Grandma's secret for preserving wooden spoons and ridding your kitchen of smells, cracks and hidden dirt

Wood is porous: it absorbs water, grease, smells and even food residue. Without proper maintenance, the spoon can

• Crack and splinter
• Get invisible mold
• Change the taste of recipes
• Become a haven for bacteria

1. No dishwasher

• Heat and humidity damage wood. Always wash by hand with warm water and neutral soap.

2. Dry immediately

• Use a clean cloth immediately after washing. Do not leave to dry on its own in the drainer.

3. Moisturize with oil

• Apply a thin layer of mineral oil or coconut oil every two or three weeks. This prevents cracking and prolongs the service life.

4. Disinfect naturally

• To remove odors or residues, soak the spoon for 5 minutes in white vinegar with hot water. Then wash as normal.

5. Avoid extreme uses

• Avoid using it in very acidic recipes or to scrape pans with force - this accelerates the wear of the wood.

6. When is it time to replace?

• If mold, deep cracks or persistent smells appear, the spoon should be discarded.

• Stains or a strong smell? Scrub with bicarbonate and lemon
• Rough surface? Sand lightly with fine sandpaper
• Always finish with oil and allow to dry well before using again

Preserving wooden spoons is a gesture of care for your kitchen. If you learn to take care of the wood, you'll preserve the taste, hygiene and history behind each preparation.