A board should be cleaned and dried using instructions appropriate to its material. Drying access matters as well as washing. A board stored damp can warp, develop odors or stay wet in the slot where it lives.
What to do
Read whether the board is dishwasher-approved, follow its cleaning process and allow the surfaces to dry as directed. Store without trapping moisture against another item.
After washing, wipe off surface water with a clean towel and then let the board stand so air reaches both faces.
Drying by material
- Wood and bamboo: usually wash by hand, towel dry and stand on edge. Avoid long soaks, and follow the maker’s advice on oiling.
- Plastic: often tolerates a dishwasher if the maker says so, but still dry it fully before storing.
- Composite materials: follow the maker’s guidance, as dishwasher and heat limits differ.
- Boards with rubber or silicone feet: check that water does not collect where the feet attach.
When unsure, hand washing and thorough drying is the gentlest option for any board.
A mistake to avoid
Do not assume a wooden board follows the same routine as a plastic one. The manufacturer’s material-specific guidance decides.
Laying a wet board flat on the counter traps moisture underneath and can lead to warping, so lift it or stand it up.
A detail worth checking
Include handles, grooves and feet in the drying check. Small recesses can retain moisture after the main flat faces appear ready to put away.
Run a dry cloth along the groove and around any handle hole. Tilt the board to let trapped water run out.
Try this practical check
Check your current drying location and storage slot. Identify whether both board faces can complete the approved drying routine before enclosed storage.
Press a dry paper towel against each face and recess. If it comes away damp, the board needs longer before it goes away.
Common questions
Can I dry a board by the heater or in the sun?
Avoid strong heat, which may cause warping or cracking, especially in wood. Air drying at room temperature is gentler.
How do I stop my board smelling?
Wash it promptly after use and dry it fully. Check the maker’s guidance for approved ways to deal with lingering odors.
Should I stand the board upright or lay it flat?
Standing it on its edge lets air reach both faces. If you lay it flat, raise it on a rack so air can circulate underneath.
Related reading
6 Best Cutting Boards: Wood, Plastic and Composite (2026)
