Caring for Your Wooden Cutting Board

Complete Care Instructions

A handcrafted wooden cutting board is built to last for decades — but only when cared for properly. Because wood is a natural material, it must be protected from excess moisture and drying.

Follow these instructions carefully to preserve the integrity and beauty of your board.

Before First Use (Required)

Your board must be conditioned with a wax-based product before first use.

Apply conditioner generously over the entire board — top, bottom, edges, and inside the grip handles. The entire board must be sealed to properly protect it from moisture imbalance.

Allow the conditioner to absorb overnight before use.

Cleaning Instructions

You do not need to wash your board after every use.

• For dry foods (bread, vegetables, fruit, cheese):
  Simply wipe clean and dry thoroughly.

• If preparing raw proteins (meat, poultry, fish):
  Wash using cold water only and a small amount of mild soap. Rinse and dry immediately.

Important:

• Use cold water only. Hot water can open the wood grain and cause stress to the fibers.
• Do not allow water to sit on the board.
• Never allow water to collect inside the grip handles.**
Water trapped inside handles can cause internal swelling and cracking.

Dry immediately after washing.

Proper Drying

Moisture must evaporate evenly.

• Boards with rubber feet may dry flat.

• Boards without feet must be propped on a rack so air circulates around the entire board.

Never leave your board flat on a wet surface.

Conditioning (Ongoing Care)

Regular conditioning is essential.

Use a wax-based conditioner (such as our Board Butter made with organic beeswax and food-safe mineral oil). Mineral oil alone is not sufficient long term protection.

Why wax-based conditioning matters:

• Creates a moisture barrier
• Prevents cracking and drying
• Lasts longer than oil alone
• Enhances the natural grain

How to Condition:

1. Ensure the board is completely clean and dry.

2. Apply conditioner across the entirety of the board — top, bottom, edges, and inside handles.

3. Allow it to absorb overnight.

4. Wipe off excess before use.

Condition every 3–4 weeks, or more often in dry climates or winter months.

If the wood appears lighter, dry, or rough — it needs conditioning.

Never Do the Following

❌ Do not put your board in the dishwasher
❌ Do not soak your board
❌ Do not use lemon, vinegar, baking soda, bleach, or harsh cleaners
❌ Do not rely on mineral oil alone
❌ Do not allow water inside grip handles

Refinishing

Light knife marks are normal. If the surface becomes rough, lightly sand with fine-grit sandpaper and fully recondition the entire board afterward.

Final Note

A wooden cutting board is an heirloom piece when properly maintained. Cold water washing, proper drying, and full-coverage wax-based conditioning will ensure your board remains stable, beautiful, and functional for years to come.

At Deer Park Woodwork, every board is handcrafted to last — proper care protects that craftsmanship.