How to Clean Wooden Pallets: 7 Safe Products and Methods

Even if your company has strict hygiene standards, your wooden pallets can get dirty. So, you need to learn how to clean wooden pallets properly.

Wooden pallets can harbor dirt, bacteria, mold, and other contaminants, especially if they are used to transport food or other sensitive goods.

Dirt and moisture can cause the wood to rot or decay over time. Cleaning helps to preserve the wood and extend the pallet’s lifespan.

But you shouldn’t do just any type of cleaning or use just any product you can grab from your cleaning station.

Let us talk about the safe products you can use to clean wooden pallets, and how to do it.

How to Clean Wooden Pallets Using 7 Safe Products

Pallets are often used in warehouses, distribution centers, and trucks, where they can pick up dust and dirt from the ground and surrounding environment.

Moreover, those stored outside are exposed to rain, snow, wind, and sun, which could lead to dirt, mud, and water damage.

If you neglect to clean wooden pallets, it can result in health hazards, damage to products, regulatory non-compliance, and decreased operational efficiency.

Your business will deal with significant loss. Before it happens, learn how to clean wooden pallets below!

1. Stiff Scrubbers

Stiff scrubbers, such as stiff-bristled brushes, are effective for scrubbing off tough dirt and grime from wooden pallets.

The bristles help reach into the grooves and cracks of the wood, dislodging and removing debris that has accumulated over time.

Cleaning wooden pallets in this way means you don’t need to use harsh chemicals that could potentially damage the wood.

The key is to use a brush with stiff but not too abrasive bristles to avoid scratching the wood surface.

How to Clean Wooden Pallets With Stiff Scrubbers

Lay down a tarp or work in an area where it’s okay to get a bit dirty.
Use the stiff brush to dry scrub the pallet to remove loose dirt and debris.
Dampen the brush with water and scrub the pallet again. This helps to lift dirt that has settled into the wood.
Rinse the pallet with a hose or a bucket of water to remove the dislodged dirt.
Allow the pallet to air dry completely to prevent any moisture damage or mold growth.

How to Clean Wooden Pallets: Safe Products and Procedure

2. Mild Detergent Solution

A mild detergent mixed with warm water creates a gentle cleaning solution that can effectively break down grease and grime on the wood.

It is formulated to be gentle enough for delicate surfaces, so they are ideal for wooden pallets. It can clean without stripping the wood’s natural oils.

How to Clean Wooden Pallets With Mild Detergent Solution

In a bucket, mix a few drops of mild dish detergent with warm water.
Dip a soft-bristle brush or sponge into the solution and scrub the wood. Work in small sections.
Rinse each section with clean water immediately after scrubbing to prevent the detergent from drying on the wood.
Wipe down the pallet with a clean, dry cloth and let it air dry completely.

3. White Vinegar

White vinegar is a natural cleaner with disinfecting properties. Its acidity helps to cut through grime and can also neutralize odors.

It is non-toxic, biodegradable, and safe for use around children and pets. It’s gentle on wood and won’t strip away the natural oils or cause discoloration.

How to Clean Wooden Pallets With White Vinegar

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Spray the solution generously onto the pallet. Focus on any particularly dirty areas.
Use a soft-bristle brush to scrub the wood to lift dirt and grime.
Rinse with clean water to remove any remaining vinegar solution.
Clean the pallet with a clean cloth and allow it to air dry fully.

4. Baking Soda

Baking soda is a mild abrasive that helps to scrub away stains and neutralize odors on wooden pallets. It removes stubborn spots without damaging the wood surface.

How to Clean Wooden Pallets With Baking Soda

Sprinkle baking soda directly onto any stains or smelly areas of the pallet.
Use a damp sponge or soft-bristle brush to scrub the baking soda into the wood.
For tough stains, let the baking soda sit on the wood for 10-15 minutes.
Rinse with clean water to remove the baking soda.
Use a clean cloth to wipe the pallet and leave it to air dry.

5. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a disinfectant that can help remove stains and kill bacteria on wooden pallets. It’s useful for those that have been exposed to contaminants.

However, it is not advisable to use pure hydrogen peroxide as it is harmful in that state, both to the wooden pallets and the people who may be exposed to it.

When diluted to 3%, it is a safe and effective cleaner. It breaks down into water and oxygen, so it doesn’t leave any harmful residues.

How to Clean Wooden Pallets With Hydrogen Peroxide

Pour 3% hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle and apply it to the wood surface.
Use a soft-bristle brush to scrub the wood gently.
Allow the hydrogen peroxide to sit on the wood for a few minutes to disinfect and break down stains.
Rinse with clean water to remove any remaining hydrogen peroxide.
Wipe down with a clean cloth and let the pallet air dry completely.

6. Mineral Spirits

Mineral spirits are effective for removing tough, oily stains and residues from wooden pallets. They dissolve grease and grime easily.

But they should be used in a well-ventilated area with proper safety gear, such as gloves, because they can be a bit harsh.

How to Clean Wooden Pallets With Mineral Spirits

Dampen a clean cloth with mineral spirits.
Wipe down the stained or greasy areas of the pallet, using gentle pressure to lift the stains.
If needed, rinse the area with a damp cloth to remove any remaining mineral spirits.
Let the pallet air dry in a well-ventilated area.

7. Wood Cleaning Products

There are commercial products specifically formulated to clean wood without damaging it. They can remove dirt, grime, and stains effectively while also conditioning the wood.

You can buy them from home improvement stores, supermarkets, online retailers, specialty cleaning stores, furniture stores, and department stores.

How to Clean Wooden Pallets With Wood Cleaning Products

Select a wood cleaner appropriate for your type of wood. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing and application.
Use a cloth or sponge to apply the wood cleaner to the pallet.
Gently scrub the wood with a soft-bristle brush to remove dirt and grime.
Some wood cleaners might require rinsing. Check the product instructions.
Wipe down with a clean cloth and let the pallet air dry completely.