How to Clean Pod Wood Bowls

Natural saman or acacia wood bowls, also called monkey pod bowls, come in a wide range of sizes and shapes. The woods offer natural density, which helps to combat staining. Both types of wood are hardwoods that have a resinous texture.

A slice of fresh lemon will remove odors from a wood pod bowl.

A little cleaning care will make the pod bowl last for many years so that it can be passed down from generation to generation as a family heirloom.

Things You Will Need

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• Mild dish soap
• Chlorine bleach
• Lemon
• Towel
• Rag
• Food-grade mineral oil (paraffin), walnut oil or vegetable oil

Tip

If the wood pod bowl smells bad from onions, garlic or other odorous foods, wipe the bowl's interior using a slice of lemon and allow it to air dry. Vegetable oil can turn rancid over time when applied to wood bowls but is not a health danger.

Warning

Never place a wood pod bowl in the dishwasher. They are not dishwasher-safe and will quickly be destroyed or warped by the dishwasher's high temperatures.

1. Wipe the wood pod bowl immediately after use. Be careful to remove all food particles that may dry onto and ruin the finish of the wood.

2. Wash the wood pod bowl by hand using a mild dish detergent and lukewarm water. Dry the pod bowl with a hand towel and then allow it to air dry completely before putting the bowl away.

3. Mix 1/4 cup of chlorine bleach with 1 quart of lukewarm water to remove any stains. Pod wood bowls rarely stain, but berries or other acidic substances may leave a discoloration. Wipe the area with a damp cloth dipped in the solution. Rinse the bowl completely with warm water after the the stain is removed. Dry the bowl with a towel and then allow it to further air dry before putting it away.

4. Coat the wood with a food-grade mineral oil (paraffin), walnut oil or simple vegetable oil occasionally to help the wood retain its clean appearance and texture, according to the U.S. Forest Service. Dip a rag in the oil and lightly rub the oil into the wood using a circular motion.

The Drip Cap

• Natural saman or acacia wood bowls, also called monkey pod bowls, come in a wide range of sizes and shapes.
  
• The woods offer natural density, which helps to combat staining.
  
• Wash the wood pod bowl by hand using a mild dish detergent and lukewarm water.
  
• Dry the bowl with a towel and then allow it to further air dry before putting it away.