Cleaning tips: Use coarse salt, lemon, and oil to keep your chopping board bacteria-free

When was the last time you deep-cleaned your cutting board? Cutting boards, especially ones made with wood, can harbour bacteria, stains, and odours over time when used frequently. Just cleaning them with soap and water may not be enough. Cutting boards made with wood or bamboo can easily trap bacteria, food particles, stains, and lingering odours over time. Even plastic cutting boards, though less porous, can develop deep stains and become a breeding ground for bacteria in the grooves created by frequent use.

Giving your cutting board a deep clean now and then can help eliminate lingering germs and odours, ensuring it's safe for food preparation. In this guide, we'll walk you through easy and effective steps to deep clean both wooden and plastic cutting boards using simple household materials. With the right care, you can prevent odours, stains, and bacteria buildup, ensuring your cutting board stays in top condition for years to come. Here’s how to deep clean your cutting board, whether it’s made of wood, plastic, or bamboo

• How to deep clean a wooden or bamboo cutting board

Materials needed:

• Coarse salt or baking soda


• Lemon or white vinegar


• Hydrogen peroxide (optional)


• Dish soap


• Scrubbing brush or sponge


• Mineral oil or cutting board conditioner (for maintenance)

Rinse the cutting board: Rinse the board with hot water to remove food particles or debris.

Scrub with coarse salt and lemon: Sprinkle coarse salt or baking soda on the board. Use half a lemon to scrub the surface. The lemon’s acidity is sanitised while the salt scrubs off particles and stains. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes.

Rinse with warm water: Rinse the board thoroughly with warm water to remove salt, lemon juice, and debris.