As the festivities draw to a close, many of us might be looking to give our cooking skills a little rest. However, before retiring your apron for the season, it’s a good idea to give frequently used kitchen items like wooden chopping boards a thorough clean.
Contrary to common belief, wooden chopping boards can be just as hygienic as their plastic counterparts. This is thanks to the wood’s natural antibacterial qualities, which stem from its grain structure and can help suppress bacteria.
Even so, it is important to ensure that they are cleaned properly in between uses to ensure that unwanted germs and bacteria have no chance of taking hold. While a swift scrub with warm soapy water might suffice to rid of debris, you’ll need something more robust for persistent stains and smells.
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A recent TikTok video offers an easy two-minute hack to restore chopping boards to pristine condition.
Cleanipedia_UK, reaching an audience of over 50,000 followers, reveals: “Hidden bacteria and odours can linger, but a natural clean with baking soda and lemon can refresh and sanitise your board,” reports Leicestershire Live.
The account suggests a simple concoction using just baking soda and lemon. “Sprinkle bicarbonate soda over the surface then scrub it with half a lemon. The soda lifts the stains whilst the lemon tackles the bacteria and smells amazing,” they elaborate in the video.
Simply rinse with warm water and dry. You’re then set with a board that’s spotless and perfect for whatever dish you’re whipping up next.
Followers appear enthusiastic about testing this method, with @cleanwithjen commenting: “Love this, we have a wooden chopping board and it always looks minging so will neeed to try this.”
Additionally, @cleanlivingwithBecs chimed in, saying: “This is now the top of my to do list.”