Proper care and maintenance are the keys to maintaining your cutting boards, whether made of wood, bamboo, or other materials, stay in top condition.
One of the easiest ways to maintain your natural cutting boards is to oil them regularly. But which oil should you use?
Let’s break down everything you need to know about the best oil for cutting boards, including why it’s important to use the right one and which types of oils are best for keeping your boards in pristine shape.
TL;DR - What Oil is Best for Cutting Boards?
Here are some of the best oils to keep your cutting boards in good shape for years to come:
- Food-grade mineral oil
- Coconut oil
- Linseed oil
- Grapeseed oil
- Walnut oil
- Bamboo oil
- Hemp oil
- Tung oil
- Beeswax
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Benefits of Oiling Cutting Boards
Before we discuss the specifics of the oils themselves, it’s important to understand why oiling is necessary.
Here’s how it transforms your cutting board into a long-lasting kitchen tool:
- Prevent Drying and Cracking: Wooden and bamboo chopping boards naturally lose moisture over time, especially with frequent washing. Oiling them regularly prevents the wood from drying out, reducing the risk of cracks and splits that could happen over time and compromise the board’s functionality.
- Boosts Durability: A well-oiled board can withstand the constant pressure of knives, reducing wear and tear and extending its lifespan.
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Enhances Appearance: Oiling doesn’t just maintain functionality but makes your cutting board look stunning. It brings out the natural grain and richness of the wood, making it a centerpiece in your kitchen.
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Creates a Protective Barrier: Oil fills the pores of the wood, making it less absorbent. This means fewer stains, reducing bacteria buildup, and a cleaner, safer surface for food preparation.
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Restores and Revives: Does your cutting board look a bit worse for wear? Regular oiling can give it new life, reviving its natural shine and improving performance.
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Makes Cleaning Easier: By sealing the surface, oiling helps prevent liquids and food particles from sinking into the wood. This makes your cutting board easier to clean and maintain over time.
Now that you know why it’s important, let’s examine the best oils for cutting boards and determine which is perfect for your needs.
Best Oils for Cutting Boards
There’s a wide range of oils out there, and choosing the right one can seem daunting.
Don’t worry—we’ll review the most popular options and help you understand which is best for your cutting board:
Mineral Oil for Cutting Boards
Mineral oil is one of the most commonly recommended oils for cutting boards. It’s food-safe, affordable, and easy to apply.
Mineral oil is especially effective for wood or bamboo cutting boards. It soaks deep into the board to create a protective seal, preventing moisture damage and cracking.
Best Mineral Oil for Cutting Boards
When choosing mineral oils, use food-grade mineral oil for cutting boards.
The best options are often labeled as “food-safe” and are made explicitly for kitchenware, ensuring they are safe for direct contact with food.
Is Mineral Oil Safe for Cutting Boards?
Yes, mineral oil for wood cutting boards is safe when used correctly. It’s non-toxic, odorless, and won’t go rancid like some natural oils. Only if it’s FDA approved and food-safe.
These reasons make it one of the safest options for oiling wooden and bamboo cutting boards.
Coconut Oil for Cutting Boards
If you’re looking for a more natural oil, coconut oil is another popular choice for cutting boards.
It’s known for its antimicrobial properties, which can help protect your board from bacteria. Plus, it’s rich in fatty acids that nourish and protect the wood.
Fractionated Coconut Oil for Cutting Boards
A specific form of coconut oil that removes long-chain fatty acids is fractionated coconut oil.
It is an excellent option for oiling cutting boards because it remains liquid at room temperature. Unlike regular coconut oil, it won’t solidify and create a greasy film on your cutting board.
It also absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a sticky residue.
Is Coconut Oil Good for Cutting Boards?
Coconut oil can be effective on cutting boards if applied carefully, but it is not always the best oil for long-term protection of wooden cutting boards.
It can help maintain a soft and shiny finish, but it’s more prone to become rancid and sticky over time.
