There is a cleaning mistake that has become popular on social media and that may be harming wooden boards and wooden spoons instead of disinfecting them. This involves the practice of soaking these utensils in boiling water for several minutes, with the aim of removing accumulated dirt and deeply disinfecting the wood. The British consumer advocacy organization Which? warned that this practice can damage the wood and promote the retention of moisture and food scraps, increasing the risk of contamination.
Many people believe that the dark water left after soaking a wooden board in very hot water is a sign that the dirt has been removed. However, Which? explains that this coloration is mainly due to the release of natural pigments and tannins present in the wood itself, not necessarily meaning the board is cleaner. In other words, this method is not effective for the intended cleaning.
Prolonged exposure to very hot water can cause deformations and cracks in the wood. These small cracks become particularly problematic because they retain moisture and food particles in areas that are difficult to clean, creating an environment conducive to the proliferation of bacteria and mold. Which? warns that this habit can therefore increase the risk of contamination of utensils used daily in the kitchen.
The recommendation is to wash the board after each use with hot water, dish soap and a suitable brush or sponge, without leaving it submerged for long periods, and it should be allowed to dry completely before being stored. For more stubborn stains and odors, salt and lemon or specific products for wood surfaces in contact with food can be used. Boards very marked by knives can benefit from light sanding and the application of food-grade mineral oil or a specific cutting board product.
