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How to sanitize cutlery: Step-by-Step

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 16, 2025

Learn how to easily sanitize cutlery with E-Cloth. Simple steps for effective, chemical-free cleaning and a safer kitchen every day.

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How to sanitize cutlery: Step-by-Step

Tools:

E-Cloth
Pot (for boiling water)
Tongs
Unscented chlorine bleach
Clean dish rack or towel

Pre-Wash Your Cutlery

Scrape off any food particles and rinse the cutlery under warm running water.
Ensure no debris remains before sanitizing.

Sanitize with Boiling Water

Fill a pot with enough water to cover all the cutlery. Bring it to a full boil.
Dip or immerse the cutlery in the boiling water for at least one minute. Use tongs to handle the hot items.
Remove the cutlery carefully and set aside to air dry on a clean dish rack or towel.

Sanitize with a Bleach Solution (Alternative)

Mix one tablespoon of unscented chlorine bleach with one gallon of water.
Soak the clean cutlery in the solution for at least one minute.
Remove the cutlery and let it air dry completely before storing.

Precautions:

Inspect for Residue

Ensure all visible food particles are removed before starting the sanitizing process.

Check Sanitizer Compatibility

Confirm that the sanitizer is safe and suitable for the type of cutlery being cleaned.

Follow Contact Time Recommendations

Adhere strictly to the sanitizer’s specified contact time for effective disinfection.

Maintain Proper Temperature

Use water and sanitizers at temperatures recommended to maximize their sanitizing power.

Avoid Cross-Contamination

Keep sanitized cutlery separate from unsanitized items and surfaces during the process.

Ensure Adequate Rinsing

Rinse thoroughly to eliminate any residual chemicals after sanitizing.

Allow Complete Drying

Let the cutlery dry completely using clean, lint-free cloths or air drying to prevent bacterial growth.

How to Correctly Sanitize The Cutlery: Extra Tips

Pre-Clean Preparation

Rinse cutlery immediately after use to remove food particles and prevent residue buildup.
Sort similar items together to streamline the sanitizing process.

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Proper Washing Technique

Wash cutlery in hot, soapy water to effectively dissolve grease and loosen food residue.
Use a brush or sponge dedicated solely for cutlery, ensuring all crevices are thoroughly cleaned.

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Effective Sanitizing Methods

Soak cutlery in a sanitizing solution such as a mix of one tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water for at least one minute.
Alternatively, use a dishwasher with a sanitizing cycle, making sure it reaches the proper temperature.

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Safe Drying and Storage

Air dry cutlery on a clean rack to avoid re-contamination from a towel.
Store in a clean, closed drawer or container where exposure to dust and moisture is minimized.

Common Mistakes When Sanitizing Cutlery

Improper Sorting of Cutlery

Avoid mixing metals: Different metals can react, causing tarnish or corrosion; separate stainless steel from silver-plated items.
Group similar shapes: Grouping similar items helps ensure each piece gets cleaned thoroughly without overcrowding.
Separate delicate items: Delicate or antique cutlery may require a gentler cleaning method than standard dishwasher cycles.

Using Harsh or Inappropriate Cleaners

Skip the abrasive tools: Steel wool or scrubbing pads can scratch surfaces; opt for soft cloths or non-scratch sponges.
Avoid over-chemical cleaning: Strong chemicals or too much bleach can damage the finish; choose milder, cutlery-safe detergents.
Read labels carefully: Not all cleaning products are suitable for all metals; check instructions to prevent unwanted reactions.

Insufficient Drying Techniques

Prevent water spots: Leaving cutlery to air dry in humid conditions can result in unsightly spots; hand dry when possible.
Avoid stacking wet pieces: Stacking cutlery right after washing traps moisture and encourages stains; separate items to allow air circulation.
Regular maintenance: Periodically polish your cutlery to restore shine and remove any minor water residue buildup.

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How Often to Sanitize Cutlery

Sanitization Frequency for Cutlery

After Each Use: In any setting where cutlery comes into contact with food, especially raw meats or items with high bacterial loads, sanitizing right after use prevents leftover residue from breeding germs and stops cross-contamination.
Daily Sanitization: If you’re not sanitizing after every use (for example, during a busy family meal), make sure to sanitize at least once daily to remove any invisible buildup that rinsing alone might not clear.
High-Traffic Situations: In environments like offices, restaurants, or communal cafeterias, it’s wise to sanitize cutlery between each user or shift to maintain a hygienic experience for everyone.
Extra Precautions When Sick: During flu season or when someone in the household is ill, increasing the frequency of sanitizing (ideally after each use) is crucial to reduce the spread of viruses and other pathogens.
Hand Washing vs. Dishwasher: When hand washing, incorporate a dedicated sanitizing step immediately after cleaning, while dishwashers with a sanitizing cycle (or high-temperature wash) should be used regularly to ensure proper disinfection.

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