Keeping Your Wooden Cutting Boards in Prime Condition
Maintenance is a simple cycle of cleaning, drying, and hydrating. Never soak wood in water, and apply a food-grade mineral oil once a month to prevent the fibers from drying out, cracking, or taking on unwanted odors.
Consistency beats intensity
Your board will last for decades if you treat it as a tool, not a surface. A dry, gray board is a thirsty board that is currently compromising its integrity.
- Soft sponge
- Lint-free cloth or paper towels
- Food-grade mineral oil
- Coarse salt
- Half a lemon
Saturation is key
When oiling, apply enough so that the wood stops absorbing it and the surface remains slightly tacky. Wipe off only what the grain refuses to drink.
The method.
Wash manually
Use warm water and a drop of mild dish soap. Scrub both sides evenly to prevent the board from bowing due to uneven moisture absorption.
Dry vertically
Never leave a wet board flat on the counter. Prop it upright so air circulates on both sides while it dries.
Sanitize and deodorize
Sprinkle coarse salt over the board, then rub it firmly with a halved lemon. This pulls out lingering onion or garlic scents and light surface stains.
Seal the fibers
Apply food-grade mineral oil to a dry cloth and buff it into the wood in circular motions. Let it sit overnight, then wipe away any excess.
When it doesn't go to plan.
Avoid vegetable or olive oils; they go rancid and will make your board sticky and foul-smelling over time.
If your board feels rough, sand it lightly with fine-grit sandpaper before oiling it to restore a smooth finish.
Never put a wooden board in the dishwasher; the intense heat and water pressure will split the wood and dissolve the glue holding it together.
The ones that keep coming up.
How often should I oil my board?
Once a month is standard, but if the board looks dull or feels light and dry to the touch, it is time for another application.
Can I use beeswax?
Yes. A mixture of mineral oil and food-grade beeswax creates a more durable, water-resistant barrier than oil alone.
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