Caring for Your Wooden Utensils: Maintenance Tips for Longevity

Wooden kitchen utensils aren’t just practical—they also add warmth and natural beauty to your cooking space. Properly cared for, these utensils can remain reliable kitchen companions for years. At Old Saguaro Woodcraft, we've put together straightforward yet detailed tips to help you maintain and extend the life of your wooden utensils.

Hand Wash Only

Always wash your wooden utensils by hand using warm water and mild dish soap. We recommend using the abrasive side of your sponge to provide a gentle sanding effect, helping maintain a smooth surface and removing any roughness or raised grain. This method not only cleans but also keeps your utensils smooth and pleasant to handle.

Avoid Soaking in Water

Wood is naturally porous, meaning prolonged soaking can lead to warping or cracking. To preserve the integrity of your utensils, rinse and wash promptly after use, avoiding submersion in water. If residue is particularly stubborn, use gentle scrubbing rather than extended soaking.

Dry Thoroughly After Washing

After washing, immediately dry your utensils thoroughly with a soft towel. Complete drying prevents moisture from seeping into the wood, protecting it against potential damage. Avoid air-drying on towels or racks for prolonged periods, as this can cause utensils (or wood in general) to warp or bow due to uneven moisture absorption.

A good example of what not to do is washing your utensil and immediately leaving it to dry on a towel. When you return hours later or the next day, the utensil might have developed a noticeable cup or bow.

What to Do if Your Utensil Becomes Warped:

Disclaimer: This is not a guaranteed fix, but in our experience, many warped utensils have successfully been restored using this method.

If your utensil becomes cupped or bowed, there is a simple technique that may help correct it. This involves using water strategically to counteract the warp:

1. Identify the convex side (the side that curves outward or upward) of your utensil.
2. Place the utensil with the convex side facing upwards on a flat surface.
3. Lightly dampen the convex side with water and allow it to air dry naturally.
4. After 20–30 minutes, you should start seeing improvement. Repeat as needed until the warp is corrected.

This method may require multiple attempts, but patience often yields positive results.

Regular Conditioning

To maintain the natural beauty and prevent drying out, regularly condition your utensils with a food-safe mineral oil or beeswax conditioner. Applying conditioner rejuvenates the wood, keeps it hydrated, and significantly enhances its longevity. Conditioning once every month or two is usually sufficient, but frequency may vary depending on your local climate and utensil usage.

Keep Away from Heat Sources

Never place wooden utensils in dishwashers, microwaves, or near open flames. Excessive heat and moisture can rapidly deteriorate the wood, causing cracking, splitting, or irreversible damage, significantly shortening your utensil’s lifespan.

By following these detailed care practices, you'll ensure your wooden utensils remain in excellent condition, ready to assist you in the kitchen for years to come. Enjoy the warmth, beauty, and practical benefits your handcrafted utensils bring to every meal.