Let us think for a moment about alllll of the things we use our cutting boards for: chopping that apple π, mincing garlic and onion, and cubing the occasional tofu block. Now, not any one of these is bad per sΓ©, but think of all the remnants each of these sessions have left on the cutting board over the course of its life. Let’s be honest, cutting boards have the potential to become petri dishes that keep on giving. It is up to alllll of us to make sure they aren’t giving us food-illness or anything icky of the sort! Here are the things I use and the steps I follow to keep mine as germ-free as possible and disinfect my cutting board.
About the ingredients/supplies
Distilled white vinegar
- An environmentally-friendly, yet effective cleanser
- Extremely versatile at cleaning, disinfecting, removing odors and so much more!
- Safe for use around children and pets
Distilled (or filtered) water
- The best option for the cleanest disinfectant possible
- If you don’t have distilled water, filtered water is a close second
- It doesn’t contain any of the nasty minerals found in tap water
Lemon essential oil
- Is antimicrobial, and inhibits the growth of bacteria
- Has purifying properties, and is a natural cleanser
- Well-known for its refreshing, citrusy scent
Melaleuca (Tea tree) essential oil
- Is antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiseptic and antiviral
- Minimizes the spread of bacteria
- Has purifying and cleansing properties
Spray bottle
- Distributes a light mist evenly, so we don’t douse our cutting boards in liquid, which would be no bueno
- I’ve repurposed an old spray bottle, but if you don’t have anything handy, you could order something similar (linked above ππΎ)
- It is generally recommended to use dark glass to store anything with essential oils, so their effective properties aren’t lost, so be sure to store your spray bottle in a cool, dark cabinet when not in use, especially if it isn’t dark glass. Do as I say, not as I do!
- I often repurpose old bottles and jars for my DIY products and cleansers, which is an easy way to be more eco-friendly. Removing old product stickers and labels used to be quite the chore β€ but now it’s a breeze when I use my DIY Goo Gone to get the sticky off.
Coconut oil (optional)
- Its antibacterial properties prevent the spreading of germs and bacteria
- Is used to condition the wood for cutting boards, it’s perfect at filling in the natural gaps and grooves and keeping the germies out!
How to make
- Remove the nozzle from your spray bottle, and get ready to add:
- 1 part Vinegar
- Followed by 2 parts Water
- Then, add 5 drops each of Lemon and Melaleuca (Tea tree) essential oils
- Add the nozzle back on your spray bottle, and shake to combine
- Done!
How to use
- Use a moist (and not soaking, sopping wet), soapy sponge to clean the surface and remove any debris/residue
- Spray down entire surface with our DIY Disinfectant Spray and let sit for 10 minutes
- After 10 minutes, dry surface with a dry cloth
- Allow to dry completely
- OPTIONAL: Add a thin layer of Coconut oil to condition and protect the surface
- Let set overnight
- Congratulations! You’ve just learned how to disinfect your cutting board ππΎCan I interest you in how I make my natural laundry scent booster next?!