Linseed Oil for Cutting Boards
Linseed oil, derived from flax seeds, is a traditional choice for wood care.
This natural oil penetrates deeply into the wood, offering protection and enhancing the grain without introducing harmful additives.
When opting for linseed oil for cutting boards, ensure it’s food-grade for safety purposes.
Is Boiled Linseed Oil Safe for Cutting Boards?
No! Boiled linseed oil for cutting boards contains toxic additives, so steer clear. It is often treated with chemicals and becomes toxic for human use.
Always go for food-grade linseed oil to keep your board safe.
Food-Grade Oils for Cutting Boards
When choosing an oil for your cutting board, picking a food-grade oil is crucial to ensure safety.
Here are some oils you can consider in this category:
Grapeseed Oil for Cutting Boards
Grapeseed oil is a lesser-known but excellent choice for cutting boards. It’s a light, odorless oil that offers good protection without leaving a greasy residue.
This oil is particularly beneficial for bamboo cutting boards, as it is less likely to darken the wood.
Walnut Oil for Cutting Boards
Another great option is walnut oil for cutting boards. It’s food-safe, creates a nice finish, and is especially good if you have a wooden cutting board.
Just be aware that if you or someone in your house has a nut allergy, you might want to skip this one.
Bamboo Oil for Cutting Boards
If you’re working with a bamboo board, you’ll want to choose an oil specifically designed for bamboo.
Bamboo oil is a very good choice for cutting boards. It’s formulated to penetrate bamboo fibers, keeping the board hydrated and protected from cracking.
However, it isn’t just for bamboo boards—it works well for wood-cutting boards, too.
Hemp Oil for Cutting Boards
Hemp oil is a more eco-friendly option that offers excellent protection and nourishment for wooden cutting boards.
It penetrates deeply into the wood, creating a durable finish that helps maintain the board’s appearance over time.
Tung Oil for Cutting Boards
Tung oil is a natural drying oil derived from the seeds of the tung tree, which is native to China and other parts of Asia.
When applied properly, it provides a durable, water-resistant finish to cutting boards.
It's commonly recommended for wooden cutting boards due to its hardening properties. It creates a protective surface that helps prevent moisture damage.
Is Tung Oil Safe for Cutting Boards?
Yes! Tung oil for cutting boards is safe if it’s 100% pure. Avoid blends that contain solvents or other chemicals. Pure tung oil will create a durable, food-safe finish for your cutting board.
Beeswax for Cutting Boards
While not technically an oil, beeswax for cutting boards can be a great option when used in conjunction with oils.
It provides an extra layer of protection, preventing moisture from seeping into the wood and keeping your cutting board shiny and new.
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Cutting Board Oils to Avoid
While plenty of oils work well for cutting boards, you must avoid some oils. These oils can negatively impact the longevity of your board, cause unpleasant odors, or make the surface sticky and prone to damage.
Here are some oils to steer clear of:
Olive Oil for Cutting Boards
Despite its popularity in cooking, olive oil is not the best choice for cutting boards. It can go rancid over time, creating unpleasant odors and making your cutting board sticky.
Olive oil also tends to turn thick and tacky as they age, attracting dust, dirt, and food particles.
Canola Oil for Cutting Boards
Like olive oil, canola oil is another common cooking oil that should not be used on cutting boards.
While it may seem harmless, it can also turn rancid over time, creating an unpleasant smell and leaving a sticky residue.
Vegetable Oil for Cutting Boards
Vegetable oil also has a high chance of going rancid. It can cause your cutting board to develop a foul odor and an unpleasant, sticky surface.
Additionally, this oil is not an excellent match for wooden cutting boards, as it can compromise the wood's integrity and cleanliness.
Sesame Oil for Cutting Boards
Although sesame oil is a popular cooking oil, it’s not the best choice for cutting boards.
