As a chef and restaurant operator, I would never put wooden spoons, boards, or bowls in a dishwasher. The heat and water not only warp the wood but also strip away protective oils, which shortens their lifespan and creates cracks where bacteria can hide. In our kitchens at Zinfandel Grille and Prelude Kitchen & Bar, we hand wash with hot soapy water, dry immediately, and condition the wood with mineral oil, which I'd also recommend for home cooks to keep the surface safe and strong.
Wooden cookware remains attractive yet it becomes completely unusable when placed inside a dishwasher. The combination of heat and detergent and steam removes natural oils from wood which results in cracks and warping that makes the wood unsafe for food preparation. The dishwasher process weakens wooden items beyond recognition while creating hidden bacterial and mold habitats that transform kitchen tools into stealthy health risks. Wood requires the most delicate form of maintenance for its protection. A quick hand wash with mild soap and warm water solution followed by immediate drying will keep your wooden items safe. The item requires placement in an open area which allows air to circulate freely. The wood requires complete avoidance of storage in moist drawers and must never stay submerged in the sink water. A periodic application of food-grade mineral oil or beeswax will provide the wood with protection and maintenance. Regular maintenance through this simple practice will preserve the wood's health and appearance while extending its lifespan. People tend to ignore the fact that wooden tools function beyond their practical uses because they contain accumulated memories. The longevity of wooden tools depends on proper care because they absorb historical value through their usage over time. When wooden items receive no maintenance they transform into dangerous objects that remain silent threats. Through proper maintenance wooden kitchen tools will maintain their partnership with you for multiple years because prevention methods work equally well as skilled craftsmanship does. Woodenware extends its lifespan when you pay attention to its tactile sensations during use. The condition of your wooden items becomes evident through touch because roughness or dryness or splintering indicates the need for oil application similar to how skin requires lotion. The most basic method to prevent damage involves checking wood through touch instead of visual inspection. Wood care requires both cleaning and the ability to detect early warning signs of stress so you can take preventive measures before damage occurs. The quiet practice of observing wood for early signs of stress enables you to transform ordinary kitchen utensils into dependable kitchen tools.