When you switch2bamboo for any of your clothing, bedding or household items, it’s common to wonder if they need any extra care.
Being made of, or from, bamboo can have advantages and disadvantages when it comes to cleaning.
So, how do you clean a bamboo cutting board?
(Looking to buy a new bamboo cutting board? Skip to our favourite sellers here)
How do you clean a bamboo cutting board?
Bamboo is a great material for making chopping/cutting boards.
Being grass and not wood means that the structure of the material is very different and withstands water much better than wood does.
This means that it breeds far fewer bacteria than wooden boards because bacteria need moisture to survive and grow.
Bamboo is also much stronger than wood meaning it can withstand chopping and slicing along the surface a lot more than traditional wooden chopping boards.
Daily cleaning
Use a mix of warm water and dish soap to rinse and wipe your bamboo cutting board keeping it clean and hygienic.
Deep cleaning
Add 50ml of white vinegar (a cup) with a litre (a quart) of warm water for a deeper, antibacterial clean.
Alternatively, mix one teaspoon of bleach with one litre (a quart) of water for a suitable disinfecting cleaning solution.
Restoration cleaning
Dampen a soft cloth with either lukewarm water on its own or a cleaning solution as mentioned above.
Have a bowl of normal table salt and dab your damp cloth into the bowl.
Use the cloth to really lift the grime taking advantage of the abrasive action of the salt.
Can you wash a bamboo cutting board in a dishwasher?
No. Bamboo is incredibly moisture resistant but, just as with a wooden chopping board, you wouldn’t want to soak it for any length of time.
Bamboo wood is made from strips of bamboo and resin, and these strips act like long straws.
So although very water resistant along the length of the bamboo, the ends of the bamboo wood are to be protected to avoid warping or splitting from water damage.
Should you oil a bamboo cutting board?
Yes, you should oil a bamboo cutting board with food-safe mineral oil to keep it from drying out and cracking.
Types of food-safe oil commonly used to finish bamboo cutting boards are:
- Mineral oil: Mineral oil is a popular choice for finishing cutting boards as it is odorless, colorless, and food-safe. It helps to moisturize and protect the bamboo, preventing it from drying out and cracking.
- Coconut oil: Coconut oil is another food-safe option that can be used to finish bamboo cutting boards. It has natural antimicrobial properties, which can help inhibit the growth of bacteria on the surface of the board.
- Beeswax: Beeswax is a natural wax derived from bees and is often used in combination with other oils to create a protective finish for bamboo cutting boards. It provides a barrier against moisture and helps to seal the surface.
- Walnut oil: Walnut oil is a food-safe oil that can be used to finish bamboo cutting boards. It is rich in antioxidants and dries relatively quickly, leaving a smooth and durable finish.
- Food-grade linseed oil: Linseed oil, specifically the food-grade variety, is another option for finishing bamboo cutting boards. It is derived from flaxseed and provides a protective coating that enhances the natural beauty of the bamboo.
When applying any of these oils to a bamboo cutting board, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and apply multiple coats to ensure thorough coverage and protection.
5 ways to get stains out of a bamboo chopping board
1. Use a mixture of baking soda and water.
2. Use a mild detergent and water.
3. Use white vinegar and water.
4. Use lemon juice and salt.
5. Rub the stain with a paste of baking soda and water, then rinse with warm water.
The best cleaning solutions for bamboo furniture, floors and household items.
- Household dish soap and lukewarm water make a perfectly suitable solution to wipe down floors, furniture and utensils. Just don’t leave it to soak in and never use the dishwasher for utensils, cutlery or bamboo straws.
- For a deeper clean, mix 50ml of white vinegar (a cup) with a litre (a quart) of warm water and use as above.
- Mix 1 teaspoon of bleach with 1 litre (a quart) of water for a suitable disinfecting cleaning solution for items such as cutting boards or bathroom flooring.
Using a soft-bristled brush in addition to the solutions listed above will not damage your bamboo items and may improve the result, especially on furniture which has been neglected for a while.
For truly ingrained dirt on bamboo furniture try dabbing some normal table salt onto your damp cleaning cloth (along with one of the solutions above) and use the extra abrasive quality of the salt to really lift the grime out.
Looking to switch2bamboo to replace your cutting boards?
Joseph & Joseph Index Bamboo
Designed to reduce cross-contamination of different food types, Index Bamboo comprises three food-specific chopping boards with a sturdy metal storage stand.
Zulay Three-piece board set
This 3-Piece Bamboo Cutting Board is the culinary workhorse that could be an asset in both your kitchen and dining area.
Made of premium quality pre-oiled flat-grain bamboo that can stand up to sharp cuts, stubborn stains, and strong odors.
Perfect for different types of cooking preparation whether it’s for a quick meal or a large feast.
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