We can’t deny that the cutting board or butcher block is one of our best companions in the kitchen. but the question is: are we giving them the care and maintenance they really deserve? The answer is most probably no.
A chopping board whether it is a plastic board, glass board, or wood board is exposed to lots and lots of water, moisture, heat, and bacteria, which can damage the cutting surface over time.
That’s why we will tell you how to properly take care of and maintain your chopping board to make it serve you for the longest time possible.
Why Should You Oil Your Cutting Board?
Well, wood is an organic material that is prone to changes over time. It can crack, dry, and stain.
If you want to prevent this from happening to your beloved chopping board, and wanna keep the surface of your cutting surface, whether it is a wood surface or a plastic cutting board, smooth, shiny, and clean, you should regularly use a cutting board oil and a board cream.
Cracking is a massive problem. Imagine cutting raw meat and poultry on a cracked wooden cutting board, this tiny crack might seem innocent and harmless to you, but in fact, it will be full of bacteria and germs from the liquid coming from the raw meat.
A wood board and wood butcher block always get wet, which in turn builds up warping and bacteria. (if you soak or bleach them, the damage will be much worse)
So what do chopping board oils do? The oil penetrates deep into the wood cutting board and fills the grooves and cracks as well, which acts like mild water repellant. stopping the cutting board from absorbing moisture and forming bacteria.
Not only this, but oil also is more like a protective layer, preventing liquid stains from sticking into the wood cutting board and bring out the grain in the wood. Giving you a smooth side you can even use as a serving tray.
Read More: https://kitchenzad.com/how-to-care-for-cutting-board/
Did you know that you should oil your wood spoons and wood countertops occasionally as well?
Read more, 5 Best Knives’ Oil and Lubricant Review
When Should You Oil Your Cutting Board?
Well, there is no ground rule for the time of oiling your wood cutting board and butcher block. it depends on how often you use them.
It also depends on the wood of your board. whether it is an edge grain cutting board or end grain cutting board.
It also differs according to the wood type whether it is a teak wood surface, a bamboo cutting board, or a maple one.
when your maple wood board looking turns into a slightly lighter color, this means it is getting dry and need the touch of the beloved cutting board oil.
Read More: https://kitchenzad.com/category/cutting-boards/
So we recommend the following:
- Oiling the wood boards before their first use.
- Oiling when you feel it is dry to the touch.ass
- When you see some parts lighter or duller than the rest of the wood surface.
- If you sprinkled water and the surface absorbed it.
- For enhanced maintenance, don’t keep your chopping board in water for a long time and try to oil it monthly.
Read More: https://kitchenzad.com/why-is-it-important-to-use-a-cutting-board/
How to Oil Your Cutting Board?
Clean Your Cutting Board
Wash (don’t soak) the chopping board or butcher block with warm soapy water or white vinegar solution.
Dry the Board Thoroughly
Let your board dry completely in the air. (Don’t dry it with a damp cloth or paper towel, that won’t give the wanted result)
Apply the Cutting Board Oil
Dip a dry cloth into the board oils and rub it against the chopping board’s surface. Don’t overcoat it. Keep it thin. Don’t forget to oil the board edges as well.
For this step, you can use coconut oil, linseed oil, food grade mineral oil, and tung oil. Don’t ever apply olive oil or vegetable oil to your wood surface.
Read more , The 5 Best Ceramic Folding Knife /Pocket Knife Review
Let it do the magic!
Keep your board standing on its side to dry overnight. And let the oil do its magic.
How Long Do You Soak a Cutting Board in Mineral Oil?
Let the oil soak into the wooden board for 20 to 30 minutes, then use a dry piece of cloths to wipe off the excess oil. And then, let the wood board harden and oxidize by placing it aside for 6 hours.
Remove the Excess. Then rub your finger against the surface. if you found it sticky, you need to remove the excess board oil using a paper towel. And ta-da! The board is ready to use for years to come.
How Many Coats of Oil Do You Put On a Cutting Board?
Two coats
To “season” your new wooden cutting board perfectly, you should apply two coats at least, then leave it to dry for an hour. For boards thicker than one inch, you have to use 3 to 4 coats. The additional oil ensures soaking the oil deep into the wood.
