FINISH on a cutting board is a misnomer.
A cutting board surface is never “Finished”
Proper care is a continuing treatment.

The proper surface treatment of a wooden cutting board is important to guard against germs or mold growth. It is important to note that grained hardwoods are the only suitable woods for cutting board use. Softer closed grained woods deteriorate with knife cuts and usage. They become unsanitary and wood splinters or particles wind up in foodstuffs. Click here for more information about cutting boards and bacteria.

A wooden cutting board (or other butcher block surface) needs an oil that can be repeatedly applied to fill the wood pores and repel food particles, liquids and oils.

The oil must be an inert oil or otherwise it will turn rancid. Never use vegetable or cooking oils to treat a cutting surface. They get rancid and the wood will eventually reek of a spoiled oil odor.

The traditional oil is mineral oil. Every time the surface is washed, or at least weekly, the oil should be reapplied. Heat the oil slightly before applying an even, generous coat to the surface. Let the oil sit for at least 30 minutes (or until the next use) before wiping the surface dry.

You can lengthen the life of your cutting board by observing the following guidelines in addition to regular oil treatments.

  • Do not allow moisture of any type to stand on the cutting board for long periods of time.
  • Don’t let fresh, wet meats lay on the cutting board longer than necessary. Brine, water and blood contain much moisture, which soaks into the wood, causing the board to expand, the wood to soften, and affects the strength of the glued joints.
  • Always clean the cutting board thoroughly after cutting fish or fowl.
  • Be sure never to cut continuously in the same place on your cutting board. Distribute your cutting over the entire work surface so that it will wear evenly.
  • Your cutting board should be turned over periodically (if possible) to allow even usage to both work surfaces.
  • Never wash your cutting board with harsh detergents of any type. Washing by hand with warm to hot water and a liquid dish-washing detergent is the preferred method.