Cutting boards are a helpful gadget and are used in almost every kitchen. They come in different sizes and shapes, so users can pick something to match their personal preferences. The search can be confusing if you are looking for a bamboo cutting board. This is why we have created a detailed buying guide that covers all the essential information you may need to make a successful purchase.
Perks of Using a Bamboo Cutting Board
You may have heard bamboo cutting board owners praising this item and assuring its long-lasting quality. Once you get your hands on one, it will be impossible for you to shift to other boards. While it’s impractical to list the unlimited benefits of these boards, the following list will provide an outline of their features:
Aesthetics
Bamboo is naturally fine and light-colored. Many people add bamboo cutting boards to enhance their kitchen's beauty and make it look more presentable. Stains or residues of ingredients like tomatoes or chicken also don't stick to the bamboo. They are easily removable without damaging the board’s natural texture. Most have two-toned cross-sectional designs imprinted on them, so they don't look dull or bland either.
Long use
A rigid bamboo cutting board is comparable to steel ones. It is more resilient than plastics against unnecessary knife cuts or scratches. These boards will last for a couple of years and would provide an ideal base for every sort of cutting or slicing.
Portable
Bamboo cutting boards are light enough to be handled by kids and they don’t strain the hands of older people. A lightweight cutting board is also easily transported from one place to another, making it quite handy and portable.
Waterproof
Bamboo cutting boards are non-porous and don't readily absorb water. This secures their texture and makes them less exposed to cracks and warps. You can use them for a long time without worrying about any change in quality.
Low maintenance
Much care and maintenance are not required for bamboo cutting boards, unlike other boards. Because they're tough against odors and gashes, any cutting materials attached to them can be easily removed in a single wash. It will not leave any odor behind.
Affordable
Bamboo cutting boards are way more affordable than wooden ones and can cost as little as $5. These boards can fit anybody's choice and budget. If you can't get fancier models, grab a basic one, and it will do just fine.
Eco-friendly
This world is constantly fighting a battle against environmental pollution, and bamboo cutting boards are a simple replacement for plastic boards. Bamboo is a natural resource and is considered environment-friendly since it is transformed into cutting boards without any prominent use of chemicals or fertilizers.
Things to Consider When Purchasing a Bamboo Cutting Board
Here is a list of things you must remember when buying a bamboo cutting board:
Color
You can choose the color and bamboo design imprinted depending on what appeals to you or according to the color scheme of your entire kitchen. It will indeed prove to add to the kitchen’s overview.
Size
Another essential factor to consider is the size of your board. You can select a bamboo cutting board according to the purpose you want it for. Also, keep in mind the size of your shelves when purchasing the board, because an oversized board will make storing it inconvenient.
Material
You need to buy a cutting board that speaks of its quality and proves to be light in nature. Many sellers out there are disposing of their fake wooden cutting boards in the name of bamboo cutting boards. At the same time, there is a substantial, visible difference between the durability of both.
Different Grain Types of Bamboo Cutting Boards
Bamboo cutting boards are also diversified in their types, depending upon the grain type from which they're made initially. Vertical, flat and end grains are the three main variations.
Vertical grains
When the bamboo is split from the pole sides, there can be vertical grains. Vertical grains are initially one-fourth inch wide, and length can vary according to the bamboo cutting boards.
Flat grains
Bamboo's main face consists of flat grains, which makes the width almost one-fifth an inch for bamboo boards.
End grains
The cross-sectional side of a bamboo grain has most of the end grains incorporated. The length of such grains varies from size to size, depending upon the bamboo pole length.
How to Clean a Bamboo Cutting Board
Bamboo cutting boards are easy to maintain, but they need extra care and attention to avoid retaining odor from raw food. To clean your cutting board, you need to:
Scrape
Scrape off any excess leftovers and pieces of food after it has been used. Store or discard them as needed.
Scrub
Use the soft side of your sponge after drenching it in citrus-based dishwashing soap or liquid. Keep rinsing until the aroma of the dishwasher takes over. You can also use vinegar in the solution but make sure to use a minimal quantity.
Rinse
After this, use hot water to remove the soap. If any odor persists, repeat the process. Avoid placing your bamboo cutting board in a dishwasher.