At Kitchen Design and More by Doug, we know that the tools you cook with matter just as much as the meals you make. We believe in keeping your kitchen stocked with high-quality, natural materials, especially wood. Whether it’s our signature spurtle sets, wooden spoons, or cutting boards, wooden tools offer warmth, durability, and beauty. But they also require a little care to stay in top shape.
Here’s how we clean, condition, and store our wooden kitchen tools to keep them looking and working like new for years.
1. Clean Gently, Every Time
Wood and dishwashers don’t mix. The heat, water pressure, and prolonged soaking can cause cracking, swelling, and warping. At Kitchen Design and More by Doug, we always recommend hand-washing wooden tools with warm (not hot) water and mild soap. Use a soft sponge, and rinse quickly. Never leave them soaking in the sink; like any natural surface, too much water will wear them down over time.
Understanding how materials behave, whether you’re thinking about how a sink works or how to clean responsibly, is key to preserving the tools you use every day.
2. Dry Right Away
After washing, dry your wooden utensils immediately. Air drying might seem more manageable, but often leaves water in grooves and seams, leading to long-term damage. We pat ours dry with a dish towel and let them breathe for a few minutes before storing.
We apply the same logic to kitchen surfaces and cabinetry, especially when we work with clients to choose finishes that complement neutral paint colors for the whole house or the best whole house paint colors 2023. Everything in your kitchen should last, including the tools.
3. Condition with Food-Safe Oil
Like wood furniture or butcher block countertops, wooden utensils benefit from regular conditioning. Rub a small amount of food-grade mineral oil or beeswax-based board cream every few weeks. This helps restore moisture, prevent cracking, and maintain that beautiful natural grain.
We do this with all of our wooden products at Kitchen Design and More by Doug, and it’s a simple ritual that keeps everything looking polished and feeling smooth. Oiled wood always looks great in kitchens with neutral home colors and warm, earthy tones.
4. Store Smartly
Avoid cramming wooden tools into a crowded drawer or storing them near steam-prone areas like the stove. We like to hang our utensils or lay them flat in drawer dividers that allow for airflow. If you’re designing your kitchen from the ground up, we often recommend customized drawer inserts or wall racks to show off your beautiful pieces and keep them accessible.
It’s all part of our approach at Kitchen Design and More by Doug: designing not just for how things look but also for how they live and last.
Treat Your Tools Like an Investment
Your kitchen tools work hard every day. Taking care of them doesn’t just extend their life; it also elevates your entire cooking experience. A well-kept wooden spurtle or board feels better in your hand, looks better on your counter, and reminds you of its craftsmanship. At Kitchen Design and More by Doug, we’re committed to building spaces and products that stand the test of time. These small rituals of care are part of that same philosophy.