Seven Ways to Remove Mildew from a Wood Cutting Board

Wood cutting boards can develop mildew if they remain damp for an extended period of time. Since wood is porous, mildew can penetrate the surface, making it crucial to clean and sanitize the board properly.

To remove mildew, start with a natural approach by using one of the methods listed below:

1. White Vinegar Solution – White vinegar is a practical, natural solution for removing mildew from wood cutting boards. Its acetic acid content helps kill mold, bacteria, and mildew while being safe for food-contact surfaces.
   • Steps to Clean with Vinegar:
     • Pour undiluted white vinegar into a spray bottle and generously spray the cutting board. If you don’t have a spray bottle, soak a clean cloth in vinegar and wipe the board.
     • Allow the vinegar to sit on the board for at least 10 minutes to break down mildew and bacteria.
     • Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub any stubborn spots.
     • Rinse the board thoroughly to remove the vinegar and loosened mildew.
     • Wipe with a clean towel and let the board air-dry in a well-ventilated area, preferably in direct sunlight to help kill any remaining spores.
     • Optional: As an extra cleaning boost, sprinkle baking soda on the board before applying vinegar. This creates a mild fizzing action that lifts stains and mildew more effectively.
2. Baking Soda Paste – Baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive. Use this method by making a paste with baking soda and water, scrubbing it in, and then rinsing thoroughly.
3. Lemon and Salt Scrub – Lemon and salt work together as a natural cleaning combination to clean wood surfaces, including cutting boards. Here’s how they work:
   • Salt as an Abrasive – Coarse salt, such as kosher salt, acts as a gentle abrasive. When scrubbed onto the wood, it helps lift dirt, stains, and mildew without damaging the surface.
   • Lemon’s Acidity – Lemon juice contains citric acid, which has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties. The acidity breaks down stains, grease, and mildew while neutralizing odors.
   • How to Use Lemon and Salt to Clean a Wood Cutting Board:
     • Sprinkle a generous amount of coarse salt over the cutting board.
     • Cut a lemon in half and use the cut side to scrub the salt into the wood. Squeeze slightly to release juice as you scrub.
     • Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to break down any grime or mildew.
     • Rinse with warm water and dry the board completely with a clean towel.
     • For extra care, apply food-grade mineral oil after drying to prevent the wood from drying out.
     • This method is safe, effective, and chemical-free, making it a great way to clean and refresh wood surfaces naturally.
4. Hydrogen Peroxide – Hydrogen peroxide is an eco-friendly, effective, and natural way to clean and disinfect wood surfaces, including cutting boards, countertops, and furniture. It has antibacterial, antifungal, and bleaching properties that help remove stains, mildew, and odors without the use of harsh chemicals.
   • Here’s how to use hydrogen peroxide to clean cutting boards and kitchen surfaces:
     • Use 3% hydrogen peroxide (the standard household concentration).
     • Pour a small amount directly onto the surface or use a spray bottle to mist the wood evenly.
     • Allow the peroxide to sit for about 5-10 minutes to break down bacteria, stains, or mildew.
     • Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub any stubborn areas, if necessary.
     • Wipe with a damp cloth or rinse with water, then dry thoroughly with a clean towel.
   • For Wooden Furniture or Floors:
     • Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water in a spray bottle.
     • Lightly mist or dampen a cloth and wipe the surface to avoid excess moisture soaking into the wood.
     • Use a dry, soft cloth to remove any remaining moisture and restore shine.
     • For furniture or unfinished wood, condition the wood by appling a small amount of wood conditioner or mineral oil to keep it from drying out.
   • Tips for Best Results:
     • Always test a small, hidden area first to ensure the hydrogen peroxide does not discolor the wood.
     • Avoid soaking wood surfaces, as excessive moisture can cause warping or damage.
     • Regularly clean high-use surfaces like cutting boards to prevent bacteria buildup.
5. Diluted Bleach Solution – Bleach is a powerful disinfectant that can effectively kill mildew on wood surfaces. However, because bleach is strong and can damage wood if used improperly, it’s important to dilute it and use it carefully.
   • How to Use Bleach to Remove Mildew from Wood Surfaces
     • Mix two tablespoons of bleach with one gallon of water (for stubborn mildew, use a quarter cup of bleach).
     • Pour into a spray bottle and lightly mist the affected area, or use a cloth or sponge to apply the solution.
     • Allow the bleach to work for 5-10 minutes to break down mildew.
     • Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub the surface and lift mildew stains.
     • If necessay, allow the cutting board to soak for a few minutes in the bleach water.
     • Rinse thoroughly.
     • Wipe the wood with a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining bleach solution.
     • Let the wood air dry fully to prevent future mildew growth.
   • Precautions:
     • Test first by trying the bleach solution on a small, hidden area to ensure it doesn’t discolor or damage the wood.
     • Avoid using bleach excessively as bleach can weaken wood fibers over time.
     • Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
     • After cleaning, recondition the wood by applying mineral oil or wood conditioner to prevent drying and cracking.
6. Sun Drying – Sun drying is a natural, chemical-free, and effective method for killing mildew on a wood cutting board. The sun’s UV rays help destroy mold, bacteria, and mildew spores while also drying out excess moisture that contributes to mildew growth.
   • Steps to Sun Dry Your Cutting Board:
     • Wash the board with warm water and mild dish soap to remove any surface dirt or mildew.
     • Use a clean towel to dry the board as much as possible.
     • Set the cutting board outside in full sun, preferably in a dry, ventilated area.
     • Leave the board in the sun for at least 2-6 hours. Rotate it halfway through to ensure all sides are exposed.
     • If stains persist, scrub with a vinegar or baking soda paste, then sun dry again.
     • After sun drying, apply a light coat of food-grade mineral oil to prevent the wood from drying out or cracking.
     • Tips for Best Results:
       • Choose a low-humidity day because sun drying works best in dry, warm weather.
       • Avoid prolonged exposure (over 6 hours), which can cause the wood to warp or crack.
       • Use regularly for prevention since occasional sun drying helps prevent mildew buildup over time.
7. Sanding – For stubborn stains, sanding is an effective last resort.
   • Use this method to remove stains:
     • Use fine-grit sandpaper to remove the top layer of the board where the mildew is embedded.
     • Afterward, apply food-grade mineral oil to protect and restore the wood.

Once the board is mildew-free, prevention is key. Always dry your cutting board completely after washing and store it in a well-ventilated area. Occasional sun drying can also help eliminate lingering moisture. By maintaining proper care, you can keep your wood cutting board clean, safe, and long-lasting.

Thanks for stoppin’ by!

Anne James

Anne James has a wealth of experience in a wide array of interests and is an expert in quilting, cooking, gardening, camping, mixing drinks (bartending), and making jelly.

Anne has a professional canning business, has been featured in the local newspaper as well as on the Hershey website, and has been her family canner for decades. Anyone growing up in the South knows that there is always a person in the family who has knowledge of the “old ways,” and this is exactly what Anne is.

With over 55 years of experience in these endeavors, she brings a level of hands-on knowledge that is hard to surpass. Amazingly, she doesn’t need to reference many resources due to her vast wealth of experience. She IS the source.

Anne wants nothing more than to pass on her extensive knowledge to the next generations, whether that be family or anyone visiting her website, her YouTube channel, or survivalfreedom.com.