Most people know that wooden plates can't be washed in the dishwasher, but you shouldn't wash them by hand with hot water either.
While wood can be a fairly durable material, you can only keep it safe with proper care.
That's how hot water can damage it.
Warping and Cracking
Exposing wooden dishes to hot water can cause them to warp, crack, or split.
Wood is a natural material that is sensitive to temperature changes and moisture.
The rapid expansion and contraction caused by hot water can compromise the structural integrity of the wood, leading to damage or deformities.
Loss of Finish or Coating
Many wooden dishes are treated with finishes or coatings, such as food-grade oils or sealants, to protect and preserve the wood.
Hot water can strip away these protective layers, leaving the wood more susceptible to staining, absorption of odors, and potential food contamination.
Bacterial Growth
Hot water can open up the wood's pores, creating an environment that is conducive to bacterial growth.
Bacteria can penetrate the wood fibers, making it difficult to thoroughly clean and sanitize the wooden dishes.
Damage to Adhesive or Glue
Wooden dishes, especially those with multiple components or assembled pieces, may contain adhesive or glue to hold them together.
Exposing these areas to hot water can weaken or dissolve the adhesive, causing the wooden dish to come apart or lose stability.
