Wooden spoons are a kitchen staple. They’re sturdy, reliable, and gentle on your cookware. However, even the toughest wooden spoon needs proper care to last. Unfortunately, we often make common mistakes that lead to the early demise of these kitchen tools. To keep your wooden spoons in tip-top shape, here are nine things you should stop doing immediately.
1. Soaking Them in Water for Too Long
Wood is a porous material, meaning it absorbs liquids easily. When you leave your wooden spoons soaking in water, they swell, warp, and become a breeding ground for bacteria. Long soaks also break down the structure of the wood, leading to cracks over time.
The solution? Wash your spoons right after use and dry them immediately. Avoid tossing them into a sink of water and letting them sit for hours. The less exposure to water, the longer your spoons will last.
2. Using Them on High Heat
Wooden spoons can handle moderate heat, but they’re not invincible. Exposing them to extremely high temperatures can cause cracks, warping, and even scorching. While it may seem like no big deal to use them on high heat, the long-term effects will weaken the spoon.
Stick to using your wooden spoons for stirring sauces, soups, or gently simmering dishes. For high-heat cooking, opt for silicone or metal utensils that can withstand intense temperatures without damage.
3. Skipping the Oiling Routine
Wood dries out over time, and wooden spoons are no exception. Without proper care, they can become brittle, crack, and lose their smooth finish. Oiling your wooden spoons is essential to keeping the wood moisturized and protected.
Use a food-safe oil, like mineral oil or beeswax, to condition your spoons every few months. Simply rub a small amount of oil into the wood, let it sit overnight, and wipe off any excess. This simple habit can greatly extend the life of your spoons.
4. Scraping the Bottom of Pans
Scraping the bottom of your pots and pans with a wooden spoon may seem harmless, but over time, it can damage the wood. Wooden spoons are tough, but constant scraping wears them down, leading to frayed edges or splinters.
If you need to scrape burnt food off a pan, use a spatula or a dedicated scraper. Your wooden spoon’s purpose is to stir and mix – not to scrape off stubborn bits of food!
5. Storing Them in Damp Places
Storing your wooden spoons in a damp environment is a surefire way to invite mold and bacteria. Wood can retain moisture, and when stored in a damp drawer or left in a wet dish rack, your spoons won’t dry properly.
Always store your spoons in a dry, well-ventilated space. A utensil holder or hanging rack is ideal because it allows air to circulate and dry out the wood completely. Dampness is the enemy of long-lasting wooden spoons!
6. Stirring Acidic Foods
Tomatoes, lemons, and vinegar-based sauces may taste amazing, but they can wreak havoc on wooden spoons. Acidic ingredients can break down the wood fibers, causing them to become rough, discolored, and worn over time. Acid can also cause wooden spoons to absorb unwanted flavors, which could alter the taste of future dishes.
For acidic foods, switch to silicone or stainless steel spoons. They are resistant to acid and won’t absorb flavors, keeping your cooking tools in great condition.
7. Tossing Them in the Dishwasher
Throwing your wooden spoons into the dishwasher might be tempting, but it’s a fast track to damaging them. The high heat and long exposure to water cause the wood to swell, crack, and warp. Additionally, harsh detergents strip away the wood’s natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle.
The best way to clean wooden spoons is by handwashing them with warm water and mild soap. Once clean, dry them immediately with a towel to avoid moisture buildup.
8. Holding On to Damaged Spoons
Even with proper care, wooden spoons will eventually wear out. If your spoon is cracked, splintered, or has deep grooves that trap food and bacteria, it’s time to say goodbye. Using damaged spoons isn’t just unsanitary – it can also pose a safety risk if splinters end up in your food.
Don’t hesitate to replace old, worn-out wooden spoons. It’s better to invest in new ones than to risk health hazards or cooking with ineffective tools.
9. Stirring Raw Meat
Wooden spoons aren’t ideal for handling raw meat. Since they are porous, they can absorb juices and bacteria from raw meat, making it difficult to sanitize them properly. Even with thorough cleaning, some bacteria may remain embedded in the wood.
To prevent cross-contamination, use non-porous utensils like silicone or stainless steel when cooking with raw meat. These materials are much easier to clean and sanitize effectively, keeping your food safe.
Treat Your Wooden Spoons with Care
Wooden spoons are incredibly useful, but they need proper care to stay in good shape. By avoiding these common mistakes – like soaking, exposing them to high heat, or using them on acidic foods – you can keep your spoons functional and beautiful for years to come. Treat them with the care they deserve, and they’ll reward you with longevity and dependable service in the kitchen!
The Lifespan of Kitchen Tools
What are your thoughts? How does learning about proper wooden spoon care change your perspective on the lifespan of other kitchen tools? Are there other kitchen habits you have that might be shortening the life of your utensils without realizing it?