DIY Cleaning Methods for Cutting boards

 

What You’ll Need

 

• 1 fresh lemon (halved)
 
• Coarse salt (like kosher or sea salt)
 
• A clean, dry cloth or paper towels
 
• Warm water for rinsing

 

How to Use Lemon and Salt on Cutting Boards

 

• Sprinkle a generous layer of coarse salt over the surface of your cutting board. The salt acts as a gentle abrasive, helping to loosen stuck-on bits and surface stains.
 
• Take one lemon half and squeeze it lightly as you scrub the board with the cut side down. The juice helps lift stains and odors, while the lemon’s acidity works with the salt to break up grime.
 
• Work in small circles, paying extra attention to any stained or smelly spots. Don’t be shy—put some elbow grease into it, especially if your board has seen a few too many onions or beets.
 
• Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes after scrubbing. This gives the lemon juice a little extra time to work on stubborn areas.
 
• Rinse the board thoroughly with warm water to remove all salt and lemon residue. Wipe dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.

 

Extra Tips from the Field

 

• For wooden boards, avoid soaking—excess water can cause warping or cracking. Always dry thoroughly after cleaning.
 
• If your board still smells funky, repeat the process or try sprinkling baking soda before scrubbing with lemon and salt.
 
• Don’t forget the edges and grooves—crumbs and gunk love to hide there. Use the lemon’s tip or a small brush if needed.

 

Why This Works (and What It Actually Does)

 

• Lemon juice contains citric acid, which helps break down surface stains and odors. The salt’s gritty texture scrubs away food particles and residue.
 
• This method is great for routine cleaning and freshening up your cutting board, especially after prepping strong-smelling foods like garlic or fish.

 

 

Baking Soda Paste and Scrub for Cutting Boards

 

• Gather your supplies: You’ll need baking soda, a small bowl, water, a soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works), and a clean cloth or paper towels. If your cutting board is wood, make sure it’s completely dry before you start.

 

• Mix your paste: In your bowl, combine about three tablespoons of baking soda with just enough water to make a thick, spreadable paste. You’re aiming for the consistency of toothpaste—thick enough to cling, but not so dry it crumbles.

 

• Apply the paste: Spread the baking soda paste over the surface of your cutting board, focusing on areas with visible stains or lingering odors. Don’t forget the edges and corners, where gunk likes to hide.

 

• Scrub gently: Using your brush, work the paste into the board with small, circular motions. This helps lift away food residue and surface stains. For plastic boards, you can use a bit more elbow grease; for wood, keep it gentle to avoid scratching the surface.

 

• Let it sit: Give the paste a few minutes to do its thing—about 5 minutes is plenty. This gives the baking soda time to help loosen stuck-on bits and neutralize odors.

 

• Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the board under warm running water, making sure to remove all traces of baking soda. Any leftover paste can leave a gritty feel or affect the taste of your next meal.

 

• Dry completely: Pat the board dry with a clean cloth or paper towel. For wood boards, stand them upright or prop them on their side to air dry fully. This helps prevent warping and keeps your board in good shape.

 

• Extra tip: If your board still smells funky, you can sprinkle a little more baking soda on the surface, rub it in, and let it sit dry for a few hours before rinsing again.