How to care for wooden kitchen tools: Eco‑friendly tips
Wooden accessories have been a staple in our kitchens for years. They are practical, natural, and incredibly durable. However, proper care is essential to maintain their desirability; otherwise, they can become less appealing, and you might consider replacing them.
4 November 2024 13:04
Spoons, spatulas, and cutting boards have been used for centuries. Wood remains popular due to its unique characteristics despite the advent of modern materials. However, using these accessories demands proper maintenance to ensure they remain beneficial rather than detrimental.
Hard to replace
It's believed that the oldest kitchen utensils were wooden, although many haven't survived due to the material's impermanence. Despite competition from metal, plastic, and silicone, wooden accessories are widely used. They are inexpensive and do not cause allergic reactions, which some plastic utensils do. Furthermore, they are indispensable when using non-stick cookware, as they won't scratch the surface and cause the emission of harmful chemicals.
They are eco-friendly
Wood is an environmentally friendly material that, unlike plastic, decomposes much quicker. Additionally, it complements various kitchen styles, from traditional to modern. The special properties of wood depend on the type of species. Hardwoods like coconut palm, guaiac, beech, oak, ash, pear, acacia, or cherry are the best choices. Utensils made from these species are resistant to damage and exhibit mild bactericidal properties, which is crucial for kitchen accessories that come into contact with food.
Require proper maintenance
Proper care of wooden kitchen tools is essential. Before first use, it's advisable to treat them with olive oil or canola oil to prevent the absorption of strong odours and discoloration. Good maintenance also includes soaking them overnight in apple cider vinegar or rubbing them with lemon. Drying the accessories thoroughly after each wash and avoiding prolonged soaking is important to prevent bacterial growth. Wood should not be washed in dishwashers.
Attention!
Heat and water significantly affect wood, potentially causing dampness and bacterial growth. Water can penetrate deeply into the wood's pores, where harmful microorganisms can thrive.
It's a good idea to disinfect wooden utensils periodically. After washing, sprinkle them with salt and leave them overnight.
