Care Instruction
Hopefully, you are not going to hang your cutting board on a wall!!! If not, and you are going to cut food on it, normal wear and scratch marks are to be expected on its cutting surface. With proper care ( Cleaning and Seasoning ), your board can last a long time.
* This instruction is also applicable to any wooden products with food safe finishes such as Coasters, Trays, Meat Mashers, etc.
Cleaning
It is crucial to clean your cutting board immediately after each use to avoid bacteria. The way you clean your cutting board plays a great role in your board’s longevity.
Remember, never submerge your board in water for extended period of time, and more importantly, never put your board in the dishwasher, where it is exposed to extreme heat, humidity and harsh chemicals. Instead, wipe it with warm soapy water and rinse with warm water after. Dry the board with clean kitchen towel or a piece of paper towel and store it in a dry area. If you are looking for a more natural cleaning method, rinse your board with warm water and sprinkle salt over it. Cut a lemon in half and scrub it over the board. Let it sit for five minutes then clean it with a brush or a clean kitchen towel.
To remove any stains from your board, we recommend a combination of baking soda, salt and hot water to create a non-toxic cleaning paste. Scrub this paste on your board for a minute, then rinse or wipe it with a warm wet towel. Dry the board with clean kitchen towel or a piece of paper towel and store it in a dry area.
Seasoning
We recommend seasoning your cutting board at least two times a year. When your board becomes dry or rough to touch, the board needs re-seasoning.
If your board is too rough, you can smooth it by sanding it with 120 and 220 grit with the grain before oiling.
Mineral oil is the most common choice. It is safe, cost-effective, easy to apply and widely available. Your board must be clean and dry before seasoning. Apply mineral oil liberally using a clean cloth, bristle or chip brush or by hand. Let the board sit for at least 12 hours then wipe of any excess using a clean dry cloth.
For an additional step you can use some food grade wood conditioning wax ( normally combination of beeswax and mineral oil ) on your board for extra protection against moisture. Apply a thin layer of wax, let the board dry for 15 to 20 minutes, then buff it off with a clean cloth to a smooth sheen.
Avoid using vegetable or nut-based oil on your board, since these types of oil become rancid and leave you board with an unpleasant smell and can even change the taste of the food.