OILING AND MAINTAINING WOOD CUTTING BOARDS

PROPERLY OILING WOOD CUTTING BOARDS is essential to ensuring longevity of use. The following is the Why, How and When of oiling and maintaining wood cutting boards. To see a How-To video on oiling wood cutting boards, click here.

Why – Because they are wood, wood cutting boards will season, or dry out, as they age. This natural seasoning process can eventually lead to cracking, warping and even splitting. In order to help slow down the drying and aging process, wood cutting boards need to be oiled regularly with USP grade mineral oil.  

How – To oil wood cutting boards, use an FDA approved or USP grade mineral oil such as White Mineral Oil, Wood Cutting Board Oil, or plain old USP grade Mineral Oil which is found in most retail stores or online. With a clean cloth, kitchen towel, or paper towel, generously apply the mineral oil to the entire wood cutting board, especially the ends as the end grain tends to dry out the quickest. Let the wood cutting board absorb the oil for a few minutes then wipe off any excess. 

When – RVA Cutting Boards suggests oiling wood cutting boards after every use. However, RVA Cutting Boards understands that life is busy and who has the time to oil a wood cutting board after every use? Oiling wood cutting boards once a month is usually sufficient. If frequently used, oiling more often is recommended. The more it is oiled, the better. If it feels dry then oil it! If you see a whitish look on the ends of the cutting board then oil it!

Note - Many oils specifically labeled "Wood Cutting Board Oil" are made with a mixture of mineral oil and beeswax. The added beeswax can help the cutting board to repel water and liquid during use and cleaning. The added beeswax can be beneficial but is not necessary for protection of wood cutting boards.