Wooden spoons are a staple in almost every kitchen. They’re great for stirring soup, mixing cookie dough, or flipping scrambled eggs. They don’t scratch your pots, they don’t get hot like metal utensils, and they just feel right in your hand.
But cleaning wooden spoons? That’s where a lot of people get it wrong. I’ve been using the same set of wooden spoons for years, and with the right care, they still look and work great. In this guide, I’ll share how I clean and take care of my wooden spoons so they last longer and stay safe to use.
Why You Should Clean Wooden Spoons Properly
Wood is different from metal or plastic. It’s natural and porous, which means it can soak up liquids, oils, and food smells. If you don’t clean it right, it can hold on to those things—and nobody wants a spoon that smells like last week’s garlic when you’re making oatmeal.
Also, washing wooden spoons the wrong way can lead to cracking, splitting, or even mold. So, learning how to clean them the right way is super important.
Step-by-Step to Clean Wooden Spoons
Here’s how I clean my wooden spoons after every use:
1. Rinse Right Away
As soon as I’m done using the spoon, I rinse it under warm water. Don’t let food dry and stick to it—cleaning is much harder when stuff is dried on.
If you’re in the middle of cooking, at least give it a quick rinse between tasks. This keeps stains and smells from setting in.
2. Wash by Hand with Mild Soap
I always use a soft sponge, warm water, and a little dish soap. You don’t need a scrubber unless something is stuck on really bad. Gently wash the spoon, focusing on any food spots.
Important: Never put wooden spoons in the dishwasher. The high heat and long soak can warp the wood and cause it to crack.
3. Rinse Thoroughly
Make sure to rinse off all the soap. You don’t want any residue left on the spoon that could affect your food next time.
4. Dry Immediately
Don’t leave wooden spoons in a dish rack to air dry. Instead, wipe them with a dry towel right after washing. Then, stand them upright in a utensil holder or lay them flat in a dry place.
Letting them sit in water or air-dry too long can cause them to swell, split, or grow mold.
Deep Cleaning: Once a Week or So
Every week or two, I give my spoons a deeper clean to keep them fresh.
Method 1: Vinegar Soak
- Mix 1 part white vinegar with 4 parts water.
- Soak the spoon for 5–10 minutes.
- Rinse and dry right away.
This helps kill bacteria and remove any smells.
Method 2: Baking Soda Scrub
- Sprinkle some baking soda on the spoon.
- Add a few drops of water to make a paste.
- Scrub with a sponge or your fingers.
- Rinse and dry.
This is great for getting rid of lingering odors or stains. I use this when my spoon smells like onion or garlic.
Oiling Wooden Spoons: Don’t Skip This
About once a month, I oil my wooden spoons. It keeps the wood from drying out and cracking. Here’s how I do it:
- Use food-safe mineral oil (available in most kitchen stores).
- Rub a small amount all over the spoon with a clean cloth or paper towel.
- Let it sit for a few hours or overnight.
- Wipe off any extra oil with a clean towel.
This makes a huge difference. The wood stays smooth, doesn’t splinter, and lasts much longer.
What Not to Do with Wooden Spoons
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- No dishwasher: Like I said earlier, the heat and water can ruin the wood.
- Don’t soak too long: A quick rinse is fine, but leaving them in water for hours is a no-go.
- Avoid bleach or strong chemicals: They can damage the wood and leave behind unsafe residue.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning wooden spoons isn’t complicated—it just takes a little care. With regular washing, the right drying, and some occasional oiling, your spoons will last for years. Mine have seen a lot of meals, from spaghetti nights to holiday baking, and they’re still going strong.
If you’ve been tossing your wooden spoons in the dishwasher or leaving them in the sink overnight, don’t worry. Just start using these tips and you’ll see the difference in no time.
FAQs
1. Can you wash wooden spoons in the dishwasher?
No. The dishwasher’s heat and moisture can warp or crack wooden spoons.
2. How do I remove smells from wooden spoons?
Try scrubbing with baking soda or soaking in a vinegar-water mix for 5–10 minutes.
3. How often should I oil my wooden spoons?
Once a month is a good rule, or anytime they look dry or rough.
4. Can I use olive oil to treat wooden spoons?
It’s better to use mineral oil. Olive oil can go rancid over time.
5. What if my wooden spoon cracks?
If the crack is deep or goes all the way through, it’s best to replace it to avoid bacteria buildup.