Care Instructions for Your Wooden Cutting Board

A little maintenance goes a long way. Follow these simple care steps to keep your Walnut, Maple, or Cherry cutting board beautiful, durable, and ready for daily use.

Every board is made from solid hardwood and finished with food-safe oil and wax. Because wood is a natural material, proper care helps prevent drying, cracking, and warping over time.

Everyday Cleaning

After each use, wash your board with warm water and mild soap. Wipe it clean with a soft cloth or sponge, then dry it immediately with a towel. Store upright or in a well-ventilated area so both sides can dry evenly.

Quick tips:

  • Wash with warm water and mild soap

  • Dry immediately after cleaning

  • Let the board air dry upright

  • Clean both sides when possible

What Not To Do

Wood cutting boards should never be soaked in water or placed in the dishwasher. Excess moisture and heat can cause the wood to swell, warp, split, or crack.

Do not soak
Leaving your board in standing water can damage the wood fibers.

Do not dishwash
High heat and long water exposure are hard on hardwood boards.

Do not leave wet
Always dry thoroughly after washing.

How to Oil Your Board

To keep your board hydrated and protected, apply a food-safe mineral oil or board butter regularly. This helps prevent the wood from drying out and keeps the surface looking rich and smooth.

Step-by-step layout:
1. Start with a clean, dry board
Make sure the surface is fully dry before applying oil.

2. Apply a generous coat
Use a soft cloth or paper towel to spread food-safe mineral oil over the entire surface, including edges and underside.

3. Let it soak in
Allow the oil to absorb for several hours or overnight.

4. Buff off excess
Wipe away any remaining oil with a clean cloth.

Recommended frequency:
Oil every 2–4 weeks, or anytime the board starts to look dry, faded, or chalky.

Keeping Your Board Looking Its Best

Over time, your board may develop knife marks or feel slightly rough after washing. This is normal and part of using a real wood surface.

Surface feels rough?
Moisture can raise the grain slightly. Let the board dry completely, lightly sand with fine sandpaper, and re-oil the surface.

Showing wear from use?
Minor knife marks are expected. Regular oiling helps maintain the appearance, and deeper wear can often be refreshed with light sanding and refinishing.

How to Prevent Damage

Wood naturally responds to moisture and temperature changes. The best way to protect your board is to keep it clean, dry, and regularly conditioned.

  • Avoid prolonged contact with water

  • Do not place near stoves, radiators, or direct heat

  • Dry both sides evenly

  • Use both sides of the board when possible

  • Oil regularly to maintain balance in the wood

Safe Kitchen Use

Your board can be used for everyday food prep, including meat, vegetables, herbs, bread, and fruit. After preparing raw meat, wash thoroughly with warm water and mild soap and dry the board right away. Many customers prefer separate boards for meat and produce for convenience.

About Walnut, Maple, and Cherry

Walnut

Rich and dark with a smooth, premium appearance and a slightly softer feel.

Maple

Durable, clean-looking, and a classic choice.

Cherry

Warm reddish tones that deepen and darken naturally with age and light exposure.