How to Clean a Cutting Board Safely Without Bleach

Keeping your cutting board clean is essential for food safety. However, many traditional methods, such as bleach or boiling water, can be damaging to natural wood cutting boards or overly harsh for plastic boards. Here are some effective and safe alternatives for cleaning your cutting board, ensuring it remains healthy and safe for cooking.

Using Coarse Salt or Baking Soda

One of the simplest and most effective ways to clean a cutting board is by using coarse salt or baking soda. These abrasives can help remove contaminants without the need for harsh chemicals.

Rub the board with coarse salt or baking soda. Let it sit for a few minutes. Wipe off the salt or baking soda. Rinse the board thoroughly. If necessary, re-season the board after rinsing by applying a thin coat of mineral oil and letting it sit overnight.

This method works well for both wooden and plastic cutting boards, making it a versatile and simple solution.

For Neglected Cutting Boards

If your cutting board needs special attention, you may need a more intense cleaning method. However, avoid using chlorine bleach or boiling water, as these can damage the board or make it unsuitable for further use.

Method 1: Baking Soda, Soap, and Hydrogen Peroxide

This method cleans the board effectively while minimizing damage to the wood:

Scrub the board with baking soda and soap until all contaminants are removed. Rinse the board. Wash the board again with soap and rinse it well. Let the board dry. For stubborn stains, you can treat the surfaces with hydrogen peroxide for 5-10 minutes. This chemical reaction can help remove tough contaminants. Rinse the board again and let it dry thoroughly.

Hydrogen peroxide is nontoxic once it dries, but it can be harsh on the skin, so be cautious.

Method 2: Lemon and Salt Scrub

A natural and effective scrubbing method involves using a lemon and salt:

Cut a lemon in half and sprinkle it with coarse salt. Use the salt- and lemon-scrubbed half to scrub the board. Rinse the board thoroughly after scrubbing.

For best results, perform this scrubbing method once a week to maintain the hygiene of your cutting board.

Merle Lawrence’s Expert Advice

For those with natural wood cutting boards, using bleach can be too harsh. According to Merle Lawrence, a capful of bleach per gallon of water is sufficient for sanitizing cutting boards. However, always wear gloves when handling bleach, as it can be harmful to your skin.

Plastic cutting boards can be safely cleaned in the dishwasher. Use the sanitize setting to kill bacteria and viruses. For wooden cutting boards, avoid soaking them in water, as it can warp or damage the wood. Use basic soap and water, spray it on, and let it air dry. Do not put wooden cutting boards in the dishwasher, as the heat can expand the fibers and retain soapy water within the wood.

For optimal safety and longevity, always avoid using ceramic, metal, or marble cutting boards, as these materials can damage your knives. Stick with wood or plastic for a safer and more durable cooking experience.

Key Takeaways:

Use coarse salt or baking soda for daily cleaning. For tougher stains, try hydrogen peroxide or a lemon and salt scrub. Discard plastic cutting boards if they become too pitted with knife grooves. Always avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or boiling water on wooden cutting boards.

By following these tips, you can ensure your cutting board remains clean and safe for all your culinary needs. Remember, proper care and cleaning are key to keeping your board in good condition for years to come.