How to care for your hardwood cutting board
A hardwood cutting board is not just a kitchen tool. It is an investment. With a little regular care it will serve you well for decades, developing character and patina along the way. The good news is that caring for your board is easier than most people think. A few simple habits done consistently is all it takes to keep it looking great and performing at its best for years to come.
What Your Board Is Built For
Hardwood cutting boards are built to take the daily abuse of a working kitchen and come out looking better for it over time. Whether you’re chopping vegetables, breaking down proteins, or putting together a charcuterie spread, a well made hardwood board is up to the task.
That said not all knives are created equal. Serrated blades like bread knives have aggressive teeth that tend to leave more visible surface marks than a straight edge blade would. Nothing a hardwood board can’t handle, it’s purely a cosmetic consideration. If preserving the appearance of your board over the long term is a priority, consider dedicating a separate board for serrated blades. Your board will perform either way.
Cleaning your cutting board
First things first, always wash your cutting board by hand. There are many effective ways to clean a cutting board, but in this guide we are going to cover the most practical and accessible method for everyday use. Dish soap, warm water, and a little elbow grease is all you need. Be sure to wash both sides of the board every time, even if you only used one side. Wood is porous and moisture can affect both surfaces regardless of which side you cut on. Whatever method you choose, the one thing that never changes is this, always wash by hand.