How Do You Clean and Maintain a Wooden Cutting Board?
Sep 27, 2026
Clean a wooden cutting board promptly after use, rinse it well and let it dry thoroughly.
1. Wash with hot, soapy water
Remove food residue soon after use rather than letting it dry into the surface.
2. Rinse thoroughly
Remove soap and loosened residue with clean water.
3. Dry with airflow
Pat dry, then stand or position the board so both sides can release moisture.
4. Do not soak it
Long immersion can encourage swelling, warping, joint failure or cracking.
5. Sanitize when appropriate
After raw meat, poultry or seafood, use a food-safe sanitizing method when needed and follow current food-safety guidance.
6. Condition when the board needs it
Use only a food-safe product appropriate to the board and follow the maker’s care instructions.
7. Resurface or replace damaged boards
Deep grooves, cracks or damage that cannot be cleaned properly are signs that the surface needs attention.
See Are Wooden Cutting Boards Hygienic?.
Continue with Best Cutting Boards for Japanese Knives.
