How to Care for Your Artisan Wood Cutting Board: A Step-by-Step Guide

Maximize the Lifespan of Your Cutting Board: Essential Tips

Before First Use

To ensure your board stays in peak condition, we recommend applying a coat of food-grade mineral oil to both sides before use. While your board was thoroughly soaked in mineral oil and finished with a protective layer of our Board Butter (a blend of mineral oil and beeswax) prior to shipping, additional oiling will help prevent drying, cracking, or warping.

After oiling, give your board a gentle wash with warm, soapy water. Dry it immediately. If your board doesn’t have feet, store it upright on its edge to allow airflow on all sides. Never soak your board in water or leave it sitting in a wet area.

Oiling & Conditioning Your Board

For the best long-term care, we recommend using both mineral oil and board butter. Mineral oil nourishes deep within the wood fibers, while board butter provides a protective surface barrier. While you can use one or the other, using both together is ideal for longevity.

How to Apply Mineral Oil

1. Pour a moderate amount of mineral oil directly onto the board.

2. Spread it evenly using a clean cloth or our Applicator.

3. Let it soak in for a few minutes.

4. Buff off any excess with a clean, dry cloth.

5. Repeat on both sides of the board.

   
   

There’s no risk of over-oiling—wood will absorb what it needs. A good rule of thumb is to oil your board once a week for the first month. After that, do it once a month for the next few months (2-3 times per month if used regularly). As needed after that, look for a dry or dull appearance as a sign it’s time to reapply.

Applying Board Butter

After oiling, rub a generous amount of board butter onto the surface. Buff it in with a clean cloth or our Applicator. This helps lock in moisture and creates a smoother, water-resistant finish.

Choosing the Right Oil

Always use food-grade mineral oil—like our Board Oil. It’s odorless, tasteless, and won’t go rancid. Avoid vegetable, coconut, and olive oils, as they can spoil over time. Be cautious with nut-based oils if there are allergy concerns.

Cleaning & Maintenance Tips

• After Each Use: Scrape off food debris, then wash your board with warm, soapy water. Rinse well and dry immediately.

• Surface Roughness: If the surface feels slightly rough after washing, don’t worry. This is normal. The wood fibers will settle back down over time.

• Deep Cleaning: For an extra-deep clean, sanitize with a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water. Let it sit briefly, then rinse and dry.

• Avoid Soaking: Never submerge your board in water or put it in the dishwasher; this can lead to warping and cracking.

• Storing Your Board: Store your board in a dry location. If it doesn’t have feet, stand it upright on its edge to prevent trapped moisture.

  
  

For food safety, always clean your board thoroughly after handling raw meat, poultry, or seafood. If possible, use separate boards for raw proteins and ready-to-eat foods like fruits, vegetables, and bread.

To extend the life of your board, use a clean cloth or paper towel to remove excess moisture during use. Avoid steel brushes, as they can scratch the surface and create places for bacteria to grow.

Handling Stains & Odors

Some foods—like beets and berries—can stain lighter wood species like maple and cherry. While Board Butter helps provide some protection, it’s best to use a separate board for highly pigmented foods. If stains occur, they often fade over time. For quicker removal, try rubbing the area with lemon juice and kosher salt. Avoid bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or baking soda, as they can damage the wood.

To eliminate lingering odors (like garlic or onion), rub the affected area with a cut raw potato or apple.

Enjoy Your Board for Years to Come

A well-maintained cutting board isn’t just a tool—it’s part of your kitchen’s story. With proper care, your board will serve you well for years, helping you create memorable meals for family and friends. Make sure to follow these steps for the best results and longevity of your cutting board. Enjoy cooking with your beautifully cared-for board, knowing it will be there for your culinary adventures!