JK Adams

How to Care for Wooden Cooking Tools: Spoons, Cutting Boards, and More | Eater

"A family-owned Vermont workshop that specializes in handcrafted wooden kitchenware explains that multi-piece cutting boards (made of glued staves) require more maintenance than one-piece spoons and spatulas because wood expands and contracts with humidity. For conditioning they recommend food-safe mineral oil (an odorless petroleum distillate) as a cost-effective option and, for their line, a blend of coconut oil, beeswax, and carnauba wax; apply oil with a microfiber rag and follow with a wax to seal in moisture. Cleaning should be done by hand with warm soapy water and the tool dried immediately — never use the dishwasher, which can splinter and warp wood. Oil cutting boards at least once a month; for spoons and spatulas, judge conditioning by feel and appearance (if the fibers look or feel dry, it’s time to oil). Avoid oiling rolling pins — wax alone keeps them nonstick. With proper, regular care these pieces can become long-lasting heirlooms." - Kat Thompson