For six weeks, food writer Marian Bull rigorously tested plastic-free cutting boards. She ended up recommending four wooden options. Her own maple cutting board from John Boos has lasted nearly a decade with proper care.
How to Care for Your Wooden Cutting Board
Below, Bull shares her three-step method for preserving a wooden cutting board.
1. Wash It
Start by cleaning your cutting board. Remove any food residue and wash it with gentle soap and water. Thoroughly dry your board. To speed up the process and help it dry evenly, Bull leans hers against something, such as a dish rack or backsplash, rather than lying it flat on a towel.
2. Oil It
After your board is dry, apply a food-grade mineral oil with a clean towel. This helps prevent warping. Bull uses John Boos Mystery Oil, letting it sit overnight and wiping off excess in the morning.
3. Moisturize It
A cream can help moisturize your board and prevent cracking. Bull recommends applying cream once a month. She uses John Boos Board & Block Cream, which contains food-grade mineral oil and unbleached beeswax. Apply a small amount with a clean towel, let it sit for a few hours or overnight, then wipe away residue.
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