Sanitization of Wooden Cutting Boards Naturally

In a past blog, we discussed some of the cleaning techniques and considerations you’ll want to keep in mind when purchasing and using a cutting board. These are specific to wood cutting boards. Some of the best cutting board designs are found with Carolina Wood Designs, and this certainly can be attractive, but be sure not to forget about the practical matters when it comes to food safety and cutting board safety. In this blog, we’ll continue that safety discussion and further your cutting board education.

Before you use a new wooden cutting board, you should oil it using food grade mineral oil. Take a soft cloth and rub it into the board generously, and then let it stand to soak in for about 5 minutes. The board will absorb much of the oil. Keep applying the oil and letting it dry/absorb into the wood until the oil does not absorb in any further. This will prevent bacteria from absorbing into the wood as easily, and will prolong the cutting board’s life by many years. You should re-oil your board whenever it appears light and worn in color.
    

  Because wood is so absorbent, be sure to never submerge the cutting board in water for longer than a few moments. Don’t run it through the dish washer either, because the cutting board designs are relatively delicate. Use a rough sponge, scrub with hot water, and rinse clean. Dry immediately with a paper towel. You can sanitize the board naturally, using a 5:1 water/white vinegar solution. Let it sit, and then apply another oil coat to seal in the sanitation.

The benefits of wooden cutting boards are many, for beauty’s sake, and for nature’s sake. You aren’t letting your food come in contact with unnatural chemicals that plastic is made of and you use natural cleaners to care for the wood.