How to Clean a Cutting Board with Vinegar, Lemon & Salt

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Every kitchen has a faithful workhorse that deserves a little extra care: the cutting board. It sees daily action, so it’s no surprise when it starts to hold onto smells and lose its just-bought look. If you’re wondering how to bring it back to form—without resorting to extreme fixes like hairspray—here are two straightforward methods that deliver a quick refresh.

Method No. 1: Vinegar + Water

Mix ordinary table vinegar with water in a 1:1 ratio. Dampen a cotton pad with the solution and gently wipe the board’s surface. The vinegar helps neutralize lingering odors and restores a cleaner appearance. When you’re done, rinse the board thoroughly under running water.

Method No. 2: Lemon + Salt

Halve a lemon and rub it over the board, then sprinkle regular table salt across the surface. Let the mixture sit for 15–20 minutes so it can do its work, and rinse well with water. This simple combo not only tackles unwanted smells but also leaves the board feeling fresh.

Clean cutting boards don’t require complicated routines. With either vinegar-and-water or lemon-and-salt, you’ve got two easy, affordable—and most importantly, safe—ways to keep your kitchen mainstay in reliable shape.