Onions. We love them in soups, salads, on the grill... But let's face it - no one wants their kitchen to smell like a mortadella and onion sandwich three days after dinner. Especially not when their wooden cutting board smells like tears and lost romance every time you cut fruit. If you've ever wondered how to get rid of that rebellious smell that seems to have a lease on your board - read on.
We present to you 4 proven, natural and unusually therapeutic tricks that will help you wooden board brought back to the level of freshly sawn wood (or at least close to it).
1. Salt and lemon – a natural disinfectant duo that even a medieval pharmacy would envy
Salt – the best scrub for your board, and lemon – the citrus queen that disinfects, degreases, and cheers up.
The process is as simple as slicing bread (just watch your fingers!):
- Sprinkle the board generously with coarse sea salt. Don't skimp – this is pure detox therapy.
- Cut a lemon in half and gently but thoroughly rub the salt over the board, a bit like massaging it with lemon sorbet.
- Leave for 5–10 minutes for nature to do its thing, then rinse with hot water and pat dry like a baby after a bath.
2. Baking soda – more than just grandma’s miracle powder
If bicarbonate of soda can't solve the situation, then we should probably call an exorcist.
Make a thick paste of baking soda and water (a few drops will be enough), apply it to the board and gently scrub the surface with a sponge or soft brush. After 10 minutes, the board should regain its freshness - just rinse and dry thoroughly. Onion smell? Poof! Like your Monday at 8:00 - gone without a trace.
3. Vinegar – smells like a cleaning department, but works like a miracle
Alcoholic vinegar or apple cider vinegar – depending on what you prefer in your pantry.
Soak a cloth in vinegar and wipe down the board. No fuss. Let the onion smell dissipate for a few minutes (and indulge in some sour aromatherapy), then rinse with water. And yes, you can now cut strawberries again without tasting the onion!
4. Water = friend of hygiene, but enemy of wood
If there's one thing a wooden board can't handle, it's getting wet. Always dry it thoroughly after washing it - preferably with a towel and then let it air dry for a few minutes.
And a bonus tip for everyone – oil it regularly! Mineral oil for boards or coconut oil not only protects the wood, but also acts as a natural barrier against unpleasant odors.
Conclusion
Onion – one, board – zero. With the above tricks, you will easily win the battle against odors. And if anyone still doubts that nature is the most powerful cleaner – invite them to rub a lemon on the board. And we will see who has the last word.
