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Wooden cutting boards are a kitchen essential, providing a durable and attractive surface for food preparation. However, they require proper care to maintain their quality and prevent bacteria buildup. Cleaning and conditioning your wooden boards regularly will ensure they remain safe to use and last for years. Follow these simple steps to keep your wooden boards in top shape.
Wet the Board
Begin by wetting the entire surface of your wooden board. This step helps loosen food particles and prevents soap from penetrating too deeply into the wood. Make sure to wet both sides of the board evenly to avoid causing it to warp or crack.
Apply Dish Soap
Use L'AVANT Collective's natural dish soap. Squeeze a small amount of soap onto the surface of the board. This plant-based soap is gentle on wood but effective at cutting through grease and grime without leaving behind harmful residues.
Scrub Both Sides
Using a gentle scrub brush or a soft sponge, scrub the entire surface of the board. Be thorough and clean both sides, even if only one side was used for food preparation. Scrubbing both sides helps prevent the board from absorbing too much moisture on one side, which can cause it to become unbalanced.
Rinse the Board
Rinse the board under warm running water, ensuring all soap residue is washed away. Be careful not to soak the board, as prolonged exposure to water can damage the wood. Rinse both sides to maintain even moisture levels.
Dry the Board
Pat the board dry with a clean towel to remove excess water. After towel drying, stand the board upright or place it on a drying rack to allow it to air dry completely. This step is crucial in preventing moisture from seeping into the wood, which can lead to cracking or warping over time.
Exfoliate with Coarse Salt
Sprinkle a generous amount of coarse salt, such as kosher salt, over the surface of the board. The salt acts as a natural abrasive, helping to lift any remaining residue and deodorize the wood. This step is especially effective for removing stains or odors from potent foods like garlic or onions.
Squeeze on Lemon Juice
Cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice directly onto the salted surface of the board. The natural acidity of the lemon helps break down stubborn food particles and has antibacterial properties that help disinfect the surface.
Use the Lemon as a Scrubber
Use the cut side of the lemon to scrub the entire board, working in circular motions. The combination of the coarse salt and the lemon’s acidity provides a deep clean while the natural oils in the lemon condition the wood. Be sure to scrub both sides to ensure an even clean.
Rinse and Dry Again
Rinse the board under warm water to remove the salt and lemon residue. Use a clean towel to pat the board dry and then allow it to air dry completely. Ensure the board is thoroughly dried before moving on to the conditioning step.
Condition with Food-Grade Mineral Oil
Once the board is completely dry, apply a generous layer of food-grade mineral oil to the surface. Use a soft cloth or paper towel to spread the oil evenly over the entire board, including the edges. Allow the oil to soak into the wood for a few hours or overnight to deeply nourish and hydrate the wood fibers.
Wipe Off Excess Oil
After the oil has been absorbed, use a clean, dry cloth to wipe off any excess oil. The board should have a slight sheen but should not feel greasy to the touch. If it does, continue buffing the surface until the oil is fully absorbed and the board feels smooth.
Proper care and regular conditioning of your wooden boards will help them maintain their appearance and durability over time. Using eco-friendly products like L'AVANT Collective’s Natural Dish Soap ensures your boards are cleaned effectively without the risk of chemical residues or damage to the wood. By following these steps, you’ll keep your wooden boards in top condition, making them a long-lasting and beautiful addition to your kitchen.
