How to Clean Your Wooden Chopping Block: A Complete Guide to Maintaining It Naturally

Wooden chopping blocks are a staple in the kitchens of both enthusiasts and professionals. Robust, aesthetically pleasing, and durable, they nevertheless require proper maintenance to maintain all their qualities. Discover in this article how to effectively clean your wooden chopping block, disinfect it naturally, and preserve it for the long term.

Why is it important to maintain your wooden chopping block regularly?

Wood is a living material: it absorbs moisture, odors, and bacteria if not properly cleaned. Regular maintenance helps:

• To ensure the hygiene of the cutting surface

• To extend the life of the log

• To preserve its aesthetic appearance

• To avoid deformations, cracks and encrusted stains

Daily cleaning: the right steps

1. Clean after each use

After cutting meat, vegetables, or fish, wipe the area with a non-abrasive sponge using warm water and a little mild soap. Rinse with clean water and dry immediately with a clean cloth.

2. Dry immediately

Never leave your chopping block soaking or air drying: the wood could warp or split. Quick drying with a dry cloth is essential.

Disinfect your chopping block naturally

Once a week (or after intensive use), it is recommended to disinfect your chopping block with natural products.

➤ White vinegar

Spray white vinegar over the entire surface, leave it on for 10 minutes, then wipe it off. It naturally disinfects and eliminates unpleasant odors.

➤ Baking soda and lemon

Sprinkle baking soda on the chopping block, rub with half a lemon, applying light pressure, then rinse and dry. This duo cleans, deodorizes, and removes stains.

Remove tough stains and odors

If stains persist:

• Rub with a paste made of bicarbonate of soda and a little water

• For strong odors (garlic, onion, fish), rub with coffee grounds or pure lemon juice

Oil your chopping block to protect it

The oil nourishes the wood and forms a natural barrier against moisture. Use:

• Food grade mineral oil (tasteless, odorless)

• Or a suitable vegetable oil (linseed, camellia, coconut, tung, etc.)

➤ Frequency:

1 to 2 times per month depending on usage. Apply with a clean cloth, leave to absorb for several hours (or overnight), then wipe off the excess.

What to absolutely avoid

• The dishwasher: it destroys wood

• Harsh chemicals: They are toxic and unnecessary

• Prolonged soaking in water

• Direct exposure to a heat source (radiator, sun)

In summary: good practices to remember