How to Cure a Wood Cutting Board

A wood cutting board is never really cured. To keep the cutting board safe from germs or mold, the surface must be treated at least weekly, but preferably after every wash. Applying inert oil to the surface of the wood cutting board fills in the pores and helps the board repel liquids, oils and food. Check the cutting board carefully each time it is treated. If the wood deteriorates or suffers splinters from usage or knife cuts, the board becomes unsanitary, as food particles are left in the wood to decay. The wood splinters and decayed foodstuffs can end up in your meal ingredients.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Inert oil such as pure raw almond oil, walnut or mineral oil
• Clean cloth

Initial Treatment of the Wood Cutting Board

1. Allow oil to warm to room temperature.

2. Apply a generous coating of oil to every surface of the cutting board.

3. Wipe off excess oil.

4. Repeat steps several times.

Cutting Board Maintenance After Use

5. Wash cutting board after use.

6. Apply a coat of oil to the cutting surface.

7. Allow oil to set overnight or until the cutting board is needed again.

8. Wipe excess oil from the board before use.

Tips & Warnings

• Warm oil will more easily penetrate the wood.
• Use only inert oil to treat the cutting board; vegetable and cooking oils will turn rancid.

References

• Butcher Blocks