Coconut Bowl Care & Safety FAQ

Welcome to Oakenark tribe! To hold a bit of nature in your hands is truly special, and we, the founders and creators, are so thankful to be able to do that for you. We believe that the things we use everyday should have something to say and be loved for it. What follows are our most frequently asked questions to help you build a long, beautiful relationship with your new coconut bowl.

Are coconut bowls safe?

Absolutely. As their creators and daily users ourselves, safety is our top priority. Our Natural Coconut Bowls are handcrafted from 100% real coconuts that are rescued after their flesh and water are consumed. We thoroughly clean them and sand them until they are as smooth as possible, then buff them with pure, virgin coconut oil. No chemicals or unnatural lacquers are ever used on our food-safe bowls. This makes them a non-toxic, totally natural, and safe choice for your meals.

Are coconut bowls sanitary/are they clean?

Yes. Clean and cared for, coconut bowls are completely sanitary. Coconut wood has natural chemicals, and the coconut oil polish that's made from organic coconut oil closes its pores. Similar to a chopping board made of wood, providing you follow the simple ritual of washing it after every use and drying it thoroughly, it'll be clean and sanitary to place your beautiful food on.

Are coconut bowls microwave safe?

No. Think of your bowl as a piece of natural wood. A concentrated surge of microwave energy could potentially cause the moisture and natural oils that have been trapped within its fibers to turn into steam and swell, thereby causing unhappy, cracked bowls. Don't put your natural treasure in the microwave.

Are coconut bowls dishwasher safe?

No. Your bowl gets a gentle bath, but it's not looking forward to the extreme heat, harsh cleansers, and long wash cycle of a dishwasher. This harsh condition will strip its natural oils and warp and crack it. Treat it to the affection of a speedy hand wash always.

How to clean coconut bowls?

Cleaning is simple and mindful ritual, not backbreaking drudgery. Simply wash your coconut bowl with warm, rather than scalding hot, soapy water. Its best friend is a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid rough scrubbers and steel wool. Wash, dry with a towel, and air dry thoroughly in a well-ventilated place.

How to care for coconut bowls?

To keep your bowl fresh and shining for decades, give it a "spa day" after 10-20 uses. Easy peasy! Apply a tiny bit (a teaspoon) of virgin coconut oil or flaxseed oil to a clean cloth and massage the whole surface, both inside and out. You'll be amazed to see the color become richer and the natural grain more defined. This simple step rehydrates the shell and makes it stronger for a very long life.

Can hot food be put in coconut bowls?

Coconut bowls adore heat, but not fiery heat! They're perfect for warm foods like oatmeal, rice dishes, noodles, and big soups. But directly pour super hot liquids (like soup straight from a rolling boil) into the bowl, no! Let extremely hot food sit for about a minute or so before putting it in the bowl. Think "comfortably warm," not "ouch, that's hot!"