Cutting Board Maintenance

So you just purchased your new cutting board from SD Wood Designs, how do you make sure that it lasts a lifetime???

Maintenance: 

   Wooden cutting boards need to be kept clean and routinely maintained to ensure that they last.  Start by washing your cutting board with soap and warm water and scrub well. The volume of water and mechanical scrubbing is more important than soap in flushing bacteria and other food particles off the board. After washing the cutting board, dry immediately with a towel and let it air dry standing up or on a raised rack with air flow.Please do not soak your boards in water or they'll crack and warp! 

If your board has stains or smells, you can use lemon juice or white vinegar directly on the area. The acid in these liquids will neutralize the organic material or fats causing the problem.

How often you use your boards will determine how often you should oil your boards.  You need to oil them to help maintain their surface and keep them from drying out. In my house, this happens about once a month but I know some people who do it once or twice a year and others on a weekly basis.  Its important to note that there is no harm in over oiling the board.

What Oil To Use:

  The oil you use for your wooden cutting boards should be food grade and not prone to rancidity.  With every purchase of a cutting board from me, you will receive a complimentary 2 oz  bottle of mineral oil to get you started. Mineral oil is an inexpensive and popular choice, and you can easily find bottles in most food stores and large stores like Lowes and Home Depot. Personally, I like to use a brand-name cutting board oil and cream such as HOWARD's Cutting Board Oil and conditioner.   It is important to note that you should never use other types of oils such as olive oil and canola oil because these types of oils will go rancid and ruin your board.