Wooden spoons are a must-have in my kitchen. I use them for just about everything—mixing sauces, stirring stews, scraping the bottom of nonstick pans, and even serving rice. But like many busy women juggling home life, I really depend on my dishwasher to make cleaning up quicker. That’s where my little problem began. One evening, I carelessly tossed a few wooden spoons into the dishwasher without a second thought. The next morning, I pulled them out to discover their once-smooth surfaces were cracked, rough, and warped. That’s when I started to wonder—can you really put wooden spoons in the dishwasher?
After diving into some research, trying out different methods, and consulting with experts, I found out that putting wooden spoons in the dishwasher is a big no-no. Here’s what happened, what I discovered, and how I now take care of my wooden utensils the right way. I’ll also share a link to another article I found super helpful—Do Dishwashers Need Cleaning? Here’s What I Learned After Doing It Myself—which really opened my eyes to the importance of keeping my dishwasher in good shape too.
What Happens When You Put Wooden Spoons in the Dishwasher?
The first time I tossed my wooden spoons into the dishwasher, I was completely unprepared for what would happen next. The combination of intense heat, powerful water pressure, and extended moisture exposure completely altered their texture. When I pulled them out, they were a far cry from the smooth, reliable cooking tools I had used just the day before. Instead, I found splintered edges, a dull gray color, and a faint whiff of mildew. The wood had lost its integrity.
Wood is naturally porous, and when it faces high temperatures and wet conditions, it tends to swell and then shrink as it dries, which can lead to warping or cracking. This isn’t just a surface issue; it compromises the spoon’s structure, making it less safe over time. To make matters worse, the harsh detergents in dishwashers strip the wood of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. So, if your wooden spoons look like they’ve aged two decades after just one wash, it’s because they practically have.
That single dishwasher experience taught me a crucial lesson. Since then, I’ve made it a point to hand-wash my wooden utensils and treat them with the care they truly deserve. The improvement in their durability is remarkable, and I have no intention of going back.
Why Wooden Spoons Deserve Special Care
I used to think all kitchen tools were pretty much the same when it came to cleaning, but wooden spoons are a whole different story. They’re not like stainless steel spatulas or silicone ladles. Wood is a living material; it breathes, expands, absorbs, and reacts to its surroundings. Because of this, it needs a bit of extra love and care.
One major reason wooden spoons require special attention is hygiene. If they’re not cleaned properly, they can trap bacteria deep within the grain. This becomes a real concern if the spoon develops cracks from harsh dishwasher cycles. Once bacteria get in there, it’s almost impossible to sanitize without risking further damage to the spoon. I once held onto a spoon that had a tiny crack in the handle, thinking it was no big deal. Eventually, it started to smell funny—and no amount of scrubbing could save it. That was my wake-up call: a cracked wooden spoon is no longer safe to use.
On the bright side, if you take good care of your wooden utensils, they can last for years, sometimes even decades. But that’s only if you oil them, clean them gently, and keep them away from extreme temperatures. It’s like giving your kitchen tools a skincare routine—something I’ve learned the hard way.
How I Now Wash and Maintain My Wooden Spoons
Since I ditched the dishwasher, I’ve developed a straightforward and effective routine to keep my wooden spoons clean, safe, and in great shape. First off, I always wash them by hand with warm water and a gentle dish soap. I use a soft sponge to avoid scratching the surface. After rinsing, I dry them right away with a towel—never letting them air dry, which I found out can lead to warping over time.
Every couple of weeks, I pamper my spoons with food-grade mineral oil or coconut oil. I rub a small amount into the wood with a clean cloth and let it sit overnight. This keeps the wood hydrated and gives it a lovely, rich shine. I used to think this step was optional, but after making it a regular part of my routine, I’ve noticed how it helps prevent drying and cracking. My spoons now feel smooth and sturdy, not flaky or weak.
Can Some Wooden Utensils Be Dishwasher Safe?
I was pretty surprised to discover that some manufacturers actually claim their wooden utensils can go in the dishwasher. These are usually made from bamboo or engineered wood composites that have been treated with protective coatings. I decided to test out a bamboo spoon set that was labeled “dishwasher safe,” and while it made it through two cycles without any major damage, I did notice some slight fading and drying on the surface.
To me, it just doesn’t seem worth the risk. If you’re investing in quality wooden kitchen tools, why jeopardize their lifespan by exposing them to extreme heat and moisture? Just because the label says “dishwasher safe” doesn’t mean it’s the best option.
From now on, I’m taking those labels with a grain of salt. Just because something can go in the dishwasher doesn’t mean it should—especially if you want it to last more than a few months.
Final Verdict: Keep Wooden Spoons Out of the Dishwasher
If you’re debating whether it’s okay to toss your wooden spoons in the dishwasher, let my experience serve as a warning. I’ve seen how quickly they can fall apart. The surface dries out, the structure warps, and before you know it, the spoon is nearly useless. And that’s not even considering the hygiene concerns.
Instead, treat your wooden utensils with a little TLC. Hand-wash them gently, dry them right away, and give them a little oil treatment to keep them nourished. Trust me, your spoons will look better, feel smoother, and last for years longer. I’ve made this a part of my weekly kitchen routine—and honestly, it’s kind of satisfying.
Taking that extra moment to hand-wash and care for my tools reminds me that even small daily habits can have a big impact on the heart of the home: the kitchen.
