I love my wooden spoons and spatulas. Some were handed down from my grandmother's kitchen and others were recent, thoughtful gifts. Every few months, when the wood begins to dry out and the spoons look dull and over-used, I take the time to coat them in oil. Oiling wooden utensils helps to protect them from splitting or absorbing ingredients, as well as giving them a beautiful glow and a soft feeling in your hand.
dry wooden spoons waiting for some tender loving care
Much has been written about oiling wooden spoons, and while the general consensus is to use mineral oil instead of cooking oil, I choose to use olive oil for the job because it isn't made from petroleum products and it's already sitting on my counter, ready to use. I have also used coconut oil, though I live in a cold climate where coconut oil solidifies most of the year, so it is easier to use olive oil on my wooden spoons. I have also heard good things about using walnut oil because it dries like linseed oil and protects the wood better, so you might want to try that if you have some in your kitchen already. Otherwise, just use olive oil.
To oil, simply drizzle a small amount of olive oil on your spoon and rub in with your hands. Once the oil has soaked into the wood, you can wipe the extra oil off the spoon and rinse if you want to, though I usually just put them away. Sometimes I let the spoon sit for a few minutes and then add a second layer of oil.
spoons oiled and ready for another few months of cooking
Beyond oiling, I give my wooden spoons very little special care, although I use them all the time. I don't put them through the dishwasher (because I don't have a dishwasher), and I don't leave them soaking in water in the sink overnight. Just use, soak briefly if needed, wash and air dry -- simple!
