Naturally Clean: Wood Cutting Board Care

Reader Contribution by Stephanie Nelson
Published on June 1, 2009
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<p>There are many different kinds of cutting boards ranging from plastic to stone or even wood. Each type of cutting board has its benefits and its flaws. Many people prefer chopping herbs and vegetables on wood cutting boards because they love how they feel, they are durable and they do not dull knifes quickly. However, if you use a wood cutting board chances are you have had some difficulties keeping it clean. Plastic cutting boards are easier to wash because they can easily be washed in the dishwasher; the high temperatures in the dishwasher will cause wood cutting boards to crack or, even worse, split.</p>
<p>This <a href=”http://www.marthastewart.com/article/cleaning-wooden-boards?autonomy_kw=cleaning&rsc=header_89″ target=”_blank”>easy scrub</a> from Martha Stewart Living will keep your wood cutting board looking great and most importantly, disinfected.</p>
<p>1. Wash your cutting board with mild soap and rinse with hot water. Make sure your board is completely dry before you begin. Apply a thin layer of coarse salt over the cutting board.</p>
<p>2. Cut a lemon in half and rub it over the salt and board. Continue rubbing for five minutes. This acts as an antibacterial scrub.</p>
<p>3. Once completed run hot water over the board for about 15 seconds to ensure that all of the salt is removed. Dry the board in an upright position.</p>
<p>4. In addition to this, you can apply a <a href=”http://www.andreasrecipes.com/2009/03/23/beeswax-paste-for-cutting-boards-and-butcher-blocks/” target=”_blank”>beeswax coat</a> to the board.</p>
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<p>Bamboo and other wooden utensils are similar to wood cutting boards as they can crack in the dishwasher. Caring for wooden utensils is easy with these tips:<br />
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• Dry the wooden utensils with a cloth, which eliminates excess water that could cause the utensil to swell and eventually crack.<br />
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• Once a month rub the utensil with just a little mineral oil. This will maintain its finish and help with the utensil drying out.</p>
<p>For more information on cleaning your home naturally, visit our blog series <a href=”https://www.motherearthliving.com/naturally-clean.aspx”>Naturally Clean</a>.</p>

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