Care guide
How to oil a wooden cutting board
Oiling keeps a wooden cutting board from drying out, cracking and soaking up stains. It takes about ten minutes of work. Here is how I care for the boards I make by hand in my workshop in Quebec's Eastern Townships.
What you need
- Food-grade mineral oil
- A beeswax board balm (optional, but recommended)
- Two clean, lint-free cloths or paper towels
Step by step
- 1
Clean and dry the board
Wash the board with warm water and mild soap, rinse, then wipe it dry. Let it air-dry standing on its edge for a few hours, or overnight. Oil only goes into dry wood.
- 2
Choose a food-safe oil
Use food-grade mineral oil or a board balm made for cutting boards. Avoid olive, vegetable or other cooking oils: they can go rancid and leave a sticky, smelly film.
- 3
Apply a generous coat
Pour a little oil onto the board and spread it with a clean, lint-free cloth or paper towel. Cover every surface: the top, the bottom and all the edges. End-grain boards absorb a lot, so don't be shy.
- 4
Let it soak in
Leave the board to absorb the oil for at least 20 minutes, ideally a few hours or overnight. Dry-looking spots mean the wood wants more: add another thin coat.
- 5
Wipe off the excess
With a clean cloth, wipe away any oil still sitting on the surface. The board should feel smooth, not greasy.
- 6
Finish with a beeswax balm
Rub a thin layer of beeswax balm over the board, let it sit for a few minutes, then buff it with a soft cloth. The wax seals the oil in and helps the board repel water.
The balm I use on my boards
My protective balm is made of beeswax and food-grade mineral oil, in a 100 g container. It's the same finish I put on every board before it leaves the workshop.
See the board balmFrequently asked questions
How often should I oil my cutting board?
Once a month for a board used every day, and whenever the wood looks pale or feels dry. A new board benefits from oiling once a week for the first month.
Can I put my wooden board in the dishwasher?
No. Heat and long soaking dry the wood out and can make it crack or warp. Wash it by hand and dry it right away.
How do I know the board needs oil?
Sprinkle a few drops of water on it. If the water beads up, the board is protected. If it soaks in and darkens the wood, it's time to oil.
Looking for a board that will last a lifetime? Browse my handmade cutting boards.
Read this guide in French.