How to Clean Cookie Cutters

Why Cookie Cutters Need Proper Cleaning

Cookie cutters — whether tin, stainless steel, copper, or plastic — trap dough in their edges and can rust quickly if not dried properly. A few simple habits keep them clean, rust-free, and ready for the next baking session.

What You'll Need

Non-scratch scrub sponge
Baking soda
White vinegar
Small brush or toothbrush
Mild dish soap
Warm water
Microfiber cloth

Cleaning Metal Cookie Cutters (Tin or Stainless Steel)

Wash immediately after use — don't let dough dry inside the edges
Use warm soapy water and a small brush to scrub inside the edges and any decorative details
Rinse thoroughly
Dry immediately and completely — this is the most critical step. Use a towel, then place in a warm oven at 200°F for 5 minutes to ensure all moisture is gone
Store in a dry location

Removing Dried Dough

If dough has dried inside the edges, soak in warm water for 5–10 minutes to soften it. Then use a toothbrush to scrub out the softened dough. Don't soak for longer than necessary — extended soaking promotes rust on tin cutters.

Removing Rust from Metal Cookie Cutters

Light rust on tin or steel cookie cutters can be removed with white vinegar. Soak in undiluted white vinegar for 10–15 minutes, scrub with a toothbrush, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely in the oven. For stubborn rust, use a rust eraser.

Cleaning Copper Cookie Cutters

Copper cutters tarnish quickly. After washing and drying, polish occasionally with a lemon-and-salt rub or Wright's Copper Polish to maintain their appearance.

Cleaning Plastic Cookie Cutters

Plastic cutters are the easiest — wash with warm soapy water, rinse, and air dry. Most are dishwasher safe on the top rack.

Storage Tips

Store completely dry — any moisture causes rust on metal cutters
Store in a dry container or zip-lock bag with a silica gel packet to absorb moisture
Don't stack wet cutters together

Final Thoughts

The golden rule for cookie cutters: wash immediately, dry completely, store dry. The oven-drying method is the most reliable way to ensure no moisture remains in the edges. Follow this routine and your cookie cutters will stay rust-free for years.

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