Knowing how to clean a cutting board properly keeps bacteria, stains, and odors out of your food prep. Here is the right method for wood, plastic, and bamboo boards.
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How to Clean a Wooden Cutting Board
- Wash with hot water and mild dish soap right after use.
- Scrub the surface and the grooves with a brush or sponge.
- For stains and odors, sprinkle coarse salt, rub with half a lemon, and rinse.
- Dry upright with a towel. Never soak the board or put it in the dishwasher.
- Once a month, rub on food-grade mineral oil to prevent drying and cracking.
How to Clean a Plastic Cutting Board
Most plastic boards are dishwasher safe, which makes cleaning easy. For hand washing, scrub with hot soapy water. To sanitize, use a solution of about 1 tablespoon of unscented bleach per gallon of water (about 4 liters), let it sit a few minutes, then rinse well.
How to Clean a Bamboo Cutting Board
Treat bamboo like wood: wash by hand, dry quickly, and oil occasionally. It resists moisture a little better than many woods but can still crack if soaked.
Tips to Keep Cutting Boards Safe
- Use separate boards for raw meat and for vegetables or ready-to-eat food.
- Wash the board before switching from one food type to another.
- Replace boards with deep grooves that are hard to clean.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use vinegar to sanitize a cutting board?
Diluted white vinegar can help with odors and light cleaning. Hot soapy water is still the most important step.
How often should I oil a wooden cutting board?
Roughly once a month, or whenever the wood looks dry and pale.
Can I use bleach on a wooden board?
It is not recommended. Bleach can dry out and damage wood. Use soap, salt, and lemon instead.
See more kitchen cleaning guides.
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