Cutting Board Maintenance
Cutting-board maintenance depends upon what kind of cutting board you use. How you use your cutting board may also impact its care. Good cutting-board care is not only critical to keep your cutting board in peak condition but also to prevent food-borne illnesses. Knowing how to properly maintain your cutting boards can keep your family safe and healthy and allow you to enjoy a good-quality cutting board for a lifetime.
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Wooden Cutting Boards
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Wooden cutting boards are one of the most popular choices. In terms of keeping your knives sharp, wood is ideal. Unfortunately, wooden cutting boards may be more difficult to clean. Consider using this cutting board for vegetables, herbs and bread and having an easier-to-clean one available for cutting meats. You may use hot, soapy water to clean wooden cutting surfaces, but avoid submerging. Spray with straight vinegar to disinfect. Anytime the wood looks dry, gently apply mineral oil, rubbing it into the surface of the wood.
Plastic Cutting Boards
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In terms of cleaning ease, plastic cutting boards are ideal. You may still wish to have a designated cutting board for meat to prevent food contamination; however, your plastic cutting board can easily go in the dishwasher and be bleached as needed. Other than regular washing and disinfecting, no additional care is required.
Glass Cutting Boards
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Glass cutting boards are also easy to clean, affordable and easily disinfected. Bleach is an acceptable choice for these cutting boards. That said, glass is the worst choice in terms of caring for your valuable kitchen knives. Your glass board can be washed by hand or dishwasher and sprayed with bleach as needed.
Bamboo Cutting Boards
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Bamboo cutting boards offer a hard surface similar to wood. They may be hand-washed with soap and water. Avoid using bleach, but straight vinegar is an acceptable disinfectant. Be sure to use a food-grade mineral oil to oil your bamboo cutting board regularly, rubbing the oil in thoroughly. This will prevent damage and splintering and keep your cutting board beautiful for years to come.
Corian Cutting Boards
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One new cutting-board option on the market is Corian. While Corian is most commonly used for countertops, it makes an excellent and easily cleaned surface. The surface is nonporous and does not stain easily. Wash with soap and water and treat with bleach or vinegar as you prefer to keep your cutting board clean and in good condition.
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