How long should I boil wood to disinfect it?

AutumnBreeze · Oct 3, 2018

So I've collected some branches and made then into little beads and things to make for bird toys. I wanted to boil them but I didn't know how long i needed to boil it for it to completely disinfect the branches. I can always cook them in the oven but its just easier to boil, and I don't have any GSE just yet.

SailBoat · Oct 3, 2018

I'm not a fan of boiling wood as it commonly breaks down the structure that holds it together, which can lead to the wood rotting if not dried completely.

Dawn Original Dish Washing soap and hot water. Use it to wash the branches and then rise well with cool water will 'clean' the branches. Letting it dry on a hard clean surface in bright Sunlight will complete the process.

If your goal is to assure there is no bugs below the surface of the bark, you will need to remove the bark and wash as noted above. Then place it in a oven at a temperature under 230 degrees F until dry. Great care is need not to overheat the branches as there is always the chance of a fire. Or, as noted above, allowed to dry on a hard clean surface in bright Sunlight.

noodles123 · Oct 3, 2018

I would scrub/soak in hot water and then bake for at least 250 degrees F for 39 minutes

noodles123 · Oct 3, 2018

what kind of wood?

How long should I boil wood to disinfect it?

AutumnBreeze

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