Wooden spoons are beloved kitchen tools, valued for their natural aesthetic, gentle touch on cookware, and versatility. However, when it comes to cleaning, there is often confusion about whether wooden spoons can be safely placed in the dishwasher.
Can I Put Wooden Spoons in the Dishwasher?
The answer is generally no, it's not recommended to put wooden spoons in the dishwasher. While many kitchen utensils can endure the dishwasher's intense heat and water pressure, wooden spoons require more delicate care.
Why Not Dishwash Wooden Spoons?
Water Absorption: Wood is porous and can absorb water. The prolonged exposure to hot water in a dishwasher may cause the wood to swell, leading to cracks or warping.
Detergents and Heat: Dishwasher detergents and high temperatures can be harsh on wooden utensils, stripping them of their natural oils and promoting dryness and potential splintering.
Glued Joints: Wooden spoons often have joints or connections that are glued. The moisture and heat in a dishwasher can weaken these joints over time, compromising the spoon's integrity.
How to Clean Wooden Spoons Properly:
Hand Wash: The safest method for cleaning wooden spoons is to wash them by hand using mild dish soap and warm water. Gently scrub off any food residue with a soft sponge or brush.
Avoid Prolonged Soaking: Do not let wooden spoons soak in water for extended periods, as this can lead to water absorption and potential damage.
Air Dry: After hand washing, allow the wooden spoons to air dry thoroughly. Avoid using a towel to speed up the drying process, as this may trap moisture.
Oil Treatment: Periodically, it's beneficial to treat wooden spoons with food-grade mineral oil or beeswax to maintain their finish and prevent drying.
Other options:
If you don't want to go through so much trouble, using the
disposable wooden spoons provided by Dajue is also a worry-free choice. They are made of pure wood.You just need to throw it in the trash after use, they are highly recyclable and will not cause pollution (which can be a reason for you to be lazy without worry).