How To Clean Bamboo Cutting Board

Bamboo cutting boards are naturally durable and more resistant to damage compared to other wooden cutting boards. They are also more hygienic to use because they have natural antimicrobial properties and do not absorb liquids easily. They don't require much maintenance as well, but it is worth keeping them in good condition. Learn how to clean bamboo cutting board in this cleaning guide.

Ways to Clean Bamboo Cutting Board

To wash your bamboo cutting board:

• Scrape off food wastes first using a spatula.
  
• Wash its surface with water and mild dishwashing soap. Avoid exposing the cutting board to water for too long.
  
• After a quick wash with soap, rinse it with running water, preferably hot water.
  
• Dry it with your kitchen towel.
  
• Let your bamboo cutting board dry completely by placing it in an upright position for an hour or two.  

A bamboo cutting board is not dishwasher-safe. The heat cycle will damage the board's protective coating, and it may cause warping. It is not ideal for soaking it in water either because it will be more susceptible to deformation when it absorbs more water.

Removing Stains

Washing the bamboo cutting board right after you have used it will prevent staining. It is unnecessary to use chemical cleaning agents to get rid of the food stains on your board. Instead, use baking soda or coarse salt on it.

When using coarse salt, you need to cover the stained surface with the salt and use a sponge to rub the affected surface area. You can add more salt as needed. When you opt to use baking soda, sprinkle it on the stained area and rub using a wet cloth. It will form a paste-like substance, and you have to let the paste sit on for a while before rinsing with water. Finally, dry your bamboo cutting board using a towel.

Deodorizing the Cutting Board

Deodorizing the cutting board is part of learning how to clean bamboo cutting board. At times, your bamboo cutting board may become smelly, and you need to deodorize or freshen it up by sprinkling salt on it and rubbing a sliced lemon on the board's surface. After rubbing, let it sit for an hour or two, so the salt and lemon stay on the bamboo board and counter the bad odor's cause. Finally, rinse and dry the board with a kitchen towel. Make sure to have it completely dried before storage.

Disinfecting the Cutting Board

Knowing the right ways on how to clean bamboo cutting board is also crucial for health reasons. One advantage of using a bamboo cutting board is that it has natural antibacterial properties. Given that fact, there's still a need for some reinforcement; you need to disinfect your cutting board occasionally. After every contact with raw meat and other raw food, your board needs to be disinfected or sanitized as part of minimizing the risk of food contamination.

Mix white vinegar with water, both with equal amounts. Use a clean cloth soaked in the solution to rub on the board. You can also use baking soda and scrub the board's surface using a sponge. After letting the substance sit for minutes, rinse with water and dry it with a towel.

Avoid using the microwave to disinfect your bamboo cutting board. Too much heat will damage the board or cause warping.

Conditioning Your Bamboo Cutting Board 

After purchasing a bamboo cutting board, you need to condition or seal your untreated and new cutting board with mineral oil before using it for the first time. Using a clean rag to apply the food-grade mineral oil and rub it on the entire cutting board. After coating with oil, never dry it with a towel. It would be best if you leave the oiled cutting board in an upright position for a night to let the oil completely penetrate the board.

Aside from giving a smooth finish, the main purpose of the oil is to create a protective seal that will keep water away and prevent the bamboo board from splitting.

Bamboo Cutting Board Storage Tip

A clean bamboo cutting board must be stored in a cool and dry place with air circulation. It is also best to hang the cutting board in one area of your kitchen away from the stove to avoid extreme heat. Also, avoid placing hot items on the cutting board to avoid causing damage. Storing it in high humidity areas is also not a good idea because it will likely develop molds.

Conclusion

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