How to Clean Wooden Spoons and Utensils: The 3 Must-Do Tricks for Perfect Wooden Utensils!

 

How to Clean Wooden Spoons and Utensils: The 3 Must-Do Tricks for Perfect Wooden Utensils!

Wooden spoons and utensils are kitchen classics — durable, beautiful, and perfect for cooking without scratching your pans. But unlike metal or plastic, wood needs special care to stay clean, safe, and long-lasting.

If your wooden spoons are starting to look stained, dry, or even a little funky, don’t toss them out! These 3 essential tricks will help you clean, restore, and protect them like a pro.

---

🧼 Trick #1: Skip the Dishwasher — Always Hand Wash

Never put wooden utensils in the dishwasher. The high heat and moisture can cause the wood to:

• Crack or split

• Warp or lose shape

• Dry out and become rough

✅ How to Hand Wash the Right Way:

• Wash immediately after use with warm water and mild dish soap

• Use a soft sponge or cloth (avoid abrasive scrubbers)

• Rinse well and dry with a towel — don’t let them air-dry soaking wet!

Even soaking in water for too long can cause the wood to swell or split, so keep wash time short.

---

🧽 Trick #2: Deep Clean with Natural Ingredients

Over time, wooden utensils can absorb strong odors (think garlic or onion), become discolored, or start to feel “tacky.” Here’s how to deep clean them safely:

🥄 Use Baking Soda and Lemon:

1. Sprinkle baking soda onto the spoon

2. Rub with half a lemon, using the cut side like a sponge

3. Let sit for 5–10 minutes

4. Rinse thoroughly and dry

This combo cleans, deodorizes, and gently disinfects — all without chemicals.

Optional: Use White Vinegar for Odors

Soak your wooden utensils in a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water for about 15 minutes, then rinse and dry. This helps kill bacteria and remove strong food smells.

---

🪵 Trick #3: Condition the Wood to Prevent Drying and Cracking

Just like cutting boards, wooden spoons and spatulas need moisturizing. If they look dull or feel rough, it’s time to oil them.

🧴 How to Oil Wooden Utensils:

• Use food-safe mineral oil, beeswax-based conditioner, or coconut oil (refined and odorless)

• Rub a small amount into the wood using a clean cloth or paper towel

• Let it soak in for several hours or overnight

• Wipe off any excess

Do this every few weeks or whenever your utensils start looking dry. Oiling helps repel moisture, prevents cracking, and keeps the wood smooth and shiny.

---

⚠️ Bonus Tip: When to Say Goodbye

If your wooden spoon is:

• Cracked or splintering

• Smells bad even after deep cleaning

• Has black spots or mold deep in the grain

…it’s probably time to replace it. Safety and hygiene come first, especially with porous materials like wood.

---

Final Thoughts

Wooden utensils are a joy to cook with — but they deserve a little extra love. With these 3 must-do tricks, you can keep your spoons, spatulas, and stirrers clean, conditioned, and kitchen-ready for years to come.

So the next time you finish a meal, give your trusty wooden spoon the care it deserves. It’s a small habit that makes a big difference in your kitchen.