Equipment Care

The Equipment Care section covers the upkeep of the tools that live in your kitchen, from cutting boards and oven racks to food processors and blenders. Good care extends the life of your equipment, keeps food safe, and often saves money compared with replacing worn-out gear. When choosing what to read, start with the task that matches the problem you're facing. If you own wooden or bamboo boards and want to know how to keep them from drying out and cracking, begin with the guide to cutting board oils, which explains what to look for in a food-safe finish and how often to reapply it. If your oven racks are coated with baked-on grease or you're unsure how to handle the temperature probe, the oven rack and probe maintenance article walks through cleaning methods that protect the surfaces. For small appliances with blades and motors, the food processor and blender guide focuses on safe disassembly, cleaning the blades without injury, and keeping the base free of moisture. Reading these in order of how often you use each item will give you the most practical benefit right away.

Start here

• 26 Best Cutting Board Oil

Guides & tips

• How to Clean and Maintain Oven Racks and Probes
• How to Clean a Food Processor and Blender Safely

Frequently asked questions

Which article should I read first?

Start with the one covering the item you use most often, since daily-use equipment usually benefits most from correct care. Cutting board oil and food processor cleaning are both common starting points.

How often should I do this kind of maintenance?

It depends on the item and how heavily you use it. Most guides in this section suggest a light routine after each use and a deeper cleaning or treatment on a periodic schedule.

Is it safe to clean these items in the dishwasher?

Not always. Wooden boards, some blade assemblies, and certain coated surfaces can be damaged by dishwashers, so check the manufacturer's instructions and the relevant article before deciding.