Servingware made from wood require special care and cleaning whether you intend to use them for food or not. To make sure you're getting the most out of your bowls, consider these suggestions.
Cleaning
If you take care of your wooden bowls, they can last for generations. By sanitizing and seasoning them on a regular basis, you may keep microorganisms at bay and extend their useful life for a long time. Also, it is recommended to swap out any broken components.
Vinegar and water is a great combination for cleaning wooden bowls. You may use a soft cloth to apply this all over the bowl and then wipe it clean. The antibacterial and mildew-killing effects of vinegar are well-documented.
Coarse sea salt and fresh lemon juice is another option. The gentle abrasiveness of this will aid in the removal of stubborn stains. Paper towels dampened with a mixture of lemon juice and water can also be used to clean the bowl.
You might also use a disinfectant like vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. It's best to apply this to the bowl, let it sit for a few minutes, and then rinse it off with hot water.
Sanitizing
Wooden bowls may be disinfected using a solution of vinegar and water, which effectively removes mold and germs. It may be used as a natural antibacterial agent and deodorizer.
In a dish, combine 1 part vinegar with 5 parts water. The ingredients need to sit together for a while. Completely drying off the dish is necessary to remove any trace of moisture. Use a warm water rinse. Spraying the dish with water is another option.
A combination of lemon juice and salt is another effective method for sterilizing wooden bowls. The lemon juice not only kills germs but also imparts a delicious, crisp flavor. The salt will scratch the surface somewhat.
When you've washed and disinfected your wooden bowls, you may next coat them in mineral oil to preserve them. Repairing the timber in this way will prevent further drying and cracking. Mineral oil is widely accessible at supermarkets and drugstores. A paper towel can be used to apply it generously. When the oil has sat for 15 minutes, you may wipe it off.
Reseasoning
Make sure to give your wood bowl a thorough cleaning after each use, whether it's for serving hot meals, fresh bread, or a salad, so you may use it for years to come. If your wooden bowl is damaged, you may bring it back to looking brand new by utilizing different glues, coatings, and restoration methods.
You may extend the life of your wooden bowl and give it a new lease on life by re-oiling it. A store-bought product will do the trick, or you may use the same method you would for refinishing wood. If you want the best results from your re-oiling, employ the procedure recommended on the product's packaging.
Cleaning your wooden bowl by hand is recommended. This may be done by filling the bowl with hot water and soap and wiping it down with a towel. You shouldn't use a dish scrubber with rough bristles since it might harm your hardwood bowl. After you're done, set the bowl aside to dry.
Can You Use a Wooden Bowl as a Plate?
Wooden bowls are not only functional, but also aesthetically pleasing, and may be used to serve everything from salad to soup. Of course, you'll also notice that they have their drawbacks. If you want them to last as long as possible, you must be cautious when using them and treat them with respect.
The sorts of wood used to craft bowls are nearly limitless. A few are hardy while others are easily broken. Choose a bowl manufactured from a type of wood that is both naturally antimicrobial and simple to wipe off after use.
Wooden bowls, in a range of sizes, are also widely available for ornamental purposes. Add them to your kitchen and they may become indispensable. If at all possible, you should not use these for serving drinks. Dry foods are better served in them.
Wooden bowls should be washed in hot soapy water and then wiped dry. You should also stay away from using bleach and other harsh chemicals on them. Instead, switch to a gentle dish sponge and soap.