Clean and fragrant wooden cutting boards: the simple and green guide

Wood, unlike plastic, is not a waterproof material. Its surface can easily absorb:

• Liquids and juices from meat or fruit
• Oily or sticky residues
• Strong odors, such as those of onion, garlic or fish
• Harmful microorganisms and bacteria

A study published by the University of California has shown that, if not treated properly, wooden cutting boards can retain bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella in micro-cracks in the material (source: UC Davis Food Safety). Hence the importance of a regular, deep cleaning routine, yet one that is gentle on the material.

This method is simple, quick and extremely effective. The salt acts as a natural abrasive, while the lemon, thanks to citric acid, disinfects and deodorizes. Not only that, the scent it leaves in the kitchen is most pleasant.

What you need:

• 1 fresh lemon
• Coarse salt (not iodized)

How to do it:

• Sprinkle coarse salt evenly over the surface of the cutting board.
• Cut the lemon in half and rub one lemon half vigorously over the salt-sprinkled surface.
• Insist on the most used or stained areas: the salt will remove scale, while the lemon will sanitize deep down.
• Leave for a few minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.
• Dry the cutting board thoroughly with a clean cloth and let it air dry vertically to avoid stagnation.

This method is also recommended by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) website for its effectiveness in removing bacteria from porous surfaces

Keeping a wooden cutting board clean is simple, inexpensive and sustainable with just a few natural ingredients. In an age of increasing talk about sustainability and reduction of chemical cleaners, this method is a conscious and smart choice. Best of all...it really works!