ELIGE MADERA Make Your Wooden Utensils Shine Again with These Simple Tips Wooden tools are an essential resource in any kitchen, both for their rustic and homey design as well as their functional nature (since they don’t damage pots and pans.) They’re also environmentally friendly, and, in the case of wooden cutting boards, much safer than plastic because they prevent bacteria from developing on their surface. This is due to the fact that wood has components that facilitate protection against bacteria, especially if used and cleaned correctly. Wooden tools are an essential resource in any kitchen, both for their rustic and homey design as well as their functional nature (since they don’t damage pots and pans.) They’re also environmentally friendly, and, in the case of wooden cutting boards, much safer than plastic because they prevent bacteria from developing on their surface. This is due to the fact that wood has components that facilitate protection against bacteria, especially if used and cleaned correctly. The only problem is that utensils often wear out over time, taking on a dark brown and less attractive color. That's why we sought out the best advice for how to improve and refurbish your wooden utensils and maintain their color and appearance: Tip 1: Place your wooden utensils on kraft paper or a wide tray. Wash your hands thoroughly and dry them to avoid getting your wooden utensils wet. Using a pastry brush, spread vegetable oil on the utensils. Let them rest for 20 minutes, then apply another coat of oil. Let stand for 20 minutes in a place where they can receive fresh air. When they’re dry, they will be ready to use. Tip 2: Choose your most worn-out wooden utensils. Take a medium-sized piece of fine sandpaper and sand the utensils thoroughly on all sides, until the wood is smooth and clean. Wipe with a clean, slightly damp cloth to catch any dust that may have been released during sanding. With a pastry brush, spread vegetable oil - like a varnish - on the utensils. Let stand for a couple of hours until the oil is well absorbed and they will be ready to be used. For best results, repeat this process every month. Tip 3: Place water, lemon juice and a splash of vinegar in a bowl, then mix well. Place the wooden utensils in the bowl and let them sit for 24 hours. Take them out one by one and sprinkle salt on them. Rinse with water, soap and salt to remove any remaining dirt. Dry with a clean cloth or napkin. With these simple steps, you’ll be able to bring back to life all those old wooden spoons, spatulas, wooden boards, rolling pins, etc. and give your meals that special flavor that only wooden utensils can deliver.