Woodware

Woodware is a category of household and kitchen items made from wood. It includes utensils such as spoons, forks, spatulas, ladles, and chopsticks; cutting boards; bowls; serving vessels; rolling pins; mortars and pestles; trivets; and various time-honored kitchen tools used in food preparation and dining. The term emphasizes the material rather than design.

Common woods used for woodware include beech, maple, birch, olive wood, cherry, and walnut, with bamboo being popular in many regions (though technically a grass). Finishes are typically food-safe oils or waxes, or items may be sold unfinished to allow for personal maintenance. Woodware ranges from mass-produced pieces to handcrafted, heirloom items.

Historically, woodware has been used across cultures due to the availability of timber and its workability. In contemporary kitchens, wooden utensils are valued for their warmth, light weight, and gentleness on cookware and knives. They are also appreciated for their insulative properties, which help prevent heat damage to hands and surfaces. However, woodware requires care to maintain its condition and longevity.

Care and maintenance guidelines commonly include washing by hand with mild soap and water, drying promptly, and applying mineral oil or a compatible conditioner periodically to prevent drying and cracking. It is usually recommended to avoid dishwasher cycles and to store woodware in a dry environment to prevent warping or mold growth. With proper care, wooden items can last for many years and age gracefully.