Maintaining a clean and hygienic cutting board is essential for food safety in the kitchen. However, when it comes to cleaning wooden cutting boards, the question arises: Can you safely put them in the dishwasher?
Washing a wooden cutting board in the dishwasher is not advisable, as the intense heat and water can cause it to warp, crack, or become brittle over time. Instead, it’s recommended to handwash these boards with some soap and warm water to maintain their quality and lifespan effectively.
In this article, I will discuss the potential risk and benefits of putting your wooden cutting board in the dishwasher. I will also detail the differences between cutting board materials, the impacts of heat, moisture, and dishwasher detergent on cutting boards, recommended cleaning methods, and answers to frequently asked questions. Let’s cut through this!
Understanding Cutting Board Material Differences
When it comes to cutting boards, the choice of material can significantly impact your kitchen experience and the durability of the board. Here’s a quick comparison:
Wood
Made from hardwoods like maple, walnut, or cherry, wooden cutting boards are durable and kind to knife edges. They have self-healing properties and can absorb certain bacteria, then later kill them.
Bamboo
While similar to wood, it’s harder and denser, which can be tough on knives. Bamboo isn’t as absorbent as wood, reducing the risk of water damage but also less effective at killing bacteria.
Glass
Glass boards are easy to clean and dishwasher safe, but they can dull your knives quickly. They are also prone to slipping and shattering.
Plastic
Plastic cutting boards are inexpensive and dishwasher-safe. However, unlike wooden boards, plastic ones can harbor bacteria in knife grooves.
The Impact of Dishwashers on Wooden Cutting Boards
Washing wooden cutting boards in a dishwasher can inflict significant damage due to some specific factors. These features of the dishwasher environment are detrimental to wood:
High Temperatures
Dishwashers use heat to sterilize dishes, but this high temperature can be harsh on wooden cutting boards. The intense heat can cause the board to dry out too quickly, leading to cracks or splintering.
Water Exposure
Dishwashers soak dishes in water and use hot steam for a prolonged period. While this works well for most dishes, it’s disastrous for wooden cutting boards. They absorb water, which can lead to swelling and ultimately warping over time.
Detergent
Certain harsh detergents made for dishwashers can deteriorate the wood’s natural oils that preserve and keep the wood strong and resilient.
Handwash: The Recommended Cleaning Method
Handwashing is the recommended cleaning method for wooden cutting boards, primarily due to its less abrasive nature. It offers numerous benefits to ensure the longevity and sanitation of your board:
- Gentle Cleaning: Handwashing allows for control over water temperature and exposure, minimizing the risk of warping and cracking. It’s a milder process that maintains the board’s structure and durability.
- Sanitation: Although you might think dishwashers would be superior in sanitization, a proper handwashing method can effectively clean wooden cutting boards. Using mild soap and warm water can remove food residues, and an occasional rub with a half lemon can help maintain freshness and eliminate odors.
- Oil Preservation: Handwashing doesn’t strip off the essential oils of the wood like dishwashers can. These oils naturally condition the wood, keeping the surface smooth and long-lasting.
Dos and Don’ts of Caring for Your Wooden Cutting Board
Caring for your wooden cutting board is a vital part of ensuring its longevity. Here are some do’s and don’ts that will keep your board in top shape:
Do’s
- Dry Immediately. After washing, dry the board immediately. This prevents water from soaking in and warping the wood.
- Regular Oil Application. Every few weeks, or when the board looks dry, apply a light coating of food-safe mineral oil or beeswax. This step maintains the board’s luster and prevents the wood from drying out.
Don’ts
- Don’t Soak. Never soak your wooden board in the water. This can cause swelling and warping, leading to potential cracking.
- Avoid Dishwashers. As mentioned earlier, the dishwasher’s environment is too harsh for these delicate items. As a rule of thumb, keep your wooden boards out of the dishwasher.
- Don’t Leave Wet. Leaving the board damp or wet could encourage bacteria growth. Always dry your board thoroughly.
Alternative Dishwasher-Safe Cutting Boards
If you’re a fan of convenient dishwasher cleaning but love the functionality of cutting boards, there are several alternative materials to consider:
Plastic
Plastic cutting boards are lightweight, versatile, and majorly dishwasher-safe. They can be a good choice for fish or meat due to their non-porous nature, preventing bacterial contamination.
Silicone
Silicone cutting boards are flexible, easy to clean, and also safe for the dishwasher. Their grippy surface also makes them less likely to slip while chopping.
Composite
Composite cutting boards are made from a combination of materials like wood fibers and phenolic resins. These boards resist warping, scratching and are generally dishwasher-safe.
Stainless Steel
Though not as common, stainless steel cutting boards are incredibly easy to clean and are dishwasher-safe. Be wary though, as they can be tough on your knives.
FAQ on Cleaning and Caring for Cutting Boards
Here are common questions and answers on cleaning and maintaining cutting boards, particularly with dishwasher-related concerns:
1. Can I put any type of cutting board in the dishwasher?
Not all cutting boards are dishwasher safe. Wood and bamboo boards should always be washed by hand, while plastic, composite, and silicone ones typically can go in the dishwasher. Always check the board’s care instructions to be sure.
2. Is a dishwasher’s sanitation cycle necessary for cutting boards?
While the sanitation cycle may help with killing bacteria, it’s not a must, especially if the high heat risks damaging the board. Proper cleaning with soap and hot water, even by hand, can keep your cutting board safe and sanitary.
3. How can I remove stains from my cutting board?
For non-porous, dishwasher-safe boards, a run in the dishwasher may remove stains. For wooden ones, you could make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stained area, and gently scrub.
4. How often should I oil my wooden cutting board?
There’s no set rule, but a good guideline is to oil it when it starts to look dry or dull. This can range from every few weeks to a few months, depending on how often you use the board and its exposure to water.
5. Can I use a heavily grooved plastic cutting board in the dishwasher?
Grooves can harbor bacteria, but running the board in the dishwasher should effectively sanitize it. However, if the board is deeply scratched or grooved, it could be time to replace it for sanitary reasons.
Conclusion
In conclusion, caring for your cutting board, especially if it’s wooden, goes beyond just cleaning. It involves knowing the unique properties of your board’s material, understanding the harmful effects of washing it in the dishwasher, and adopting recommended cleaning methods like handwashing. Maintenance is just as important, with habits like prompt drying and regular oiling ensuring a long lifespan for your board. Your cutting board is an invaluable kitchen ally, and it deserves the care it needs for a lasting culinary partnership.
