Can You Put a Wooden Cutting Board in the Microwave?

You may have seen a lot of memes and articles on the internet about whether or not you can put a wooden cutting board in the microwave. People seem divided on this issue — some say it’s perfectly safe, while others claim it will cause the wood to catch fire. 

A wooden cutting board is made of porous material, which can absorb moisture and heat. In other words, if you put it in the microwave, it could potentially catch fire. However, this is only a risk if the cutting board is not properly cared for. 

So, what’s the truth? Can you put a wooden cutting board in the microwave?

Can You Microwave a Wooden Cutting Board?

Yes, you can microwave a wooden cutting board (when trying to kill bacteria), but it is not the recommended way to clean your cutting board. Just make sure to use the lowest setting on your microwave and only heat the cutting board for a few seconds at a time. Don’t forget to let the cutting board cool completely before using it again.

Some other precautions you need to take when microwaving your wooden cutting board (when trying to kill bacteria) is to avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. You must also ensure that the cutting board is completely dry before microwaving it. If you’re not careful, you could damage your cutting board or even start a fire.

So, while you can microwave a wooden cutting board (when trying to kill bacteria), it’s not the recommended way to clean your cutting board. If you’re looking for a better way to clean your cutting board, there are better ways like using a vinegar and water solution or even just using soap and water.

Can Wooden Skewers Go in the Microwave?

Yes, wooden skewers can safely be used in the microwave but only for shorter periods because they are made of natural materials. If you’re using them for cooking food, ensure the skewer is not touching the food while microwaving.

If you’re just reheating food, shorter microwaving times are better to prevent the wood from drying out and becoming brittle.

Wooden skewers are an excellent option for cooking or reheating food in the microwave. Ensure not to overcook the food or leave the skewer in the microwave for too long, as this can cause the wood to dry out and become brittle. With a bit of care, your wooden skewers will last for many uses in the microwave.

Is Bamboo Microwave Safe?

Some bamboo could be microwave-safe while others are not. Please ensure that the bamboo you’d want to let in the microwave is microwave-safe at all times. 

It’s important to know that not all bamboo cutting boards are created equal. Some are made with treated bamboo, which means they’re safe to use in the microwave. Others are made with untreated bamboo, which means they’re not safe to use in the microwave.

If you’re unsure whether your bamboo cutting board is safe in the microwave, it’s best to avoid using it altogether. If you do use it, make sure to monitor it closely and never leave it unattended.

Can Wood Dishes and Utensils Go in the Microwave?

No, you shouldn’t place wooden dishes or utensils in the microwave for many reasons. First of all, microwaves heat food by agitating water molecules. Wood is largely composed of cellulose, a molecule that doesn’t hold water — meaning the microwaves won’t heat wood very well and could potentially damage your microwave. 

Additionally, wood is an organic material, and microwave radiation could potentially cause the wood to release harmful chemicals. So, it’s best to avoid putting wooden dishes or utensils in the microwave — if you’re looking for an alternative to plastic, try using glass or ceramic.

How Do I Know If My Utensil is Microwave-Safe?

There are a few different ways that you can tell if your cutting board (or any other utensil) is microwave-safe. 

One way is to look for a symbol on the bottom of the board that indicates it is microwave-safe.

Another way is to check the manufacturer’s website or product label – they should list whether or not their products are safe to use in the microwave.

Finally, if you’re still unsure, you can contact the manufacturer directly and ask them. 

If you’re ever in doubt, it’s always better not to put your cutting board (or any other utensil) in the microwave just to be safe.

Can You Put a Wooden Cutting Board in the Dishwasher?

No, you should not put a wooden cutting board in the dishwasher because the dishwasher will damage the wood — hand wash your wooden cutting board with soap and water. If you need to disinfect your wooden cutting board, do so with a vinegar and water solution. 

To disinfect your wooden cutting board using vinegar, mix one part vinegar to three parts water. Then, soak a clean sponge or cloth in the mixture and use it to scrub your cutting board. Finally, rinse your cutting board with clean water and allow it to air dry.

How To Clean and Care For a Wooden Cutting Board?

There are a few things to remember when cleaning and caring for your wooden cutting board.

First, never put your cutting board in the dishwasher. The harsh detergents and high temperatures will damage the wood. 

Second, avoid using hot water on your cutting board. Hot water can cause the wood to warp and crack.

Third, always hand wash your cutting board with warm, soapy water.

Fourth, rinse your cutting board with vinegar or lemon juice after each use to disinfect it. 

Fifth, periodically oil your cutting board with mineral oil to keep it from drying out and cracking.

Sixth, avoid leaving your cutting board in indirect sunlight or humid environments.

Finally, store your cutting board in a cool, dry place.

When Removing Unpleasant Smells

When removing unpleasant smells from your wooden cutting board, use lemon juice and kosher salt to deodorize it. 

1. First, sprinkle the cutting board with kosher salt. 
2. Then, pour lemon juice over the salt. 
3. Let the mixture sit on the board for about five minutes. 
4. Finally, rinse the board with warm water and dry it with a clean towel.

After following these steps, you can try repeating the process if your cutting board is still smelling. You may also want to try using a different type of citrus fruit, such as lime or orange.

When Dealing With Mildew

If your wooden cutting board develops mildew, it might be time to replace it. But if you’re not ready to let go of your trusty cutting board, there are ways to clean it and eliminate the mildew. 

One way is to sand off the affected areas to remove the mildew and any bacteria lurking on the cutting board’s surface. 

If sanding doesn’t work or if you’re worried about bacteria, you can contact a professional cutting board refinisher. They can sand off the affected areas and reseal the cutting board, making it look new and protecting it from future mildew growth.

When Sanitizing Your Wooden Cutting Board

Usually, sanitizing your wooden cutting board using warm water and soap will work just fine. However, if you want to go the extra mile in sanitizing your cutting board – especially if it’s been used for raw meat – you can put it in the microwave. 

Use a solution of one part water to one part vinegar and wet your cutting board. Then, please put it in the microwave on high for two minutes. The heat and vinegar will work together to kill any bacteria lingering on your cutting board. After two minutes, take it out and rinse it off with hot water. 

Your cutting board should now be good as new and bacteria-free! Just be sure to let it cool before using it again.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Final Thoughts 

Wooden cutting boards require some maintenance to last longer and prevent warping and cracking. If you’re looking for an easy-to-care-for option, plastic or glass may be better. If you do opt for wood, make sure to follow the proper care instructions.