Best Way to Clean Olive Wood Bowls & Keep Them Looking New

The best way to clean olive wood bowls is to wash them gently with warm water and mild soap, dry them immediately, and condition them regularly with food-safe oil. This prevents cracking, warping, and drying, keeping the wood smooth and vibrant.

Want to know what to avoid, how to remove stains and odors, and the best way to preserve your bowl’s natural beauty?

Keep reading for expert tips on proper care and maintenance.

Why Olive Wood Needs Special Care

Olive wood is naturally porous and rich in oils, making it sensitive to moisture and harsh chemicals. Dishwashers, prolonged soaking, and strong detergents can lead to cracking, warping, or drying. However, with proper maintenance, your bowl will stay smooth and vibrant.

How to Clean Olive Wood Bowls

Daily Cleaning

• Rinse with warm water and mild dish soap.
• Use a soft sponge or cloth—avoid abrasive scrubbers.
• Dry immediately with a soft towel to prevent moisture damage.

Removing Stains & Odors

• Stains: Apply a paste of baking soda and water, gently rub, rinse, and dry.
• Odors: Sprinkle coarse salt, squeeze fresh lemon juice over it, gently scrub, rinse, and dry.
• Avoid soaking to prevent warping or cracking.

Conditioning & Preserving Olive Wood

Regular conditioning prevents dryness and enhances the wood’s grain. To learn more about maintaining and protecting your bowls over time, check out our complete guide to caring for olive wood bowls.

• Use food-grade mineral oil, beeswax, or coconut oil.
• Apply a small amount to a soft cloth and rub it into the wood.
• Let it absorb for 15 minutes, then buff off excess oil.
• Condition every 1-2 months based on use.

What to Avoid

• Harsh detergents and chemicals – Strip natural oils.
• Dishwashers – Heat and prolonged water exposure can ruin the wood.
• Direct sunlight or heat sources – Can cause cracking and fading.

Storage & Everyday Maintenance

• Store olive wood bowls in a cool, dry place.
• Avoid stacking wet bowls to prevent trapped moisture.
• Use for salads, fruits, and dry foods—avoid hot liquids or foods.

Common Questions & Solutions

• Small cracks? Apply food-grade wood glue or beeswax to seal them.
• Mold or tough stains? Clean with a vinegar and water solution, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
• Can you use olive wood bowls for hot foods? Brief exposure to warm food is fine, but prolonged heat can damage the wood.

Final Thoughts