Can a wooden bowl that has an unpleasant build up and/or a rancid smell be saved?
Yes, a wood bowl can be revived by using a non-abrasive scrub pad, lemon juice, and pumice dust to remove the oil build up that has probably occurred over many years of use. This build up is likely caused by the use of a vegetable based oil or lard to preserve the bowl. Unfortunately using vegetable oil creates a breeding ground for bacteria, which then builds up and becomes gummy or tacky to the touch. In most cases using the pumice and lemon juice will safely remove the old layers of vegetable oil and the smell. It will probably take more than one application of lemon juice and pumice to do the job. Once the old oil layers are removed, clean the bowl with warm water and a mild soap and hand dry. When the bowl is completely clean and dry apply a coat of B’s Oil Salad Bowl & Wood Preserver to properly preserve your bowl.
