FREE SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS!

FAQ

 

Should I use oil or wax on my board, or both:

Both oil and wax play important roles in maintaining a cutting board, but they serve different purposes:

Oiling (Using Food-Grade Mineral Oil):

✔ Penetrates Deep into the Wood to keep it hydrated and prevent drying or cracking.
✔ Repels Water by filling the wood’s pores, reducing moisture absorption.
✔ Needs Frequent Application (every few weeks or when the board looks dry).

Waxing (Using Cutting Board Wax – a Blend of Beeswax & Mineral Oil):

✔ Creates a Protective Top Layer that seals in oil and repels water, stains, and bacteria.
✔ Gives a Smooth, Slightly Glossy Finish that feels great and reduces grain raising.
✔ Lasts Longer than Oil Alone, needing application every 1-2 months.

Best Practice:

  • Use oil first to deeply nourish the board.

  • Follow up with wax for an added protective layer.

________________________________________

Why does a food safe mineral oil finish needs conditioning:

  1. Prevents Drying and Cracking: Wood naturally loses moisture over time, and oil replenishes it to prevent cracks and splits.

  2. Repels Water and Moisture: Oil fills the wood’s pores, creating a barrier that reduces water absorption and minimizes grain raising.

  3. Maintains Smoothness: Regular oiling keeps the surface supple and prevents roughness, reducing the need for frequent sanding.

  4. Enhances Durability: A well-oiled board is more resistant to warping, shrinking, and swelling caused by temperature and humidity changes.

  5. Protects Against Stains and Odors: Oil prevents deep penetration of food particles, juices, and bacteria, making the board easier to clean and more hygienic.

________________________________________

After using my board, it feels rough or like there are splinters:

If your cutting board has developed splinters after getting wet and the grain has raised, follow these steps to smooth it out:

  1. Dry the Board Completely: Let the board air dry thoroughly to prevent further damage. Avoid excessive heat, as it can cause warping.

  2. Sand the Surface: Sand with fine-grit sandpaper (220-400 grit) for a smooth finish. Always sand in the direction of the grain.

If you don’t have sandpaper, you can use these alternatives to smooth out splinters on your cutting board:

  1. Steel Wool (Fine Grade - #000 or #0000): Works well for light smoothing and polishing the surface.

  2. Scraping with a Razor Blade or Card Scraper: A sharp blade can carefully shave down rough fibers.

  3. Scouring Pad (Like Scotch-Brite): Can smooth minor roughness, especially when used with mineral oil.

  4. Scrub Daddy Pad: See the next section on how to use a Scrub Daddy on a cutting board.

After the smooth feels smoother:

  1. Remove Dust: Wipe the board with a damp cloth or use a vacuum to clear off any wood dust before proceeding.

  2. Recondition with Oil: Apply food-grade mineral oil or walnut oil liberally to restore moisture balance and protect the board from future water absorption.

  3. Apply a Wax Finish (Optional): For extra protection, finish with a beeswax and mineral oil blend, buffing it in for a smooth, water-resistant surface.

For best results, regularly oil your board and avoid soaking it in water to prevent future grain raising.

________________________________________

How to Use a Scrub Daddy on a Cutting Board:

  • For Daily Cleaning: Use the soft side with warm, soapy water to remove food debris.

  • For Deep Cleaning: Use the firmer side (when cold) to gently scrub stains or raised grain without being too abrasive.

  • For Odor Removal: Sprinkle baking soda or coarse salt on the board, then scrub with a Scrub Daddy and some lemon juice or vinegar.

Just avoid excessive water exposure on wooden boards and always dry and oil them after cleaning to maintain their longevity!

________________________________________

Why to use Baking Soda on a Cutting Board:

  1. Deodorizing: Sprinkle baking soda over the board, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a damp sponge or brush.

  2. Deep Cleaning: Mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste, scrub the surface, and rinse thoroughly.

  3. Stain Removal: Combine baking soda with lemon juice or vinegar for extra stain-lifting power—scrub, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse.

Always dry the board completely and apply mineral oil after cleaning to prevent drying out the wood. Let me know if you need more care tips!

________________________________________

My board has started to warp or is uneven:

A wooden cutting board can still warp even if it is food-safe because warping is caused by uneven moisture absorption and drying rather than the safety of the materials. Here’s why it happens:

1. Uneven Moisture Exposure

  • Wood naturally absorbs and releases moisture. If one side of the board dries faster than the other, it will shrink at a different rate, causing the board to bend or warp.

  • Washing one side more than the other or leaving it wet on a damp surface can contribute to this imbalance.

2. Improper Drying

  • If a cutting board is left flat to dry, the side exposed to air will dry faster, while the underside retains moisture, leading to warping.

  • Boards should be dried on their side or in an upright position to allow even airflow.

3. Water Soaking

  • Leaving a wooden board submerged in water or running it through a dishwasher can cause excessive moisture absorption, leading to swelling and uneven drying.

4. Heat and Humidity Changes

  • Placing a board near a heat source (like a stove) or in a humid environment can cause the wood to expand and contract unpredictably, leading to warping

If your cutting board has started to warp, follow these steps to try to fix it:

  • Moisture Balancing: Lay the board on a flat surface with the concave (curved inward) side facing down. The convex (curved outward) side is drying faster, so mist that side with water and let it sit overnight.

  • Weigh It Down: Place a heavy, flat object (like books or a baking sheet with weights) on top to encourage flattening.

  • Steam It Gently: Lightly steam the warped side using a damp towel and an iron on low heat to soften the wood before pressing it flat.

  • Gradual Drying: Store the board in a dry area with even air circulation to prevent further warping.

Prevention Tips:

  • Always dry wooden boards evenly by standing them upright.

  • Avoid soaking wood boards in water for long periods.

  • Store boards in a dry, cool place with good airflow.

  • Flip the board regularly during use to distribute wear evenly.