Food - Drink
The Pantry Staple That Can Remove Strong Odors From Wooden Utensils
By LAUREN ROTHMAN
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, may be the most versatile item in the average kitchen pantry. This alkaline powder can not only be used in cooking and baking; it's also a time-honored cleaning and sanitizing agent, and a simple baking soda paste can even remove "off" odors from wooden utensils.
Wooden cooking utensils are a staple for most home cooks, since they are versatile, durable, and don't damage pots and pans, but cleaning them requires a bit more time and energy. Since wood is porous, it can absorb food stains and smells, and wooden utensils can’t be washed in the dishwasher, which strips away their natural oils.
To make your wooden kitchen tools good as new, simply mix one tablespoon of baking soda with one teaspoon of water, rub it into the stained or smelly wooden utensil, then rinse and dry it. If you don't have a box of baking soda around, soaking the utensil in lemon juice is a decent alternative to freshen things up.