How To Properly Clean And Preserve Your Kitchen Utensils

If you’re like most people, you probably take your kitchen utensils for granted.

You use them every day to cook your food, and you probably clean them off after each use, but do you know how to properly clean and preserve them? If not, then you could be doing more harm than good. Even if you clean your utensils regularly, there are still some things you can do to prolong their life and keep them looking new.

Therefore, in this article, we will discuss the best ways to clean and preserve your kitchen utensils so that they will last longer and perform better. Let’s get started!

Washing Tips

The first step to properly cleaning your kitchen utensils is to wash them. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people don’t properly wash their utensils. They’ll rinse them off quickly after each use, but they won’t take the time to scrub them down with soap and water.

As a result, food residue and bacteria can build up on the utensils, which can lead to problems like stains, odors, and even rust. Therefore, it’s important to wash your utensils thoroughly after each use. The best way to do this is to use warm water and mild dish soap. Scrub the utensils with a soft brush or sponge to remove any dirt or food particles.

Cleaning Wooden Utensils

Wooden utensils are a bit more delicate than other types of kitchen utensils, so you’ll need to take a different approach when cleaning them. The first thing you should do is avoid soaking wooden utensils in water for extended periods. This can cause the wood to warp and crack. Instead, wipe down the wooden utensils with a damp cloth or paper towel. Be sure to dry them off immediately after cleaning to prevent water damage. You can also use a mild soap on wooden utensils, but be sure to rinse it off completely afterward. 

To preserve wooden utensils, it’s important to regularly oil them. This will help to keep the wood from drying out and cracking, which is especially common in wooden cutting boards. Simply rub a light layer of cutting board oil onto the wood with a clean cloth. Let it soak in for a few minutes before wiping off any excess. Doing this once a month will help to keep your wooden utensils in good condition.

Use Vinegar For Tough Stains

If you have tough stains on your kitchen utensils, then you may need to use vinegar to remove them. Vinegar is a natural cleaning agent that can be used to remove stains from a variety of surfaces, including stainless steel.

To use vinegar to clean your kitchen utensils, simply soak a cloth or paper towel in vinegar and then wipe down the stained area. Let the vinegar sit on the stain for a few minutes before wiping it away. You may need to repeat this process a few times to remove tough stains. And if you use stainless steel utensils, white vinegar will also help to remove water spots and give your utensils a  polished look.

Preventing Rust On Kitchen Utensils

Rust is a common problem with kitchen utensils, but there are a few things you can do to prevent it. First, make sure to dry your utensils thoroughly after washing them. This will help to prevent water spots, which can lead to rust. And if you live in a humid climate, it’s also a good idea to store your utensils in a dry place. 

Another way to prevent rust is to coat your steel and iron kitchen utensils with a thin layer of oil. This will create a barrier that will prevent water and moisture from coming into contact with the metal. Simply wipe down the utensils with a light layer of oil after washing and drying them. Just be sure to wipe off any excess oil before using the utensils, as this can make them sticky.

Sanitizing Your Kitchen Utensils

In addition to washing your kitchen utensils, you should also sanitize them regularly. This is especially important if you use utensils to prepare food for other people, as it will help to prevent the spread of bacteria. There are a few different ways you can sanitize your kitchen utensils. 

One option is to soak the utensils in a solution of 1 tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water. Let the utensils soak for at least 5 minutes before rinsing them off with clean water. Another option is to run the utensils through the dishwasher. Be sure to use hot water and a high-temperature setting, as this will help to kill any bacteria that may be present.

Also, avoid using sponges to clean your kitchen utensils. These can be a breeding ground for bacteria, so it’s best to use other cleaning methods. If you do use a sponge, be sure to sanitize it regularly. The best way to do this is to soak the sponge in a solution of 1 tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water. Let the sponge soak for at least 5 minutes before rinsing it off and allow it to air dry.

Cleaning Cast Iron Utensils

Cast iron kitchen utensils are a bit different than other types of utensils, so you’ll need to take a different approach when cleaning them. First, avoid using soap on cast iron, as this can remove the seasoning that’s been applied to the surface. If you do need to use soap, be sure to rinse it off completely afterward. 

To clean cast iron,  simply scrub it with a stiff brush and hot water. If there’s stubborn food that’s stuck to the surface, you can use a little bit of white vinegar or baking soda to help loosen it. Once the cast iron is clean, dry it off completely and apply a thin layer of oil to the surface. This will help to prevent rust and keep the seasoning in place.

As you can see, even though you might not think about it often, there’s a lot that goes into properly cleaning and preserving your kitchen utensils. However, with a bit of understanding and the right approach, it’s not difficult to keep your kitchen utensils clean and in good condition. Just be sure to follow the tips and tricks outlined in this article, and you’ll be well on your way to keeping your kitchen utensils looking and functioning like new.