Whether you are looking for a special gift for the cooking enthusiast in your life, or its time to upgrade your own cutting board, a butcher block cutting board is a beautiful and functional addition to any kitchen.
Butcher block cutting boards serve the practical use of food prep, while also looking aesthetically appealing for serving food for a party or event.
As with any quality butcher block wood surface, proper care of a cutting board will ensure that the wood remains durable, sanitary, and visually appealing for years to come.
Let’s dig into some key maintenance steps to keep your butcher block cutting board looking its best:
1). Clean After Every Use
After each use, you should gently wipe your butcher block cutting board’s surface with a damp cloth or sponge and mild dish soap. Always avoid soaking the board or running it through the dishwasher, as excess moisture can cause the board to warp.
If there are any stains, you can try sprinkling coarse salt on its surface and then rubbing it with half a lemon — this natural method both cleans and deodorizes the wood.
2.) Dry Thoroughly
Once cleaned, you’ll want to dry your butcher block as soon as possible with a towel and allow it to air dry completely before storing.
Standing water left on the surface of the wood can cause warping or promote bacteria growth, so be sure to keep both sides dry to prevent uneven moisture absorption.
3.) Oil Regularly
When you purchase a butcher block cutting board, you’ll also want to invest in a quality food-grade butcher block oil. Oiling your butcher block is the key to maintaining its natural beauty and preventing it from drying out.
You’ll want to apply your food-grade mineral oil or a specialized butcher block conditioner once a month — or more often if your board looks dry.
To apply, pour a small amount of oil onto the surface and rub it in using a clean cloth, following the grain of the wood. Let it soak in overnight, then wipe away any excess oil in the morning.
4.) Disinfect Periodically
It’s also a good idea to disinfect your butcher block wood. To disinfect your board, mix one part white vinegar with four parts water and wipe the surface thoroughly. Vinegar helps kill bacteria without damaging the wood or stripping away oils.
Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can break down the wood’s natural fibers and affect its appearance.
5.) Sand When Needed
Over time, knife marks and stains may build up on your cutting board. When this happens, lightly sand the surface using fine-grit sandpaper to restore a smooth finish.
After sanding, remember to reapply oil to protect the fresh wood surface and keep it conditioned.
6.) Store Properly
Store your butcher block cutting board in a dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid leaning it flat against a wall where moisture can get trapped.
If possible, store it upright rather than horizontally to allow airflow around all sides and prevent warping.
In Summary
Proper care is what keeps your butcher block cutting board functional and beautiful for years to come. Regular cleaning, drying, oiling, and occasional refinishing will help preserve its strength and finish.
With consistent upkeep, your cutting board will remain a centerpiece in your kitchen for both cooking and entertaining.
Contact Forever Joint Tops for Cutting Board Solutions
Butcher block cutting boards aesthetic appeal, durability, and natural anti-bacterial properties are just some of the reasons why homeowners opt for butcher block in their kitchen.
We currently offer several end-grain cutting board product options: our Circle Starlight cutting board (a blend of Walnut heart and Sapwood), October cutting board (a mix of Walnut, Cherry, Maple, White Oak, and Hickory), and Williamsburg cutting board (crafted from Maple, Cherry, Hickory, White Oak, and Walnut) cutting board.
Custom Order Your Butcher Block!
At Forever Joint Tops, we custom design your butcher block cutting boards, countertops, kitchen islands, tabletops, and bar tops, helping you achieve the kitchen of your dreams!
With our wood cutting boards, you can expect quality, durability, and long-lasting products that last for many years (and even longer when well cared for). To get started with your cutting board order, please contact us at 608-566-6903 for a quote.
