New Delhi

If not dried well, wood can develop mold or musty smells. Proper care also enhances the utensil’s lifespan.

Steel, silicone, or wooden — the kitchen utensils you use can impact the taste of your food and your health in the long run. And like every other nook and cranny of your kitchen that needs a solid wipedown, cleaning your wooden utensils is also necessary.

Celebrity chef Ananya Banerjee told that cleaning wooden utensils regularly prevents bacterial growth and avoids mold and odor. “Wood can trap food particles and moisture, making it a breeding ground for bacteria. If not dried well, wood can develop mold or musty smells. Proper care also enhances the utensil’s lifespan since it keeps the wood from cracking, warping, or rotting,” she explained. Old grease or flavours can linger, affecting the taste and hygiene of your meals. Cleaning them keeps food safe and flavorful, she added.

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Tips to keep your wooden utensils clean:

1. Rinse wooden utensils with warm water and mild dish soap: Right after use, use a sponge or brush to scrub off any food particles. Avoid soaking them in water or putting them in the dishwasher—this causes cracking and warping.

2. Disinfect naturally with vinegar or lemon: Wipe with white vinegar or rub with half a lemon sprinkled with coarse salt to disinfect and deodorize naturally.

3. Dry thoroughly and quickly: Wipe them dry immediately with a towel and let them air-dry entirely in an upright position.

4. Deep clean occasionally with baking soda paste: Make a paste with baking soda and water, scrub the utensil, then rinse and dry. Baking soda is mildly abrasive and great for removing stains and odors.

5. Oil regularly to seal and protect: Rub food-grade mineral oil, coconut oil, or beeswax into the wood every few weeks. This conditions the wood, prevents drying and cracking, and creates a barrier against moisture and bacteria.