Here's How To Clean Your Wooden Kitchen Equipments To Begin The New Year Anew

Wooden spoons and chopping boards are among the most frequently used pieces of equipment in everyone’s kitchen. They look good, impart flavour and are used on a daily basis. In fact, wooden chopping boards take on a dual role – helping you cut vegetables and meats in everyday cooking and acting as a charcuterie board or serving platter on those special occasions.

But they also absorb every curry, chutney, and tadka you cook throughout the year. Giving them a proper clean-up as part of your New Year routine is a simple way to reset your kitchen for a fresher, safer and tastier start.

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Why regular cleaning matters

Wood is porous, which means it can soak up juices from raw meat, vegetables, and even soap

when you wash it. Over time, this trapped moisture and food residue can harbour bacteria and odours.

Cleaning them periodically reduces the risk of cross-contamination, keeps the flavours pure, and extends the life of your favourite spoons and boards. Making this a New Year ritual symbolically clears out old grime and habits, setting the tone for more mindful, hygienic cooking in 2026.

How to clean wooden spoons

• Wash promptly by hand: Rinse the spoons under warm water as soon as you’re done using it. Use a mild dish soap and a soft sponge or brush, scrubbing away any stuck-on bits. Avoid soaking it in water for long periods, as this can lead to cracks and warping.
• Deep clean occasionally: For stubborn stains or smells, boil the spoons in a large vessel for a few minutes. You will begin to see oils and dirt being released from the spoons. Once you are satisfied, rinse the spoons well and pat them dry.
• Dry thoroughly: Stand the spoon upright in a utensil holder or lay it flat in a well-ventilated area. Never leave it on a wet countertop or in a closed drawer while damp.

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How to clean wooden chopping boards

• Daily clean: After each use, scrape off food debris, then wash the board with warm water and mild dish soap. Use a dedicated brush or sponge. Rinse and dry immediately with a clean cloth.
• Disinfect naturally: Once in a while, especially after cutting meat or fish, sprinkle coarse salt or baking soda on the board and scrub with half a lemon. This helps lift stains, deodorise, and offers light antibacterial action.
• Monthly refresh: As a New Year (and monthly) ritual, oil your board with food-grade mineral oil or coconut oil. Rub a thin layer over the surface, let it soak in, then wipe off excess. This prevents drying and cracking and makes the board less absorbent in future.