How to Care for Your Wooden Cutting Board

Wooden cutting boards are a classic kitchen tool cherished for their durability, aesthetic appeal, and gentle impact on knife blades. However, to ensure your wooden board remains a trusty kitchen companion for years to come, proper care is essential. Here’s a comprehensive guide to keeping your wooden cutting board in top shape.

Initial Cleaning Immediately After Use:

• Rinse and Scrub: After each use, rinse your cutting board with warm water. Use a mild dish soap and a soft sponge or brush to clean the surface. Avoid soaking the board or using harsh detergents, as these can damage the wood.
• Avoid the Dishwasher: Wooden boards should never be put in the dishwasher. The intense heat and moisture can cause warping and cracking.

Tough Stains and Odors

• Lemon and Salt: Sprinkle coarse salt over the board, then rub it with a cut lemon. This helps to disinfect and remove odors. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
• Baking Soda Paste: For stubborn stains, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, and scrub with a sponge. Rinse and dry as usual.

Drying

• Pat Dry: After washing, pat the board dry with a clean towel.
• Air Dry: Allow the board to air dry completely before storing it. Place it in an upright position to ensure even drying on both sides.

Seasoning

• Why It’s Important: Seasoning your wooden cutting board helps to maintain its integrity by preventing it from drying out, which can lead to cracks and warps. It also helps to keep the board hygienic by creating a barrier against bacteria.

How to Season:

• Choose the Right Oil: Use a food-safe mineral oil or a specialty cutting board oil. Avoid using vegetable oils, as they can become rancid.
• Apply Oil Regularly: Once a month, or as needed, apply a generous amount of oil to the board. Use a clean cloth or paper towel to rub the oil in, following the grain of the wood. Let it soak in for a few hours or overnight, then wipe off any excess.
• Be Generous with Oiling: For new boards or those that appear particularly dry, don’t be shy about applying a lot of oil. Let it penetrate deeply into the wood.

Storage

• Keep It Dry: Store your cutting board in a dry place. Avoid areas with high humidity, as excessive moisture can lead to mold growth.
• Avoid Direct Heat: Keep your board away from direct heat sources like stoves or sunny windows, as these can cause the wood to dry out or warp.

Handling and Maintenance

• Inspect Regularly: Check your board for any signs of damage, such as deep grooves or cracks. Sand down any rough spots with fine-grit sandpaper, and re-oil the board afterward.
• Repairing Damage: For small cracks or splits, you can use wood glue to repair them. Clean the area thoroughly, apply glue, and let it dry completely before resuming use.

With proper care, a wooden cutting board can be a beautiful, functional, and long-lasting kitchen tool. Regular cleaning, seasoning, and mindful usage will keep your board looking great and performing well. Embrace these practices, and your wooden cutting board will reward you with many years of culinary service!

Happy cooking!

Mike Barthlow

Barthlow Boards