How to Clean and Care for Wooden and Bamboo Utensils

Wooden and bamboo utensils are not only beautiful, but they also make excellent tools in the kitchen. They’re durable, long-lasting and add a touch of elegance to cooking. But like most things, if you don’t take proper care of these cooking utensils, they can become dull, warp or even crack. Luckily, wood and bamboo utensils are easy to care for and when taken care of properly, they can last you a lifetime.  

Can I Put My Wooden Utensils in the Dishwasher?  

The short answer is no. When you put your wooden or bamboo utensils in the dishwasher, you’re exposing them to high temperatures and a lot of water. Water and wood don’t always get along. When wood is exposed to too much water for too long, the wood can swell and warp which can lead to cracking. 

Some bamboo cooking utensils, like our 5-Pc. Bamboo Cooking Utensil Set, are dishwasher safe. Since these utensils are made from a single piece of bamboo so they’re safe to put in the dishwasher. Though they are dishwasher safe, you should not use the heated drying cycle on the bamboo utensils and refrain from soaking them. 

How to Clean Your Wooden and Bamboo Utensils 

You will need to handwash wooden and bamboo utensils that are not dishwasher safe. Use warm water and mild dish soap to clean your cooking utensils shortly after you finish cooking. Don’t use anything too abrasive with either of your wooden or bamboo utensils, a washcloth or soft-bristled brush are best to use when cleaning. Metal and plastic scrubbers may leave scratches on the wood or bamboo. 

After you’re done handwashing your cooking utensils, let them air dry. The goal of cleaning your wooden cooking utensils is to limit their exposure to water and high heat. You don’t want to dry out or waterlog your wooden utensils because that’s what leads to damage. So, simply prop up your wooden utensils allowing airflow for an even drying process. This will limit the effects of the wet wood expanding and contracting.  

Handwashing may require a little extra care than putting your wood utensils in the dishwasher, but it’s well worth it. With wood utensils like our Baltique® Marrakesh Collection 7-Piece Cooking Utensil Set, handwashing keeps the vibrant colors bright and looking brand new. 

How to Care for Your Wooden and Bamboo Utensils 

The best way to maintain wood or bamboo utensils is to oil them. Use a food-grade mineral oil when oiling your cooking utensils. Oils like vegetable, olive or avocado are not recommended because they can go rancid, leaving an odor on your kitchen tools.  

Oil is what keeps wood and bamboo utensils looking beautiful and protects them from cracking. The cycle of soaking up water and then drying out is what causes wood or bamboo to crack. Oil repels water, so when you oil your utensils, you’re creating a protective barrier that prevents water from getting into the wood’s pores.  

It’s recommended to oil your wooden and bamboo utensils about once every month and if you live in an arid climate you may need to oil your cooking utensils more often. This is what will keep your wood and bamboo utensils looking great.  

If you accidentally toss your wooden utensils into the dishwasher, don’t fret! Simply oil them afterward and that should revive them.  

Can I Boil My Wooden and Bamboo Utensils?  

It’s become a popular trend on social media to boil your bamboo or wooden cooking utensils. While boiling your kitchen utensils can sanitize them, it also strips the wood and can warp it. So, if you’re feeling the need to boil your utensils, don’t do it too often and oil them afterward. Handwashing your wooden and bamboo utensils with warm water and mild soap is still the best way to clean them. With utensils in our Baltique Collection, such as the Baltique ® Mumbai Collection 7-Piece Cooking Utensils Set we recommend just sticking to handwashing or wiping with a damp cloth to keep their gorgeous color intact. 

Wooden and bamboo utensils take a little extra care, but it’s worth that effort. Bamboo and wood utensils are great for non-stick pans, they won't melt or hold heat and will outlast your plastic ware. Shop our collection of wooden and bamboo utensils for beautiful and versatile tools that will elevate your kitchen and cooking.