White plastic cutting boards are a staple in many kitchens. They’re lightweight, sturdy, and ideal for chopping a wide range of foods, from vegetables to meat. But one major drawback is how quickly they stain and develop lingering odors. Even with frequent washing, these boards can begin to look dull or discolored over time.
Fortunately, there’s an easy fix—one that my ma showed me years ago—and it takes almost no effort at all. If your white plastic cutting board is looking worn, this simple trick can bring it back to life.
Why White Plastic Cutting Boards Stain So Easily
The surface of plastic cutting boards is slightly porous, which means it can absorb liquids, oils, and pigments from food. Ingredients such as tomatoes, carrots, turmeric, and beets leave behind stubborn stains that ordinary soap doesn’t always remove. And if the board isn’t cleaned thoroughly, trapped residue can lead to unpleasant odors and bacterial buildup.
The Simple Cleaning Trick My Ma Swears By
This method uses just a few everyday items you likely already have in your kitchen. It’s inexpensive, quick, and requires zero scrubbing. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Baking soda – A gentle abrasive that lifts stains and neutralizes smells.
- Hydrogen peroxide – A mild bleaching agent that sanitizes and brightens surfaces.
- Dish soap – Helps break down oils and food residue.
How to Clean Your White Plastic Cutting Board (Step-by-Step)
1. Prepare Your Supplies
Gather the baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and dish soap. Make sure the cutting board is dry before starting.
2. Sprinkle Baking Soda
Lay the board flat and cover the surface with a generous layer of baking soda. This will help loosen stains and absorb odors.
3. Add Hydrogen Peroxide
Pour enough hydrogen peroxide over the baking soda to form a spreadable paste. The bubbling action begins lifting stains right away.
4. Add Dish Soap
Drizzle a few drops of dish soap onto the mixture to help break down grease and food oils.
5. Let It Sit
Walk away and let the mixture do its job for 10–15 minutes. No scrubbing—just let the ingredients work together to whiten, disinfect, and deodorize.
6. Rinse Well
After it has rested, rinse the board thoroughly with warm water. Wipe away any leftover paste with a soft sponge or cloth. You’ll see that stains have faded dramatically and odors have disappeared.
7. Dry Completely
Pat the board dry or leave it to air dry. Drying it fully prevents moisture from encouraging bacteria or mold.
Why This Method Works Wonders
- Baking soda exfoliates the surface gently and removes odors.
- Hydrogen peroxide disinfects while naturally brightening the plastic.
- Dish soap cuts through greasy residue for a deeper clean.
- Together, they create a powerful yet gentle cleaning mixture that refreshes your cutting board with minimal time and effort.
Extra Tips for Keeping Your Cutting Board Fresh
Clean after each use
A quick wash with dish soap and hot water can keep stains from settling in.
Skip abrasive scrubbers
Harsh pads can roughen the surface, making the board more likely to stain in the future. Stick to non-scratch sponges.
Sanitize regularly
Rub the board with half a lemon or spritz it with vinegar to naturally disinfect it between deeper cleanings.
Avoid the dishwasher
High heat can warp plastic cutting boards. Hand washing keeps them in better shape for longer.
Keeping your white plastic cutting boards spotless doesn’t have to be time-consuming. With my ma’s simple cleaning trick, you can banish stains, eliminate odors, and keep your board looking bright and hygienic—no heavy scrubbing required. The next time your cutting board needs a refresh, try this method and enjoy a like-new board in minutes.
