How to Care for Wooden Spoons

While kitchen gadgets may come and go, wooden spoons have stood the test of time—and for good reason. Wood naturally boasts more antibacterial properties than synthetic materials. Trees have an inherent ability to ward off bacteria, mold, and infection, and those qualities remain intact even when the wood is turned into a spoon.

Wooden spoons are a classic kitchen tool, and when properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, even these durable spoons can face challenges: staining, crusting, burning, and even breaking.

Luckily, most of these issues can be fixed. Here are five ways to restore or refresh your well-loved (and possibly crusty) wooden spoons:

Five Tips for Reviving Wooden Spoons

1. Clean with Soap

Always hand wash your wooden spoons with water and mild soap, then let them air dry right after use. Regular cleaning helps prolong the life of your spoons. Never place them in the dishwasher.

2. Condition with Oil

It's common for wooden spoons to become dry or even crack. If a spoon cracks, it’s best to toss it, as it can trap food and harbor bacteria. To bring dry spoons back to life, treat them with mineral oil or oils like walnut, tung, or linseed oil. Avoid vegetable or olive oil as they can turn rancid over time.

3. Scrub Away Buildup with Vinegar

Buildup can occur, but it's easily fixable. For crusty spoons, soak them overnight in a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water to loosen the gunk. If that doesn’t do the trick, use a copper or stainless steel scrubber to tackle the stubborn buildup.

4. Eliminate Odors with Lemon or Baking Soda

Wooden spoons often absorb stains, flavors, and odors over time. While most of these will fade, you can easily remove them if the smells persist.

To tackle stubborn odors, scrub the surface with the cut side of a lemon or use a paste made from baking soda and water. Alternatively, sprinkle baking soda on the spoon, squeeze fresh lemon juice over it, and let it sit for a while. Be sure to wash it off with soapy water, then allow it to dry completely.

5. Disinfect with Hydrogen Peroxide

If you're worried about bacteria buildup, you can sanitize your wooden spoons by washing them with soap and water, then sprinkling hydrogen peroxide on them before letting them dry. Just be sure to wash them again before use.

Can Wooden Spoons Go in the Dishwasher?

Wooden spoons should *never* be placed in the dishwasher if you want to keep them in good condition. The high heat and moisture can cause them to warp, crack, or even break. Always hand wash your wooden spoons with warm water and soap, then let them air dry.