11 Expert Tips for Maintaining and Maximizing Your Wooden Spoon's Lifespan

Wooden spoons are a kitchen essential, prized for their versatility and durability. Yet, many overlook proper care, shortening their lifespan.

With expert maintenance, yours can last years. Below, discover 11 proven tips for caring for and using it effectively, drawn from decades of kitchen experience. Plus, explore surprising alternative uses at the end.

Contents

• 1. When should a wooden spoon be used?
• 2. Is it true that a wooden spoon is a breeding ground for bacteria?
• 3. How to clean a wooden spoon
• 4. Can a wooden spoon be put in the dishwasher?
• 5. How to sanitize a wooden spoon
• 6. How to oil and treat the wood of a spoon
• 7. For those who don't want to put their wooden spoon in the oven
• 8. Why oil a wooden spoon?
• 9. Remove bad odors from a wooden spoon
• 10. When should you throw away a wooden spoon?
• 11. How to get rid of stains and rough surfaces on wooden spoons?
• Other uses of the wooden spoon

1. When should a wooden spoon be used?

Opt for a wooden spoon with delicate cookware you don't want to scratch, such as non-stick pans or enameled cast iron casseroles.

It's ideal for stirring and tossing sauces, as wood doesn't conduct heat. No more burning your hands on metal handles.

It's also perfect for mixing ingredients seamlessly.

2. Is it true that a wooden spoon is a breeding ground for bacteria?

Wood is naturally antibacterial. A well-maintained wooden spoon is as hygienic as plastic or metal alternatives.

However, cracks or splits trap food particles, compromising hygiene. Inspect regularly.

3. How to clean a wooden spoon

Simple and effective: Wash by hand with soapy water using your regular dish soap.

Rinse thoroughly, then dry with a cloth or air dry. Find details here.

4. Can a wooden spoon be put in the dishwasher?

Yes, but dishwashers accelerate wear on wood, requiring more frequent replacements.

For cherished spoons, hand wash only. Avoid soaking in dirty sink water—clean immediately after use.

5. How to disinfect a wooden spoon

Wash with hot water and dish soap. Rinse, then soak in a 1:1 water-white vinegar mix.

Rinse again, pat dry with a cloth, and air dry fully.

6. How to oil and treat the wood of a spoon

Apply generous warmed olive oil using a paper towel.

Bake at 175°F for 2-3 minutes.

Optional: Add salt for savory spoons or sugar for baking ones.

7. For those who don't want to put their wooden spoon in the oven

Oven method excels, but try sweet almond oil instead (available here).

Rub on, soak 24 hours—wrap in plastic wrap for better absorption. Pre-soak in saltwater optional.

8. Why oil a wooden spoon?

Oiling nourishes the wood, seals pores, and extends lifespan—saving money over time.

Not essential, but highly recommended by pros.

9. Remove bad odors from a wooden spoon

For onion or garlic smells: Soak in hot water with 2 tbsp baking soda per 50 cl water for 15-20 min, then rinse.

Alternative: Rub on baking soda paste, let sit 45 min, rinse.

10. When should you throw away a wooden spoon?

Discard if wood splits, cracks, or splinters—food traps breed bacteria.

11. How to get rid of stains and rough surfaces on wooden spoons?

Sand stains and rough spots with sandpaper. For tough stains, soak in white vinegar 1 hour first.

Works for spatulas, utensils, and honey spoons too.

Other uses of the wooden spoon

Beyond stirring and mixing, wooden spoons have clever hacks:

1. Test frying oil: Dip handle end; bubbles mean it's ready.

2. Sewing aid: Insert handle behind seams, iron to flatten.

3. Garden guide: Mark depth on handle, use for seed planting.

4. Bed-making: Wedge sheets under mattress easily.

5. Pasta trick: Rest spoon across pot to prevent sticking.

6. Anti-overflow: Bridge spoon over pan edges. See trick here.