A high-quality wooden cutting board should feel smooth, solid, and durable for years. So when someone notices rough patches, raised grain, or what looks like “splintering,” it’s understandably concerning.

The good news?
True splintering is almost always preventable and in most cases, it’s a combination of wood science, moisture, and care.

Let’s break down why cutting boards splinter, what’s normal, and how to stop it from happening.

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1. Wood Is a Living Material (Even After It’s Made)

Wood expands and contracts as it gains or loses moisture. Unlike plastic or glass, it responds to its environment.

When a cutting board:

• dries out

• absorbs water unevenly

• or isn’t properly conditioned

…the wood fibers can lift slightly, creating a rough texture that feels like splintering.

Important:
This is usually raised grain, not actual wood failure.

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2. Dryness Is the #1 Cause of “Splintering”

The most common reason cutting boards develop rough spots is lack of conditioning.

When wood dries out:

• fibers lose flexibility

• the surface becomes thirsty

• edges and grain ends lift

This happens most often when:

• boards are washed and not re-waxed

• only mineral oil is used (no wax barrier)

• boards are left near heat sources

• boards are new and still acclimating

A brand-new board can dry out faster than an older one if it isn’t conditioned regularly at first.

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3. End Grain Boards Need More Care (Because They Do More)

End grain cutting boards are prized for being:

• gentler on knives

• more durable

• self-healing at the cut surface

But that structure also means:

• they absorb moisture more readily

• they must be sealed properly

Without enough wax, the open grain can dry unevenly—leading to raised fibers that feel rough to the touch.

This is not a flaw.
It’s a sign the board needs conditioning.

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4. Water Is Fine—Soaking Is Not

A cutting board should never be:

• soaked in a sink

• left wet on one side

• placed in a dishwasher

Even brief soaking can cause:

• rapid moisture absorption

• uneven drying

• lifted grain or surface texture changes

Always:

• wash quickly with mild soap

• dry immediately

• store upright so air circulates evenly

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5. Not All Oils Are Equal

Mineral oil is a great starting oil—but it’s not a sealant.

Without wax:

• moisture escapes too quickly

• water penetrates too easily

• the board dries out faster

That’s why professional board care always includes a wax-based board butter.

Wax:

• locks moisture into the wood

• creates a water-resistant barrier

• prevents grain lift and roughness

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6. This Is Why Early Conditioning Matters So Much

The first few weeks of a cutting board’s life are critical.

During this time, the board is:

• acclimating to your home

• adjusting to humidity levels

• learning how it will be used

Consistent conditioning early on:

• stabilizes the fibers

• prevents dryness

• keeps the surface smooth long-term

Think of it like seasoning cast iron—the foundation matters.

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7. Is Splintering Permanent?

Almost never.

In most cases:

• proper waxing

• restores smoothness

• re-hydrates the fibers

• fully resolves the issue

That’s why surface roughness is considered a care issue, not a structural one.

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How to Prevent Cutting Board Splintering

Best practices:

• Wax regularly (especially in the first month)

• Always finish with a wax-based product like our board butter

• Never soak or dishwasher-clean

• Dry immediately after washing

• Store away from heat sources

With proper care, a quality hardwood cutting board can last decades—getting better with age.

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Final Thoughts

Wood isn’t meant to be maintenance-free—it’s meant to be maintained.

What many people call “splintering” is usually a sign that:

• the board is dry

• the wood needs nourishment

• the surface just needs a little care

When treated properly, a well-made cutting board will stay smooth, beautiful, and functional for years.