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How to Get Rid of Smell in Cutting Board: Step-by-Step Guide

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 19, 2025

Eliminate cutting board odors easily with this simple, effective guide using E-Cloth for a fresh, clean kitchen every time.

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How to Get Rid of Smell in Cutting Board

Tools:

- E-Cloth
- Coarse salt
- Fresh lemon
- Hot water
- Drying rack (or well-ventilated spot)

Prepare the Cutting Board

Scrape off any remaining food debris from the board.
Rinse the board under hot water to wash away loose particles.

Scrub with Natural Deodorizers

Evenly sprinkle a generous amount of coarse salt over the board – it acts as a gentle abrasive.
Cut a fresh lemon in half, squeeze out the juice over the board, and use the lemon half to scrub the surface.
Allow the salt-lemon mixture to sit for a few minutes to neutralize lingering odors.

Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse the board with hot water to remove all traces of salt and lemon.
Ensure that no residue is left behind which could affect the taste of food next time.

Air Dry Completely

Place the cutting board upside down on a drying rack or in a well-ventilated spot to let it dry completely.
If possible, let it sun-dry; sunlight helps further eliminate any remaining odor.

Safety Precautions

Always use hot water with care to avoid burns—test temperature before rinsing.
Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin or cuts, as lemon juice and salt can cause irritation or stinging.
Do not soak wooden boards in water, as prolonged exposure can cause warping or cracking.
Ensure the board is fully dry before storing to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
Clean and disinfect your sink and tools after use to avoid cross-contamination.

How to Maintain Cleanliness How to Get Rid of Smell in Cutting Board: Extra Tips

Regular Cleaning Routine

Rinse Immediately: After each use, scrub your cutting board with hot soapy water to remove food particles.
Dry Completely: Allow the board to air dry fully to avoid any moisture that might cause odors or bacterial growth.
Weekly Wash: Give your board a more thorough wash once a week using a mixture of water and a drop of vinegar to keep smells at bay.

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Natural Odor Removal Methods

Baking Soda Scrub: Sprinkle baking soda on the board, scrub with a damp sponge, and rinse thoroughly to eliminate odors.
Lemon Refresh: Rub a cut lemon over the surface, letting the citrus oils penetrate the wood or plastic to neutralize smells.
Salt Treatment: For stubborn smells, sprinkle coarse salt and scrub with half a lemon to create an extra abrasive cleaning action.

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Deep Cleaning Strategies

Hydrogen Peroxide: Occasionally, pour a small amount of hydrogen peroxide on the board, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse for a deep clean.
Sun Drying: Leave the board in direct sunlight for a few hours to naturally disinfect and freshen it up with UV light.
Vinegar Soak: Soak the board in a solution of white vinegar and water for 10 minutes to help break down stubborn odors.

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Preventive Measures for Future Smells

Separate Cutting Boards: Use different boards for raw meats and produce to prevent cross-contamination and lingering odors.
Sand and Reseal: For wooden boards, sand lightly and apply food-safe mineral oil every few months to close up any grooves that trap odors.
Regular Inspections: Check for deep grooves or cracks where bacteria can hide; consider replacing boards if they become difficult to clean.

Common Mistakes When Cleaning How to Get Rid of Smell in Cutting Board

Overlooking High-Touch Areas

Focus on cleaning frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls to prevent germs from building up.
Avoid routine cleaning that only targets visible surfaces; remember that hidden hotspots can transfer dirt and bacteria.

Mistreating Surfaces with Harsh Cleaners

Match your cleaning products with the specific surfaces you’re treating to avoid damage and discoloration.
Read labels and instructions; sometimes a gentle soap and water solution works better than a strong chemical.

Neglecting Regular Maintenance

Establish a regular cleaning schedule to prevent buildup, rather than waiting until dirt becomes overwhelming.
Break tasks into smaller, more manageable routines to maintain control and avoid feeling swamped.

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How Often to Clean How to Get Rid of Smell in Cutting Board

Recommended Frequency for Cleaning Your Cutting Board

After Each Use: Immediately after working with foods that leave a strong odor (like garlic, onions, or fish), give your cutting board a quick clean. This prevents residual food particles from binding to the board and developing a persistent smell.
Daily for Regular Use: If you use your cutting board multiple times a day, a quick clean after each session is ideal—especially when switching between different food types. This routine helps avoid the buildup of bacteria and odors over time.
Weekly Deep Clean: Even with post-use cleaning, a once-a-week deep clean (using methods appropriate for your board material) is advisable to remove any entrenched residues that might not show up after a quick rinse. This ensures thorough odor control and maintains hygiene.
Why This Frequency? Consistent cleaning after every use stops odors from becoming embedded in the board’s surface. Quick, frequent cleaning reduces the risk of cross-contamination, maintains the board’s lifespan, and keeps your workspace fresh.

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