How to Clean a Wood Cutting Board

Marie Overton

Feb 62 min read

Updated: Feb 17

I love using wood cutting boards but some of the items I cut leave stains and residue. Cleaning them properly is easy if you know what to do.

How to Clean wood cutting boards

A person wearing a "Marie" apron spreads salt on a wooden cutting board in a kitchen. Lemons and a jar are on the countertop.

Step 1: Salt

The first step in cleaning my cutting boards is to pour a layer of salt over the surface. Salt works so well because it is abrasive, which helps to break up the small particles stuck to the board. It is also absorbent, which helps it to draw in any of the stains that have been released. In addition, it is antibacterial since the bacteria can't survive in high salt conditions.

Half a lemon and a teaspoon of salt on a wooden board. The lemon is vibrant yellow, and the salt is in a small metal scoop.

Step 2: Lemon

Preparing the lemon is so easy, I just cut it in half with a paring knife.

Lemons are good for removing stains and killing bacteria because of their citric acid. This acid is a natural disinfectant and also cuts through grease well.

Hands scrubbing a wooden cutting board with half a lemon and salt on a speckled countertop. A jar of salt is nearby.

Step 3: Scrubbing

I use one-half of the lemon to scrub the salt layer across the board. I like to start with a circular clockwise direction and then reverse it halfway through. The key is that I want the salt to go in each little crevice that has been created from the knife strokes. I also spend extra time on the well-used and stained portions of the board. If I run out of juice in my lemon, I just use the other half.

Hands using a scraper to gather salt on a striped wooden cutting board. A jar is nearby on a speckled countertop.

Step 4: scrapping

Next, I use a flat blade or spatula to scrape the surface of the board. This removes any loose salt and scrapes off any loose bit of wood.

Step 5: Wash

I then use hot water to wash off any leftover residue of salt so it doesn't flavor the next item I cut on it.

Step 6: Dry

Once the board is washed, I ensure it is completely dry before storing it. Often, I will allow it to dry overnight and then oil it the next day.

Wooden dishes with a jar and spoon on cutting boards, set on burlap. Earthy tones create a rustic kitchen ambiance.

Regular cleaning and maintenance of your wood cutting boards is essential for ensuring their longevity and performance. By following these simple steps, you can keep your cutting boards in top condition and enjoy using them for years to come.