The cutting board is one of the most important tools in your kitchen. Most people clean it well enough after use but do not realise the surface is exposed to plenty of bacteria, especially if it is used for raw meat. Meat juices can seep into the minute creases of the board and stay there, creating a fertile breeding ground for germs.
Here are four ways to clean your cutting board more effectively.
1. Dish soap
The easiest method is by using dish soap. Be generous with the amount, and use hot water if you can when rinsing.
Have a dedicated sponge for scrubbing your cutting board as this reduces cross-contamination of bacteria from raw meat onto other cutlery and utensils.
2. Bleach
You have probably not heard of bleaching your cutting board as it is used for food, but this is an effective way to clean it. Use one teaspoon of unscented liquid chlorine bleach for each litre of water.
Flood the surface of the board with the solution and let it sit for several minutes. Rinse thoroughly, preferably with hot water, and air-dry or pat with paper towels.
Note that this method is only suitable for wood and plastic cutting boards. Wear protective gear like a mask and gloves to prevent the bleach from coming into contact with your skin.
3. Vinegar
For a more organic approach, mix one part white vinegar to four parts water and let your cutting board soak in the solution. After a few minutes, rinse and pat the board dry.
4. Lemon and salt
When life gives you lemons, pair it with salt to remove germs from your cutting board. Sprinkle salt across the board generously, slice a lemon in half and use the flat side to give it a good scrubbing.
Let it sit for five minutes, then rinse with a sponge for a germ-free cutting board.
This article first appeared in kaodim.com.
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