1. Daily Cleaning & Washing
Hand-wash only: Immediately after use, scrub your board with warm water and a mild dish soap using a soft sponge or cloth.
Wash both sides: Always rinse and wipe down both sides of the board—even if you only used one. This ensures the wood absorbs moisture evenly, preventing it from warping or bowing.
Dry completely: Wipe the board down with a clean towel immediately after washing. Stand it upright on its edge to air-dry completely before storing it away.
2. Maintenance (Oiling & Conditioning)
Your board has been deeply seasoned with a food-safe blend of pure mineral oil and butcher block conditioner (a mix of mineral oil, beeswax, and carnauba wax). Over time, washing will naturally strip these protective oils away.
When to condition: When your board looks dry, feels slightly rough, or lighter in color, it’s time for a refresh. For regular use, this is usually once a month.
How to apply:
Ensure the board is completely clean and dry.
Apply a generous amount of food-grade mineral oil or butcher block conditioner directly to the wood.
Use a soft cloth or a paper towel to buff the conditioner into the wood, following the direction of the grain.
Let it sit for at least 20 minutes (or overnight) to soak in, then buff away any excess with a clean, dry cloth.
🛑 The "Never" List (Crucial Warnings)
To prevent cracking, splitting, or warping, please strictly observe the following rules:
NEVER put the board in the dishwasher. The intense heat and prolonged exposure to water will destroy the wood fibers and completely ruin the board on the very first cycle.
NEVER submerge or soak the board in water. Leaving a wood board sitting in a sink full of water causes the wood to swell, which leads to warping and splitting.
NEVER use harsh chemicals. Avoid bleach, abrasive scrubbing pads, or heavy chemical cleaners, which strip the protective finish and damage the wood.
NEVER put the board in the microwave or oven. Extreme heat will dry out the wood instantly and cause severe cracking.
NEVER store it flat while wet. Always prop it up on its side to dry so air can circulate around the entire board.
Deep Cleaning & Deodorizing (As Needed)
If you've been cutting onions, garlic, or highly fragrant foods, you can easily refresh your board using natural household ingredients:
To remove odors: Sprinkle a generous amount of coarse salt over the board, cut a lemon in half, and use the lemon (cut-side down) to scrub the salt into the wood. Rinse with warm water and dry thoroughly.
To sanitize: Mist the board lightly with pure white vinegar, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it clean with a damp cloth and towel dry.
With just a little bit of regular upkeep, your board will develop a gorgeous patina over time and remain a centerpiece in your kitchen for generations!