Let’s be honest — trying to wash a spoon without splashing water everywhere can feel like an impossible task. You rinse it under the tap, and boom! Water sprays in every direction. Whether it’s your shirt getting wet or your countertop turning into a splash zone, it’s a small annoyance that adds up. But don’t worry — I’m gonna walk you through the best ways to wash a spoon like a pro, without making a mess.
Why Does Washing a Spoon Cause Splashing?
Let me explain why this even happens in the first place.
When water hits the curved surface of a spoon, it reflects the stream and sends it flying in random directions. It’s not just the shape — it’s the angle, the water pressure, and even how you’re holding the spoon.
Some common causes of spoon splashes:
- Holding the spoon under running water at the wrong angle
- Using high water pressure
- Not letting the water flow along the spoon’s surface
- Rinsing too quickly or aggressively
This sounds like a small issue, but it can be frustrating, especially if you’re washing a bunch of utensils or prepping in a hurry.
Best Techniques to Wash a Spoon Without Splashing
Now that you know the why, let’s talk about how to wash a spoon without splashing like a kitchen ninja.
Adjust the Angle of the Spoon
Here’s the trick I swear by — it’s all about angles.
Hold the spoon at a slight tilt under the faucet so that the water flows along the curve instead of hitting it straight on. Think of the spoon like a little slide. You want the water to glide over it, not smack into it like a wall.
This tiny change in position makes a big difference in where the water goes.
Turn Down the Water Pressure
High pressure may feel like it gets things done faster, but it’s also the main reason behind all that splashy chaos.
- Turn the tap down to a gentle stream
- Make sure it’s steady but not forceful
It’s kinda like brushing your teeth — you don’t need a fire hose to get the job done.
Use a Sponge or Scrubber First
Instead of going straight under the tap, use a sponge or scrubber with dish soap to wipe off food and residue first.
Then rinse slowly. This way, the spoon is already clean when it goes under water, and you’re not scrubbing aggressively while it’s under the faucet — which usually causes splashes.
Quick tip: If you’re using a sponge, rinse it a bit before cleaning the spoon so it’s damp and easier to lather.
Use the Sink Bowl Instead of Running Tap
If you’re washing a lot of spoons or utensils, fill up the sink or a small bowl with warm, soapy water.
- Dunk the spoon and clean it inside the bowl
- Rinse briefly under a low-pressure stream to finish
This method reduces water waste and minimizes splashing. Plus, it’s great for batch cleaning.
Step-by-Step Guide: Wash a Spoon Without Splashing
Let me break it down into a super simple step-by-step guide for you.
Step 1: Pre-Rinse (Optional)
If the spoon has something sticky like honey or sauce, rinse it briefly under low-pressure water while holding it at an angle.
Step 2: Apply Dish Soap with a Sponge
Rub the sponge gently along the spoon’s surface, making sure you get the curved bowl and the handle too.
Step 3: Rinse at the Right Angle
Now comes the important part. Hold the spoon facing down and tilted slightly so that water flows from the handle end to the tip, gliding off smoothly.
Step 4: Shake Gently to Remove Excess Water
Once rinsed, give the spoon a gentle shake into the sink or tap edge to avoid dripping all over your counter.
What Not to Do When Washing a Spoon
I’ve tried it all — here’s what to avoid if you don’t want to end up mopping the kitchen floor.
- Don’t rinse with the spoon facing upwards. That’s the biggest splash creator.
- Don’t use boiling water directly under the tap. It creates steam and splashes fast.
- Don’t press too hard with the sponge under running water — this bounces water off.
Other Utensils That Splash Like a Spoon (and What to Do)
This isn’t just about spoons. There are a few other culprits in the utensil drawer.
Splash-prone utensils:
- Ladles
- Soup spoons
- Teaspoons
- Serving spoons
For these, the same rules apply: lower pressure, right angle, sponge clean first.
Why Drying Matters Too
Once your spoon is clean, drying it properly helps prevent those tiny droplets from becoming a mess on your counter or dish rack.
Here’s what I usually do:
- Wipe it with a clean microfiber towel
- Or leave it on a drying rack angled downwards
Avoid standing it upright in a cup — that’s a fast track to water pooling and potential bacteria buildup.
Make It a Habit — Splash-Free Kitchen
Learning how to wash a spoon without splashing might seem like a minor kitchen skill, but it actually saves time, keeps your space cleaner, and makes doing dishes way less annoying.
Once you get used to it, you’ll never want to go back to the messy way again. And hey, your shirt will thank you too.
Got Questions?
- Have you tried this method before? Did it work for you?
- What’s your go-to trick for keeping your kitchen splash-free?
- Want tips for other tricky utensils too?
Drop your thoughts below — I’d love to hear what works for you or what drives you crazy when washing dishes!