Tips & Tricks: wood product maintenance

triangle produces in Germany and would like to set an example for environmental protection with sustainable products: Tools made from real wood. Since wood is a renewable raw material and binds carbon over a long period of time, it is environmentally friendly and good for the climate. In addition, wood is not only durable, it is also unique and changeable. Cherry, nut, plum or ash. Each piece is unique!

The only question is: how do you properly care for your wood products? We show tips and tricks so that the treasures made of wood last a lifetime!

Donts

x No Dishwasher

When things have to go fast, some people put everything into the dishwasher. But stop! This is an absolute no-go for wood. The few minutes should be taken because the dishwasher is a real killer for wooden products: wood dries out in the dishwasher because its pores open. It swells when it is damp and heat even accelerates this process. Due to the swelling and then shrinking again, cracks appear, into which dirt can penetrate. Furthermore, the dimensions change. Uneven swelling also leads to loss of shape and warping. In any case, wood loses its oils and its antiseptic characteristics in the dishwasher. Besides, it is a myth that products made of wood are not hygienic. On the contrary: the survivability of bacteria on plastic is greater than on wood.

x Do not soak

After using it do you put the wooden tool in the sink and let it soak for a while? Don’t do that! The dampness enters into the cells of the wood layer and can therefore bleach it.

x No aggressive cleaning agents

Since wood is very sensitive, you should not use aggressive cleaning agents and detergents or scratchy sponges for cleaning.

Dos

♥ Handwash

Please do not clean with too hot water. Only rinse briefly under running water and, depending on your preference, do not use any dishwashing liquids at all. It is important to moisten the front and the back of the product so that there is no tension when it dries.

♥ Let it dry properly

After rinsing, let the product dry upright and only put it back in the cupboard when it is completely dry.

♥ Oiling

Play it safe: occasionally lubricate a thin layer of linseed oil, let it dry briefly, rub off the excess. This intensifies the color and prevents stains from entering food juices. Attention: make sure that the product is dry and dust-free before oiling!

♥ Possibly: sanding

Wooden boards wear out over the years, especially if you work with sharp knives. This certainly has its charm! If it becomes too much, for example on a cutting board, the surface can be sanded down and then oiled again. With smooth boards you can take do it on your own, with others it is better to leave the work to the carpenter you trust!