Our bamboo dish brushes and other wood products are an excellent alternative to plastic brushes and other non-biodegradable materials that contribute to environmental pollution. If you have recently switched to our bamboo or wood dish brushes, you may be wondering how to take care of them to keep them in top shape so they last longer. Here are some tips on how to care for your bamboo dish brushes and other wood products like cutting boards, wood utensils, soap dishes, and more.
Keep them dry. Even though, bamboo has natural antimicrobial properties, it is still important to clean and maintain bamboo products properly to ensure they remain clean and free of bacteria growth. Bamboo and wood are natural materials that can absorb moisture, which can lead to mold and bacteria. To prevent this, always ensure that your bamboo dish brushes and products are kept dry after use. Shake off excess water and leave them in a dry, well-ventilated area to air dry completely in between uses. We like to either hang them or lay them out on a dry towel (Swedish dishcloths work well for this too!) For our modular brushes, we recommend occasionally unscrewing and allowing the individual portions to completely dry out.
Cracking is perfectly normal for wood brushes. It is a natural sign of aging caused by exposure to water and will not adversely affect the performance of your brush. You can oil or wax your brushes to reduce the potential of cracking. More on that later..
*A note about wood patina! Wood patina is the change in appearance that occurs in wood over time due to natural aging, exposure to light, air, and moisture. It is a natural process that creates a unique, aged look that many people find appealing. Wood that is exposed to moisture may darken and develop a weathered look. This darker color is completely natural and often mistaken for mold on wood or bamboo dish brushes.
Clean them regularly. Bamboo dish brushes and products should be cleaned regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria. Use mild soap and warm water to clean them thoroughly, and rinse them with clean water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the bamboo.
Avoid soaking them. Do not soak your bamboo dish brushes and products in water for extended periods, as this can cause the bamboo to swell and crack. This also means, no putting these items in the dishwasher! Instead, use them to clean dishes and other items, and then rinse them clean before allowing them to dry. You can, however, soak just the bristles in vinegar to periodically sanitize.
Wax them occasionally. Bamboo can dry out and crack over time if not properly maintained. To prevent this, we recommend using a wood wax which provides a natural barrier to wooden brushes, hairbrushes, cutting boards, wooden soap dishes, etc. It absorbs into the wood to seal the surface keeping moisture out and elongating the life of your wood or bamboo products.
Replace them when necessary. Bamboo dish brushes and products are durable and long-lasting, but they will eventually wear out with regular use. When you notice signs of wear and tear, such as falling out bristles or flattened, tired bristles, it's time to replace them with a new one. Crush + compost the old one or bury in your garden.
In conclusion, caring for your bamboo dish brushes and products is simple and straightforward. Keep them dry, clean them regularly, avoid soaking them, wax them occasionally, and replace them when necessary. By following these tips, you can ensure that your bamboo dish brushes and wooden products last for a long time and continue to be a sustainable and eco-friendly choice for your home.
