Do you have a cutting board that is starting to look worn and tired? If you’re like most Americans, chances are the answer is yes. Cutting boards are essential kitchen tools—they provide a space in which to prepare meals in an organized and hygienic way.
But storing them correctly can be somewhat of a challenge. Where do they go when not in use? How best should we keep them safe from damage? In this blog post, we’ll explore the various ways to store your cutting boards so that you can always find them quickly and easily!
There’s often no easy way to store a collection of cutting boards without taking up too much countertop space.
Luckily, there are several creative storage solutions around – this blog post will provide some helpful tips on how to store cutting boards so that they can easily be accessed when needed while at the same time keeping organized and clutter-free. Read on to learn more!
Why May You Want to Store Cutting Boards?
1. To Prevent Cross-contamination
When various types of food come into contact with cutting boards, they may leave behind bacteria that pose a health risk. Storing cutting boards separately can help to keep these foods and the associated risks separate.
2. To Maintain the Sharpness of Knives
Cutting on a hard surface like granite or marble will dull your knives quickly, while cutting on a softer surface such as wood or plastic won’t dull them as fast. Storing your cutting boards helps to protect the sharpness of your knives by keeping them away from hard surfaces.
3. To Keep Your Kitchen Organized
Storing cutting boards can help to keep your kitchen tidy and organized by providing a dedicated space for them. This will make it easier to find and access the board you need when cooking or prepping food.
10 Ideas On How To Store Cutting Boards
1. Hang Them on a Wall
One of the simplest ways to store cutting boards is by hanging them on a wall. You can purchase several sizes of specially designed racks that mount directly to the wall. The racks make it easy to store cutting boards of all shapes and sizes in one place.
2. Hang Them on a Pegboard
If you don’t have wall space, then consider using a pegboard to hang cutting boards. It’s an inexpensive way to keep them off the counter without taking up too much space. Pegboards are easy to install and can be used for a variety of kitchen accessories.
3. Use an Over-the-Door Rack
An over-the-door rack is another great way to store cutting boards without taking up space in the kitchen. The door racks come in various sizes and styles, allowing you to customize them for your specific needs.
4. Stack Them in a Cabinet
If you have cabinets with adjustable shelves, then stacking the cutting boards is an easy way to organize your kitchen. Make sure the boards are placed on their sides and use risers or separators to keep them from sliding around.
5. Use a Movable Cart
A movable cart is a great solution for storing cutting boards and other kitchen tools. The wheels make it easy to move around the room, allowing you to keep everything organized and close at hand when needed.
6. Utilize an Under-the-Sink Rack
If you don’t have a lot of counter space, then consider using an under-the-sink rack to store cutting boards. The racks come in various sizes and can easily be installed under the sink, providing plenty of storage for all your kitchen tools.
7. Hang Them on a Wall Mounted Rack
Wall-mounted racks are an excellent way to store cutting boards without taking up too much space. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, allowing you to customize them for your specific needs.
8. Hang Them on a Sliding Rail System
Sliding Rail Systems are a great way to store cutting boards in an easy-to-access manner. They attach directly to the wall and make it easy to grab a board when needed without having to unstack or unpack anything.
9. Include a Built-In Cutting Board Drawer
If you’re remodeling your kitchen, then consider adding a built-in cutting board drawer to store all your boards in one place. The drawers can be designed to fit into any existing cabinetry, making it an easy solution for keeping everything organized and out of the way.
10. Add Magnetic Strips to a Wall
If you don’t have room for a rack, then consider adding magnetic strips to your wall. The strips are easy to install and make it easy to store several cutting boards in one place without taking up any counter or cabinet space. These are just a few ideas for storing your cutting boards. With a little creativity and planning, you can find the perfect solution for keeping your kitchen organized and clutter-free.
Frequently Asked Question
What Precautions Should I Take When Storing My Cutting Boards?
When storing your cutting boards, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure that they stay clean and in good condition. To do this, make sure you: Clean them with warm soapy water or a diluted bleach solution after each use. Dry them completely before storing them, as moisture can cause them to warp.
Store them in a dry, safe place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. If possible, hang them or stack them vertically with the largest boards on the bottom to prevent warping.
Finally, if stacking them, be sure to insert an absorbent material such as parchment paper between each board for extra protection. Following these tips will help you keep your cutting boards in great condition for years to come.
Can I Store My Wooden Cutting Boards in the Refrigerator?
No, it is not recommended that you store your wooden cutting boards in the refrigerator. The cold temperatures can cause them to crack or become brittle and make them more susceptible to bacteria and other contaminants. Additionally, the moist environment can cause them to warp and make it difficult to clean them properly.
What is the Best Way to Disinfect My Cutting Boards?
The best way to disinfect your cutting boards between uses is with a diluted bleach solution made from 1 teaspoon of regular household bleach in 1 quart of water. Soak the board for 10 minutes and then rinse it with hot, soapy water.
When possible, allow the cutting board to air dry a well-ventilated area before it. If you have boards that are dishwasher safe, you can also run them through a cycle in your dishwasher to disinfect them.
Do Cutting Boards Need to Be Oiled?
Yes, it is important to oil your cutting boards regularly. You can use mineral oil, food-grade linseed oil, or beeswax for this purpose. Apply a generous amount of the oil of your choice and allow it to soak into the board for at least 15 minutes before wiping off any excess with a paper towel.
Oiling your cutting boards will help keep them looking new and provide an extra layer of protection against bacteria and other contaminants.
Do Plastic Cutting Boards Need to Be Replaced?
Yes, plastic cutting boards should be replaced every few years as they can become scratched and worn down over time, making them more prone to bacteria buildup. If you notice any deep cuts or scratches in your board, it is best to replace it as soon as possible.
Additionally, if the color of your plastic cutting board has faded significantly, this is another indicator that it should be replaced.
Can I Put my Cutting Boards in the Dishwasher?
Many wooden and plastic cutting boards are dishwasher safe as long as you check with the manufacturer’s instructions beforehand. Generally, it is best to hand-wash your cutting boards with hot, soapy water for a more thorough clean.
However, if you choose to put them in the dishwasher, be sure to use the lowest heat setting and avoid high-pressure cycles, as this could cause warping or damage to your boards.
By following these tips on how to store cutting boards, you can keep your boards in great condition for years to come. Make sure you take the necessary steps to prevent warping, cracking and contamination by cleaning them.
Conclusion
Storing your cutting boards correctly is a must for any kitchen. Investing in a good cutting board rack or holder is the best way to keep your boards organized, easy to find, and free from germs. Taking steps like these will not only add convenience to your cooking, but it will also keep your cutting boards in better condition and help them last longer.
Now you know how to store cutting boards! If you aren’t sure which board rack or holder is right for you, research and compare different options, read reviews, and talk to other home cooks who can offer advice on what they’ve used before.
With the right decisions — and maybe a bit of organization skills — you’ll be able to store your cutting boards with confidence!