Keeping Your Wooden Serving Boards in Good Shape
Wood is organic and thirsty; it survives best when you keep it clean, dry it immediately, and feed it food-grade mineral oil regularly to prevent it from cracking or warping.
Consistency beats perfection.
Your board will last for decades if you treat it as a tool that needs maintenance rather than a countertop accessory. Never let it soak in water.
- food-grade mineral oil
- clean, lint-free cotton cloths
- coarse salt
- half a lemon
Deep Conditioning
When the wood stops absorbing the oil and beads it on the surface, the grain is fully saturated. Wipe away the excess, or the board will remain tacky.
The method.
Clean the surface
Wash the board with warm water and a small amount of mild soap. Do not submerge it. Dry it thoroughly with a towel and stand it upright to air dry for several hours.
Deodorize and sanitize
Sprinkle coarse salt over the board. Use the cut side of a lemon half to scrub the salt into the wood grain. This lifts surface stains and removes residual odors.
Apply the oil
Pour a generous tablespoon of mineral oil onto the dry surface. Work it into the grain using a clean cloth, moving in circular motions until the wood looks dark and hydrated.
Let it cure
Leave the oiled board standing upright overnight. The wood will drink in the oil; wipe off any sticky residue the next morning.
When it doesn't go to plan.
Never put wooden boards in the dishwasher; the intense heat and water will crack the wood and ruin the glue joints.
Avoid cooking oils like olive or vegetable oil; these turn rancid and will make your board smell sour over time.
Store boards standing on their edge to ensure air circulates on both sides and prevents warping.
The ones that keep coming up.
How do I know if my board needs oil?
The wood will look light, dull, or chalky. If water droplets soak into the wood immediately instead of beading up, it is time for a treatment.
What if my board has a deep scratch?
Lightly sand the area with fine-grit sandpaper, going with the grain, then re-oil the entire board to ensure the finish stays even.
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