Caring for your Wooden Spoons

Those well-loved wooden spoons in your kitchen might be showing signs of wear – a little rough, perhaps dry, or sporting a few stubborn stains. But don't worry! You can easily restore them to their former glory. And honestly, it's simpler than you think. One of the best things about wooden utensils (besides their longevity, natural beauty, antibacterial properties, and support for local craftspeople – yes, we're a bit biased!) is their durability. With a little care, they can last for ages. That's why we put together this quick guide, so your spoons can look as good as new!

Washing your wooden spoons 

• • Never put wooden spoons in the dishwasher. The high heat and harsh detergents can cause them to warp, crack, and splinter.
  • Wash them by hand with warm, soapy water immediately after use.
  • Use a mild dish soap.
  • Use the scratchy side of a sponge to help remove stuck on food.

• • Prolonged exposure to water can damage the wood. Wash and dry them promptly.
  • Do not let them sit in a sink full of water.

• • Dry wooden spoons thoroughly with a clean towel.
  • Allow them to air-dry completely before storing them.

Oiling and Restoring

• • Oiling prevents the wood from drying out and cracking.
  • It also helps to repel water and stains.

• • Use food-grade mineral oil, beeswax, or a combination of both.
  • Avoid vegetable or olive oil, as they can become rancid.
  • Here at Boltwoodshop, we use Walrus Oil on our products. It's a combination of coconut and mineral, with beeswax and vitamin E added in the mix. It has NOTHING to do with actual walruses. 

1. 1. Using a fine grit sandpaper, like 220 grit, sand the spoon going with the grain direction. 
   2. Lightly spray or rub the spoon with water, let dry. This raises the wood grain. 
   3. [Once dry] Sand the spoon again, going with the grain direction.
   4. Apply a generous amount of oil to the spoon. Rub it in thoroughly, ensuring all surfaces are coated.
   5. Let the oil soak in for a few hours or overnight (longer the better!). 
   6. Wipe off any excess oil with a clean cloth, and apply some pressure to buff smooth. 

Removing Odors and Stains

• • To remove odors, rub the spoon with a cut lemon half or a paste of baking soda and water.
  • Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse and dry.

• • To help remove buildup, soak the spoon in a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and water.
    

• • For stubborn stains or rough spots, gently sand the area with fine-grit sandpaper.
  • Wash and oil the spoon afterward.

General Care

• • Do not expose wooden spoons to extreme heat or cold.

• • Store wooden spoons in a dry place.

• • Regularly inspect your spoons for cracks or damage.
  • Discard any spoons that are cracked, as they can harbor bacteria.

A few extra thoughts... 

• • Wooden spoons are naturally antibacterial, but proper care is crucial.
  • Oiling is the most important step in maintaining your wooden spoons.
  • By following these guidelines, you can keep your wooden spoons in excellent condition for many years of cooking.
  • When you need more spoons, let us know or check out the shop :)