How to Care for Your Wooden Cutting Board – Cleaning, Conditioning & Long-Term Maintenance

You’ve just ordered a handcrafted wooden cutting board — it’s beautiful, sturdy, and smells like real wood. Whether you chose a sleek edge-grain or a luxurious end-grain, your board is built to last.
But here’s the secret: it needs just a little care and love to stay that way.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to keep your cutting board clean, conditioned, and looking great for years.

Daily Cleaning – Do’s & Don’ts

After each use:

  1. Wipe off food debris with a paper towel or damp cloth.
  2. Wash with mild dish soap and warm water using a soft sponge.
  3. Rinse and dry immediately with a clean towel.
  4. Let it air dry standing up to allow airflow on all sides. (Lay it flat with space underneath if it’s an end grain board.)

Avoid:

  • Putting it in the dishwasher
  • Soaking it in water
  • Using harsh chemicals or scouring pads

These will damage the wood, cause cracking, or ruin the finish.

Oiling Your Board – The Key to Longevity

Wood is like skin — it dries out over time. Oiling your board keeps it hydrated, protected, and less likely to absorb moisture or odors.

When to oil:

  • New board: once a week for the first month
  • Regular use: once every 3–4 weeks (or when the wood looks dry or rough)

What to use:

  • Food-grade mineral oil
  • Beeswax-based conditioner

How to oil:

  1. Make sure your board is clean and fully dry.
  2. Apply a generous amount of oil or conditioner with a lint-free cloth.
  3. Let it soak in for a few hours or overnight.
  4. Wipe off excess and buff gently.

Deodorizing & Deep Cleaning

Sometimes your board needs a reset — especially after cutting onions, garlic, or meat.

Try this natural method:

  1. Sprinkle coarse salt or baking soda.
  2. Cut a lemon in half and scrub the board with it.
  3. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
  4. Rinse and dry as usual.
  5. Apply oil afterward if needed.

This not only removes smells but gently exfoliates the surface.

What If It Dries Out or Cracks?

If your board feels rough, dull, or is starting to show small cracks:

  • Sand lightly with fine-grit sandpaper (only if needed)
  • Oil generously and let it rest overnight
  • Repeat once or twice over the next week

Still unsure? Contact us — we’ll guide you based on the board you bought from us.

Storage Tips

Where you store your board matters too!

  • Keep it upright or on its side (not flat all the time)
  • Store in a cool, dry place away from heat or direct sunlight
  • Don’t leave it under wet dishes or near the sink

In Summary – Wooden Board Care Checklist

Clean after useEvery time
Dry uprightEvery time
Oil/ConditionEvery 3–4 weeks
Deep cleanMonthly or as needed
Re-sand (lightly)If surface gets rough

A Well-Cared Board is a Board That Lasts

At Hunarmand™, we craft boards that are meant to be used — not just admired. With just a little routine care, your cutting board will stay as beautiful and functional as the day it arrived.

And if you ever need guidance, reach out! We’re happy to help.

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