How to Care for a Wooden Cutting Board

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Cutting Board

Cutting boards have been a kitchen necessity ever since the first lumberjack took a slice out of a felled tree. Today’s cutting boards are both utilitarian tools and works of art. Just look at the array of shapes and styles available—cows or pigs; ovals or rectangles with routered or carved decorative edges. They are worthy of being displayed right alongside other treasured pieces that adorn your kitchen.

Some people collect for sentimental reasons, some for artistic collections. No matter the reason, cutting boards are hard workers in the kitchen and should be cared for properly if they are to retain their beauty and their functionality. Following these four steps will keep your cutting board(s) both useful and beautiful.

  • Refrain from putting wooden cutting boards in the dishwasher. The heat can cause cracking of the wood.
  • Wash wooden cutting boards in warm soapy water after each use, and allow to air dry.
  • To keep your board fresh, sprinkle it with coarse salt then rub with a lemon cut in half. Rub in a circular motion to scour the board, then rinse in hot water and air dry to keep it smelling fresh.
  • To prevent the board from drying out and cracking, use a lint-free cloth dipped in mineral oil and rub well into the board. Reapply as the oil soaks in. When the oil stops absorbing, wipe the board clean and let sit overnight. Do not use food grade oils like olive or vegetable as they will turn rancid.

With these simple maintenance tips your cutting boards will last for years.

 



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