Wooden kitchen utensils, such as spoons, spatulas, and cutting boards, require more thorough cleaning than regular washing to remove bacteria and dirt that can accumulate over time.
Fortunately, there's a simple method to clean and disinfect your wooden utensils using just one ingredient: citric acid.
Cleaning Wooden Utensils with Citric Acid
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean your wooden kitchen utensils with citric acid:
Boil Water: Start by boiling water in a large saucepan or pot. Make sure there's enough water to fully submerge your wooden utensils.
Add Citric Acid: Once the water is boiling, add a tablespoon of citric acid. Citric acid is a natural cleaner that not only cleans the surface but also penetrates the wood, helping to remove bacteria hidden deep within the grain.
Cook the Utensils: Place your wooden utensils into the boiling water with citric acid. Let them soak for about 10 minutes to kill bacteria and remove stubborn stains or odors.
Remove and Dry: After 10 minutes, carefully remove the utensils from the boiling water and let them cool. Once cooled, dry them thoroughly with a clean towel. Your kitchen utensils should now be clean and free of bacteria.
To give your wooden utensils a fresh lemon scent, you can add a bit of fresh lemon juice to the boiling water along with the citric acid. This provides a pleasant aroma while enhancing the cleaning power.
Why Citric Acid Works
Citric acid is a natural compound found in citrus fruits like lemons and limes. It has antibacterial properties and is effective at breaking down grime and killing bacteria. Because it can penetrate the wood's structure, it's an excellent choice for cleaning wooden kitchen utensils.
Tips for Maintaining Wooden Utensils
To keep your wooden utensils in good condition, consider these additional tips:
Avoid Prolonged Soaking: Don't leave wooden utensils submerged in water for long periods, as this can cause the wood to swell and crack.
Regular Cleaning: Clean wooden utensils regularly with warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely after each use.
Oil the Wood: To prevent cracking and keep the wood hydrated, periodically apply food-grade mineral oil or beeswax to your wooden utensils.
With these simple steps, you can ensure your wooden kitchen utensils remain clean and safe to use, enhancing the longevity and hygiene of your kitchenware.
