Taking care of your wood platters
Our wood platters, like all products made from natural materials, possess inherent antibacterial properties—they absorb moisture from your food, along with some bacteria. But before you worry (we know you might), we’ve compiled a guide to keep your platters safe, fresh, and long-lasting.
- One Platter, One Job
Cross-contamination is a serious concern, especially when using a board for both cutting and serving. For example, if you cut raw meat on a board and then slice fruit on the same surface, bacteria from the meat could transfer to the fruit, potentially causing harm.
This risk is relevant when you’re using the same platter for both cutting and serving. If your platter is reserved solely for serving cooked meals, there’s no need to worry. However, we recommend having multiple platters for different tasks—one for cutting, one for serving, and so on. Our SB platters are treated and polished on both sides, allowing you to dedicate one side to cutting and the other to serving. Explore our diverse range of platter sizes and shapes in our online store.
- Clean and Sanitize Properly
Think of your wooden platters like your skin: wash them right, dry them right, and moisturize them regularly to keep them in top condition.
Hand-wash your platters with warm, soapy water. Avoid dishwashers, as constant exposure to heat and water can cause the wood to warp and crack, making it difficult to use and providing breeding grounds for bacteria and mold. If your platter has been in contact with raw meat, sanitize it after washing by mixing one teaspoon of vinegar with four teaspoons of water, then let it dry thoroughly.
Remember to sanitize your kitchen sponge, rag, or brush after using it on your platter to avoid cross-contamination. Or better yet, keep a separate cleaning tool specifically for your wooden platters.
- Dry Completely
Air drying is crucial to keeping your wooden platters safe for food use. Bacteria thrive in moisture, so it’s essential to ensure your platters are thoroughly dry before storing them. After washing, pat dry with a paper towel and allow them to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
Avoid placing your platters in direct sunlight, as extreme heat can cause the wood to bend. If you notice warping, don’t panic. Wrap the platter in a damp towel, place a heavy object (like a stack of books) on the warped area, and let it sit for 2-3 days. This method helps realign the wood.
- Moisturize Regularly
Just as you wouldn’t skip moisturizing your skin, don’t neglect your wooden platters. Re-oiling every other week, depending on usage, keeps the surface knife-friendly and extends the life of the wood by preventing cracks.
Oiling also creates a barrier against bacteria-harboring liquids. Use food-safe mineral oil, as vegetable oils can stain the wood and cause odors. We offer mineral oil in our store, so consider adding a bottle to your cart with your SB platter. Look out for our upcoming post on safe and unsafe oils for your platters.
- Dealing with Stains and Smells
If your platter starts to emit an unpleasant odor, a quick fix is to sprinkle fresh lemon juice over the surface. The acid in the lemon breaks down the bacteria and fats causing the smell and stains.
- Removing Tough Stains
Baking soda is an excellent remedy for stubborn stains. Sprinkle it over the affected area, then scrub with a sponge, cloth, or brush dipped in hot water.
- Light Sanding
Over time, your platter may accumulate scratch marks and cuts from knives. Regular light sanding helps maintain its smooth surface. Don’t wait for the cuts to deepen—use fine sandpaper (150 grit or higher) to keep your platters looking like new.
- When to Replace
If your platters develop deep grooves from repeated use, it may be time to replace them. These cuts can harbor pathogens and trap moisture, creating an environment for bacteria to thrive. However, with proper care you can avoid this and keep your platter for years to come.
Practice these care tips to keep your SB platters safe, fresh, and glowing. We’re here if you have any further questions or tips to share.