Wood Cutting Board Care: The Common Mistake Everyone Makes

In recent years, many people have turned away from plastic cutting boards due to concerns over microplastics. For many home cooks, wood cutting boards are the ideal alternative. As a natural material, wood doesn't pose the same health concerns that plastic does. However, there is one unfortunate downside to wooden cutting boards — the care that it takes to clean and maintain them. That's why those who make the switch from a plastic cutting board to a wooden one often make the same mistake: Not realizing you shouldn't put your wooden cutting board in the dishwasher. While plastic boards are usually sturdy enough to withstand the intense heat and moisture of a dishwasher, wooden boards are easily damaged under such conditions.

Wood cutting boards aren't just popular due to concerns about microplastics. They are also incredibly durable when properly maintained. Wood is softer than plastic, stone, or glass, so it's gentler on your knives, too. It doesn't harbor bacteria as readily as plastic does either, making it a more hygienic option. Additionally, wooden cutting boards are more eco-friendly because they can easily be reused or recycled. The key to getting the most out of your wood cutting board, though, is learning the right way to clean and maintain it.

While dishwashers can certainly make our lives easier, they aren't the best option for cleaning some of our favorite cooking tools. Among the kitchen items that you shouldn't put in the dishwasher, wooden cutting boards and utensils are at the top of the list. The main issue with the dishwasher is its excessive heat. The water is typically heated to 130 to 140 degrees, and hot air is circulated around the items inside after washing, to dry them.

Exposing your wood cutting board to this heat can cause significant damage. The heat can cause the board to warp, so it no longer lies flat on your counter or table. It can also cause the board to crack, creating an uneven surface that makes chopping and slicing very difficult. In fact, with repeated cleaning in the dishwasher, your board could crack completely in half.

Additionally, wood cutting boards are exposed to prolonged moisture inside a dishwasher, which is not ideal. Wood is a highly absorbent material, which is why you should never soak your cutting board in the sink during cleaning. The conditions inside the dishwasher are similar to those of soaking, allowing your cutting board to absorb excess moisture and potentially begin to warp and split. This means that the double whammy of intense heat and moisture is certainly a recipe for disaster.

If the dishwasher is off-limits, it's important to know the best way to clean a wooden cutting board. The good news is that the best method is also the easiest: Plain old soap and water. After each use, wash it with warm, soapy water, using a sponge or a brush to remove any food residue. Don't keep it submerged in water for too long, and be sure to clean both sides of the board. Rinse the wood thoroughly before patting it dry with a clean towel. It's a good idea to place the board in a dish rack to let it sit for a while, ensuring it's completely dry.

After using a wooden cutting board for chicken or other raw meat, you can also sanitize it. Pour a mixture of 1 tablespoon of unscented liquid bleach and one gallon of water, over the surface and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes. Rinse the board with clean water and dry it thoroughly afterward.

To keep your wood cutting board in good condition, you should oil it regularly, too. Oiling the wood ensures that it is well-hydrated to help prevent cracks. Apply a thin layer of food-grade mineral oil or beeswax, and allow it to absorb overnight.