A good spoon will last a lifetime but unfortunately not all wooden spoons are created equal. Some are cheap and nasty, others are just cheap and some are even nice! But how do you know when to throw away a wooden spoon?
When should you throw away wooden spoons?
Are there certain signs that indicate when it’s time to throw out your wooden spoons? Most of the time, this is a pretty easy task.
If your spoon has a crack in it, or if the edges are starting to splinter, it’s probably time to retire your wooden spoon. Throw away old wooden spoons that have been in storage for too long as they may have absorbed some of the flavors of their previous contents. The problem is that most people don’t know what signs indicate that it’s time to throw away their wooden spoons.
How often should I replace wooden spoons?
Wooden spoons are one of the most common kitchen utensils. Many people have a drawer full of them, and they’re often given as gifts. They’re attractive, absorbent, and easy to handle. They can be used to stir all kinds of things, from batter to soup to gravy.
Wooden spoons are an ideal tool for cooking many foods, but they aren’t indestructible. Over time, wooden kitchen utensils begin to seem like an old friend — until you realize that your friend is no longer doing its job properly. When should you get rid of a wooden spoon? Here are some signs that it’s time for replacement:
Has splinters: If your wooden spoon has splinters sticking out because it’s become so worn, throw it away and buy a new one. The wood is too worn down for the spoon to work efficiently or safely with food.
Has split or cracks: Splits and cracks in the wood can harbor bacteria and make the spoon more difficult to clean. Get rid of it in favor of a new one.
Is very thin: If your wooden spoon has become very thin over time, it’s not going to be at all effective for stirring anything anymore. Thin spoons also might break easily when used for work.
How Many Wooden Spoons Does Your Kitchen Need?
If you have more than one spoon then ask yourself if you need more than one wooden spoon. If you only use a medium-sized saucepan then there is no need to have 5 wooden spoons of different sizes in your kitchen drawer.
How Often Do You Use the Wooden Spoon?
Is it possible that a wooden spoon is pushed out of sight at the back of the kitchen drawer and rarely used? If so it is not surprising that over time with infrequent use, the spoon will take on odors and absorb flavors from previous cooking experiments. Throw away wooden spoons that don’t get much use as they will eventually go off.
Can wooden spoons go in the dishwasher?
Wooden spoons are not meant to sit in water, so don’t put them in the dishwasher. In addition to drying them thoroughly between uses, try to make sure they’re completely dry before putting them away.
Final Words
Wooden spoons are great for stirring, but that’s about it. They absorb odors and flavors, and they usually have a shorter lifespan than metal spoons.
When you notice the wood has turned soft or splintery. When you notice mold on the wood. When the handle is cracked or warped. When the spoon is warped, dented, or otherwise damaged to a point where it doesn’t work well. It’s time to throw away wooden spoons.
