal spoons, they don’t scratch cookware, heat quickly, or react with acids. And nothing mixes in chocolate chips like a wooden spoon!
Heavy use also means they also absorb a lot of odors, oils, and stains. Fortunately it’s very easy to deep clean wooden spoons, and you can do it whenever needed.
How to Clean Wooden Spoons
There are a few different ways you can deep clean your wooden spoons. Before each of these methods, wash them in hot and soapy (mild soap) water, then rinse well and air dry.
AFTER EACH TIME YOU USE WOODEN SPOONS:
Rinse them directly after each use. Wash with hot and soapy water (mild soap), rinse well, then let air dry on a clean dishtowel. Don’t put them in the dishwasher! Letting them soak in dishwater (especially with other silverware or dishes) can allow more bacteria in. These things will help keep your wooden spoons clean, and prevent them from collecting bacteria.
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Method 1: CLEANING WOODEN SPOONS
Fill a large bowl with a 1:1 ratio of room temperature water and white vinegar. Add a bit of lemon juice to help with the strong vinegar smell. Place the wooden spoons in the water, leaving the handles out. Soak for about 15 minutes. Rinse the spoons, then wash well in hot, soapy water. Lay them out to air dry.
This is the method that I use when I really feel like they need a good deep cleaning. Soaking wooden spoons isn’t recommended for regular practice, but a few cleanings like this haven’t caused mine to crack. You can always soak them for less time–5 minutes or so–if you don’t want to risk it.
Method 2: CLEANING WOODEN SPOONS
Baking soda! It’s one of the very best items to always have on hand, and can be used for so many cleaning and deodorizing purposes. It’s especially helpful when you’re trying to remove stains and odors from your wooden spoons.
Make a paste out of lemon juice and baking soda, and rub it into each spoon. Let sit for a 5-10 minutes, then rinse well, wash, and air dry.
Can you oil wooden spoons?
Oiling wooden spoons has been recommended by many kitchen and cleaning experts. It can help prevent the wood from splitting or cracking and to last longer. It’s important to note that you can’t use just any oil. It must be food safe, and definitely not one that can go rancid. Mineral oil is a top choice. I love this “Spoon Butter” recipe, and can’t wait to try it!
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