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Home & Kitchen with Caraway
How To Oil a Cutting Board and Wooden Utensils
Oiling your cutting boards and wooden utensils might not be the flashiest kitchen task, but itâs one of the most important steps to keep your tools in top shape. These kitchen staples are more than just workhorsesâtheyâre investments, and like any investment, they need care.
At Caraway , we know the difference proper maintenance can make. Thatâs why weâre breaking down everything you need to know about oiling.
What Is Oiling?
Oiling is a simple process that keeps your wooden kitchen tools in top shape . It involves applying a food-safe oil or cream to your cutting boards, butcher blocks, and utensils to condition the wood and protect it from everyday use.
The goal is straightforward: maintain the natural structure of the wood so it performs the way it should. Oiling works by sealing the surface, keeping the wood hydrated, and preventing it from soaking up liquids or odors. Itâs a small but essential step to ensure your tools stay reliable, no matter how often you use them.
What Are the Benefits of Oiling Wooden Cookware?
Weâve covered what oiling is, but why bother doing it? While there are plenty of good reasons to keep your wooden kitchen tools oiled, here are the ones that make the biggest impact.
Prevents Warping and Cracking
Wood is a natural material , so itâs always movingâexpanding when itâs wet and shrinking as it dries. Without oiling, that constant cycle can lead to cracks, splits, or a warped surface on your cutting boards and butcher blocks.
A well-oiled surface helps stabilize the wood by keeping it from soaking up too much moisture or drying out completely. That means fewer headaches and no surprises when you pull out your end grain cutting board for meal prep.
Extends the Life of Your Tools
Oiling helps protect your wooden cutting boards, utensils, and kitchen tools from everyday wear and tear. It creates a barrier that keeps out water, stains, and even lingering odors from things like garlic or onions. By taking the time to oil them regularly, youâre adding years to their lifespanâand saving yourself from having to replace them anytime soon.
Keeps Things Cleaner
Oiling doesnât just protect the woodâit also makes it easier to clean. When the surface is properly conditioned, youâre less likely to have food particles or liquids getting trapped in the woodâs pores.
A quick scrub with soapy water is all youâll need to keep your wood boards fresh and ready for the next use. Plus, a smoother surface means fewer nooks and crannies where bacteria could hide.
What Types of Oils Are Best for Wood Oiling?
Wondering which oils are best for keeping your cutting boards, butcher blocks, and wooden utensils in great shape? The key is using oils that are food-safe, long-lasting, and wonât go rancid.
Here are the best options to care for your wooden kitchen tools:
Food-Safe Mineral Oil
If youâre looking for the most reliable option, food-grade mineral oil is the way to go . Itâs odorless, tasteless, and absorbs easily into the wood to hydrate and protect without leaving any residue.
Itâs perfect for all kinds of wood cutting boards, from bamboo cutting boards to end grain cutting boards, and even larger surfaces like butcher blocks. Plus, itâs widely available as cutting board oil, making it an easy go-to for regular maintenance.
Walnut Oil and Coconut Oil
For those who prefer natural oils, walnut oil and coconut oil are solid choices. Walnut oil dries hard and creates a strong protective barrier, while coconut oil is great for regular conditioning, especially since it has natural antibacterial properties. Just make sure youâre using pure, food-safe versions of these oils.
Beeswax
For extra protection, beeswax is a fantastic option, especially when mixed with mineral oil to create a thicker board cream. It adds a water-resistant layer, which is perfect for wood surfaces that see a lot of moisture, like kitchen countertops or frequently used utensils. Beeswax also helps seal the edges of end grain boards, where the wood is more prone to absorbing liquids.
Pure Tung Oil and Linseed Oil
If youâre looking for a natural, durable wood finish, pure tung oil and linseed oil are great picks. These oils dry and cure into a hard, protective layer, offering excellent long-term protection. They take longer to apply and fully cure, so theyâre best for projects like DIY woodworking or pieces that donât need immediate use, such as a new board.
What Oils Should You Avoid?
Just like there are oils that work wonders for your wooden kitchen tools, there are also oils you should stay far away from. Some oils may seem convenient, but they can do more harm than good in the long run.
Vegetable Oil
It might be tempting to grab some vegetable oil from the pantry, but itâs a bad idea for wood care. These oils can go rancid quickly, leaving your wooden board with an unpleasant smell and a sticky surface thatâs hard to clean. Over time, rancid oil can also attract bacteria , which is the opposite of what you want for food contact surfaces.
Olive Oil
Although olive oil is a kitchen staple, itâs not a great choice for oiling wood. Like vegetable oil, it can spoil and leave behind a greasy, sticky residue. Plus, it doesnât absorb well into wood fibers, so it wonât provide the lasting hydration your cutting boards and wooden spoons need.
Cooking Oil
Other cooking oils like canola, sunflower, and grapeseed oil fall into the same category as olive and vegetable oils. Theyâre not designed to condition wood and can break down over time, leaving your wooden cutting boards looking and smelling worse instead of better.
How To Oil Wooden Cookware
So, youâve decided on the right oil for your cutting boards and utensilsânow what?
Follow these steps to oil your kitchen tools like a pro:
1. Wash and Air-Dry
First, give your wooden items a good cleaning with some mild soapy water. Avoid soaking themâjust a quick wash will do. Then, let them air dry completely. This is crucial because oiling damp wood could trap moisture that leads to damage down the line.
2. Rub Oil In
Once dry, take a clean cloth or paper towel and apply a generous amount of your chosen oilâbe it food-safe mineral oil, walnut oil, or a beeswax blend. Make sure to work the oil into every part of the wood, paying special attention to any nooks and edges. This step isn't just about surface-level care but deep conditioning.
3. Let Sit Overnight
After you've applied the oil, leave the wood to sit and absorb it overnight. This pause allows the oil to penetrate deeply into the pores of the wood, maximizing hydration and protection.
4. Remove Excess Oil the Next Day
The following day, check back in and wipe off any excess oil that hasnât been absorbed. A soft cloth is perfect for this. Youâre aiming for a finish that feels smooth and looks matte, not oily or slick.
The Bottom Line
And there you have itâan easy way to keep your cutting boards and wooden utensils in great shape. A little effort goes a long way in making sure they last, look good, and stay ready for anything in the kitchen.
At Caraway , weâre all about making your time in the kitchen easier and healthier. Check out our collection of thoughtfully designed, non-toxic kitchenware todayâbecause the right tools make all the difference.
Sources:
Why and How to Oil Your Wooden Cutting Board | Home & Garden | PBS
How to Oil a Cutting Board in 6 Simple Steps | MasterClass
