How to Clean Bamboo Kitchenware: 7 Rules That Make It Last

Bamboo is a favourite in the kitchen: light, durable and natural. But the wrong cleaning can crack it within months. The seven rules below will make your bamboo pieces last considerably longer.

1. Keep it out of the dishwasher

The high heat and long exposure to moisture in a dishwasher swell bamboo fibres, which then crack as they dry. Always wash bamboo by hand in warm soapy water.

2. Do not let it soak

Sitting in a sink full of water is bamboo's worst enemy. Rinse and dry it straight after washing.

3. Dry it immediately and stand it upright

Bamboo left damp can grow mould. Wipe it with a dry cloth and stand it upright where air can reach it.

4. Oil it now and then

A thin coat of food-safe mineral oil once a month stops bamboo drying out and cracking. Apply the oil, leave it 20 minutes and wipe off the excess.

5. No bleach, no abrasives

Bleach lightens the colour and roughens the surface. For lingering smells, rubbing with half a lemon and coarse salt is enough.

6. Keep it away from direct sun and heat

On top of a radiator, next to the oven or on a sunny windowsill, bamboo dries out fast. Store it somewhere cool and shaded.

7. Never set a hot pan straight on it

Bamboo boards and trays are for serving. Do not put a pan fresh off the hob on one without a trivet.

Follow these seven rules and your bamboo pieces will keep their original colour and texture for years.

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