How to Seal an Apple Press

Juice fresh apples in a clean, sealed cider press

The hardwood basket of a cider press requires cleansing and maintenance for best longevity. A wooden apple press needs a degree of protection whether it's used as a pure juice press or for cider making. An apple press with clean, coated wood will last longer while making quality juice and mash.

Things You'll Need

• Iodophor
• Mineral oil
• Clean cloth
• Paint brushes
• Food grade polymer gel

Instructions

1. Sanitize the wooden apple press basket and racks by pouring boiling water over the parts. Use iodophor as a final rinse to ensure food safety.

2. Spread a light coat of mineral oil on all the wood parts of your cider press with a clean cloth. Allow 20 minutes for the oil to soak into the wood before using the juice press. Natural oil is a good wood finish--and mineral oil is edible.

3. Seal the exterior wood and metal parts of the juice press by applying clear varnish or pure tung oil with a paint brush. Use beeswax as a substitute for the oil, or mix the wax with one of the oils before applying.

4. Seal the interior wood for protection against moisture with a food-safe finish, if desired. Apples for cider making contain acid that degrades wood over time. Some manufacturers recommend using food-grade polymer gel that is clearly labeled as a food-safe product to seal the basket.

References

• Bay Area Mashers: Iodophor
• Amateur Woodworker: Oil Finishes
• Sentex: Building an Apple Grinder