How to care for a wood cutting board

General Maintenance and care for a wood cutting board doesn’t mean you have to wash your cutting board after every use. If you only cut some bread or other “dry” materials, just brush off any crumbs and wipe the surface with a clean damp towel. Otherwise, always wash your cutting board with warm soapy water after each use on both sides to insure moisture-balance in the wood. Common mild dish soap is best. Avoid submerging it in water and NEVER put it in the dishwasher, as prolonged exposure to both moisture and heat can cause warping or cracking. Dry the board with a clean cloth or paper towel immediately after cleaning. You will need to periodically wax your board (see Long Term Maintenance below). A properly waxed board will resist stains and odors, will insure food safety, and will need less maintenance with a much longer lifespan.

For odor removal, use kosher salt and a lemon (or distilled white vinegar). Sprinkle the board with a generous amount of kosher salt. Squeeze lemon juice over the salt and use the cut side of a lemon to rub the mixture over the board to create a thick paste. If the lemon isn’t very juicy, you can add a little water. If you don’t have a lemon, use white vinegar and a clean cloth. Allow the paste to dry on the board completely, which may take about an hour, then gently scrape it off using a metal spatula. Wash and dry the board. Note: vinegar may make your board smell “vinegary” for a week or more so lemon is preferred.

For stain removal, make a slurry of baking soda and water and use a Scotch-Brite sponge to scrub the surface gently, then rinse. You may have to do this more than once. Clean stained boards as soon as possible. Most stains come out after one or more cleanings, but if allowed to fully dry it will become set. A well-set stain may require refinishing to remove.

Long Term Maintenance. Once the board is fully “broken-in” and in regular use, you should only need to apply food-safe mineral oil or oil-wax finish every one to two months depending on the level and nature of use. A product formulated for cutting boards is recommended, like our “Best Board Wax”. This treatment helps to seal the wood, preventing it from absorbing moisture, odors and stains. Simply rub a generous amount of product on the entire board with a clean cloth, allowing it to soak in for 2 to 12 hours before wiping away any excess. Wax finishes may require vigorously rubbing the board with a clean cloth in a circular motion to remove streaks and achieve a nice shine.

Important Tips.  If you are not sure if your board needs oil, put a few drops of water on it. If the water beads, it is fine. If the water disperses or soaks in, the board needs oil. A new board may need oiling more frequently than an older board, check weekly for the first month. Be sure to always use a food-safe product designed for cutting boards, preferably one that is an oil-wax blend. Always store your wooden cutting board in a dry place, away from heat or direct sunlight to preserve its integrity and color. With proper care, your wooden cutting board will last for many years, serving as a beautiful and functional kitchen tool.