Wooden vs. Plastic Cutting Boards: Which Are Better?

Modern kitchens use both wooden and plastic cutting boards. Which is better? To answer this question, consider the following points.

1. Hygiene

Wooden cutting boards are porous, making them easier for bacteria to penetrate. However, bacteria don't develop or multiply on a wooden cutting board. A plastic cutting board's surface is nonporous, so bacteria don't remain after washing. In this regard, a plastic cutting board is better. However, knife marks remain on a wooden cutting board after use. These marks also remain on a plastic cutting board. However, scratches and cuts on a wooden cutting board heal over time, while on a plastic cutting board they don't, so bacteria can start to multiply in them.

2. Service life

Wooden cutting boards last longer than plastic ones. It's recommended to replace plastic ones periodically, as scratches can make them difficult to work with. Wooden cutting boards can be used indefinitely. Just remember not to soak them in water, as this can warp the wood.

3. Appearance

Modern cutting boards are all very beautiful. Plastic ones are especially good. They come in a wide range of colors, sizes, and shapes. Plastic boards are lightweight and look more elegant than wooden ones.

4. Washing

When it comes to cleaning cutting boards, wooden ones have the upper hand. The problem is that scratches and cuts on plastic cutting boards make them difficult to clean. However, plastic cutting boards can be soaked in the dishwasher, which can't be said for wooden ones. However, to rid cutting boards of bacteria, they need to be soaked in hot water at least occasionally, and this is where plastic cutting boards come into their own.

5. Cost

When working with a wooden cutting board, knives don't dull, so you won't have to sharpen them or buy new ones. Since plastic is a denser material than wood, knives will dull very often. Therefore, even if you save money on a plastic cutting board, you'll still have to spend money on knives later. In any case, many find the prices of plastic cutting boards much more attractive than those of wooden ones.

As you can see, both plastic and wooden cutting boards have many advantages and disadvantages. If you're obsessed with maintaining kitchen hygiene, consider keeping four cutting boards instead of one: one for chicken, red meat, fish, and fruit and vegetables. This will ensure that your cutting boards don't contaminate your food. The material you use for your cutting boards depends on your preference.