Care & Maintenance

A hardwood cutting board can be a hard working and beautiful part of your kitchen for many, many years but it will require a bit more care and maintenance than a throw away plastic cutting board.

Before leaving our shop, every wooden cutting, charcuterie and cheese board goes through a two part sealing process. First the boards are soaked in a mineral oil bath to make sure the oils get absorbed deep into the wood fibers. Afterwards each board is coated with our own Board Butter wood conditioner for an extra layer of natural protection. Like any natural finish though, use and cleaning will wear down this protective layer and require a deeper clean and reconditioning.

Why is it important to clean your wooden cutting board?

Wooden cutting boards are a staple in many kitchens due to their durability and natural beauty. However, they require special care to ensure they remain safe and hygienic for food preparation. Cleaning your wooden cutting board is essential to prevent the growth of bacteria, eliminate odors, and extend its lifespan.

The picture below shows what can happen to your wooden cutting board over time without proper care and maintenance.

How Often Do I Need To Clean And Recondition My Wooden Cutting Board?

How often you need to recondition your board will depend on how you use your board.  If your board is mainly a piece of art on your counter then it will obviously need less maintenance than one that gets used and cleaned daily.  A wooden charcuterie or cheese board can generally be wiped off and used several times before needing a deep cleaning while a board that is used to chop up BBQ will need to be cleaned after each use.

In all cases you'll notice that over time the wood in your cutting board will appear lighter in color and start to look dry.  This is a good sign that the board needs a good coat of conditioner to bring it back to life.

What materials do you need?

To deep clean your wooden cutting board effectively, you will need the following materials:

• Warm water
• Dish soap
• Sponge or dishcloth
• Vinegar or lemon juice
• Coarse salt
• Cutting Board Oil and/or Conditioner

Step-by-step guide to cleaning your wooden cutting board

First off, let's start with a few things to avoid:

• Avoid soaking your wooden cutting board in water or exposing it to excessive moisture, as it can cause warping or splitting.
• Avoid getting only one side of your board wet. As the moisture is absorbed the wood can expand and then contract as it dries. With only one side wet the wood will tend to warp or twist as the moisture is uneven on the board.
• Avoid laying the board flat on the counter while storing and especially while drying. As above, uneven moisture and drying can cause warping or even splitting of the wood. Boards with feet can be left flat on their feet as this will allow air flow around the board.
• Avoid using harsh cleaning agents or bleach, as they can damage the wood.

Follow these steps to properly clean and maintain your wooden cutting board:

Step 1: Rinse with warm water

After each use, rinse both sides of your wooden cutting board with warm water to remove any food particles or debris. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause the wood to warp or crack.

Step 2: Clean with dish soap

Apply a small amount of dish soap to a sponge or dishcloth and gently scrub the surface of the cutting board. Pay extra attention to any stains or strong odors. Rinse thoroughly with warm water. 

Step 3: Disinfect with vinegar or lemon juice

To disinfect your wooden cutting board, create a solution of equal parts water and vinegar or lemon juice. Pour the solution onto the board and use a sponge or dishcloth to scrub the surface. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water.

Step 4: Remove stains with coarse salt

If your wooden cutting board has stubborn stains, sprinkle coarse salt over the surface and use a lemon half to scrub the stains. The abrasive salt and natural acidity of the lemon will help lift the stains. Rinse both sides thoroughly with warm water.

Step 5: Dry thoroughly

After cleaning, pat the wooden cutting board dry with a clean towel and allow the board to dry completely and evenly on all sides before storing to prevent the growth of mold or mildew.

Step 6: Apply cutting board conditioner

Regularly applying cutting board conditioner, like our Board Butter, helps to keep the wood moisturized and sealed to prevent it from drying out or cracking. Apply a thin layer of conditioner to the entire surface of the cutting board using a clean cloth. Let it absorb for a few hours or overnight, then wipe off any excess and buff the wax out to a smooth finish.

By following these cleaning and maintenance steps, you can ensure that your wooden cutting board remains a safe and reliable tool in your kitchen for years to come.