The Maintenance & Care of Old Wooden Cutting Boards

A wooden cutting board.

A wooden cutting board is a great addition to any kitchen. Wooden cutting boards are typically more durable, versatile and attractive than glass or plastic boards, and will provide a strong, smooth surface for food preparation. A high-quality wooden cutting board, with proper care, can last many years. Wooden cutting boards require special handling, and must be seasoned, cleaned and sanitized properly.

Things You'll Need

• A soft cloth
• Food-grade mineral oil
• Warm water
• Soap
• Coarse salt or baking soda
• Fine-grain sandpaper
• Lemon (optional)
• Vinegar (optional)
• Bleach (optional)

Instructions

Season

1. Season your wooden cutting board with oil when it is new, and monthly or as needed. Seasoning the board seals the surface and prevents moisture and bacteria from soaking into the wood.

2. Using a soft cloth, gently wipe warm mineral oil over the board in the direction of the grain. Keep adding more oil until it will no longer soak in.

3. Remove the excess oil with the cloth and allow it to dry completely.

4. Repeat this process four to five times, allowing the last coat to dry for at least six hours before use.

Clean

1. Clean your cutting board frequently, particularly after cutting meat, fish, or watery fruits and vegetables. There are several methods for cleaning wooden cutting boards.

2. Scrub the cutting with hot, soapy water. Do not submerge the cutting board in water, as the board could soak up water, causing it to warp. Allow the board to dry thoroughly.

3. Disinfect the cutting board with undiluted white vinegar. Apply vinegar to the board with a spray bottle and then wipe with a cloth.

4. Sanitize the cutting board with a solution of one teaspoon liquid chlorine bleach in one quart of water. Cover the surface of the board with bleach and let it stand for a few minutes. Rinse the surface with water and pat dry with a paper towel or cloth.

Deodorize

1. Deodorize your cutting board to remove the odors of fish, meat, onions, garlic and other aromatic foods.

2. Rub the surface of the cutting board with coarse salt of baking soda. Let it set for a few minutes, then wipe off the salt or baking soda and rinse.

3. Wipe fresh lemon juice or a lemon slice over the surface of the board, then rinse and dry.

Prevent and Repair Damage

1. Remove surface scratches by gently sanding the surface of the board with sandpaper, then rinse off the sandpaper residue. You will need to re-season the board after sanding.

2. Keep your cutting board dry between uses. After washing the board, place it in a dish drainer or prop it up to allow it to dry completely.

3. Scrape the board with a spatula after each use to remove moisture and prevent bacteria build-up, cracking and warping.

4. Season your cutting board once a month, or as needed, to keep the surface smooth and prevent bacteria from soaking into the wood.

References

• What's Cooking America: How to Purchase Cutting Boards
• Men In Aprons: 3 Keys to Wooden Cutting Board Care