Sesame oil can quickly go rancid, causing a foul smell and sticky residue. Additionally, its non-drying nature also makes it unsuitable for creating a durable, protective finish on wood.
While oils like olive oil, vegetable oil, and flaxseed oil may be great for cooking in your kitchen, they are not suitable for cutting boards. Stick to food-safe, stable oils like mineral, coconut, or beeswax for the best results in maintaining your cutting board.
Best Practices and Tips for Maintaining Your Cutting Board
Now that you know which oils are the best, here are some tips for maintaining your cutting board:
- Wash Regularly: After each use, wash your cutting board with warm water and mild soap. Use a soft sponge to avoid damaging the wood.
- Avoid Soaking: Do not let your cutting board sit in water since it can cause the wood to warp or crack.
- Sanitize Occasionally: For deep cleaning, sprinkle salt or baking soda on the board and scrub with a cut lemon. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
- Skip the Dishwasher: Never put wooden or bamboo cutting boards in the dishwasher. The heat and prolonged water exposure can cause irreversible damage.
- Use Beeswax for Extra Protection: For a durable, long-lasting finish, consider applying a mixture of beeswax and oil to your cutting board.
How to Oil a Cutting Board
Oiling a cutting board is simple:
- Clean your board thoroughly and dry it completely.
- Apply oil generously with a clean cloth or paper towel.
- Rub the oil into the wood, ensuring it soaks in evenly. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes.
- Buff off any excess oil with a clean cloth.
How Often to Oil a Cutting Board
The frequency of oil on your cutting board depends on its usage.
- For boards used daily, apply oil every 2–4 weeks or whenever the wood appears dry.
- For less frequently used boards, oiling once a month or so is sufficient.
How to Clean a Wooden Cutting Board
Cleaning your wooden cutting board is easy. Simply use warm, soapy water and a soft sponge. Dry it thoroughly after cleaning to prevent moisture buildup.
Avoid putting it in the dishwasher, as the heat and water can damage the wood or bamboo.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here is some additional information regarding why and how to oil a wooden cutting board to keep it in good shape:
How Do You Store a Cutting Board After Oiling?
After oiling your cutting board, it’s important to let it cure properly before storing it.
Here’s how you can cure it:
- Let It Sit: Allow the board to rest in a well-ventilated area for at least 24 hours to ensure the oil is fully absorbed and the surface is dry.
- Avoid Stacking: Do not stack freshly oiled boards; it can trap moisture and create uneven curing.
- Store Upright: Place the cutting board upright or on its edge in a dry, cool location. This prevents moisture buildup and ensures even air circulation around the board.
How Do You Remove Excess Oil From a Cutting Board?
If you’ve applied too much oil, the board may feel sticky or greasy. Here’s how to fix it:
- Buff the Surface: Use a clean, lint-free cloth or paper towel to gently buff off the excess oil.
- Use Warm, Soapy Water: If the stickiness persists, lightly clean the board with warm water and mild dish soap, then dry thoroughly.
- Reapply Sparingly Next Time: To avoid over-oiling in the future, start with a small amount of oil and add more only as needed.
What Are the Signs of a Well-Oiled Cutting Board?
An adequately oiled cutting board will exhibit the following characteristics:
- Rich and Even Appearance: The wood should look vibrant, with a consistent sheen across the surface.
- Smooth Texture: A well-oiled board feels smooth and soft without being greasy or sticky.
- Water Resistance: Water droplets should bead on the surface instead of soaking into the wood.
- No Cracks or Dry Spots: Regularly oiled boards don’t show cracks and remain in excellent condition over time.
Conclusion - What is the Best Oil for Cutting Boards?
The right oil for your cutting board makes all the difference in its longevity and beauty. Regular oiling, whether with mineral oil, coconut oil, or beeswax, keeps your board nourished, protected, and looking great.
Just remember to avoid oils that can go rancid, like olive or vegetable oil, and stick to food-safe, long-lasting options.
With proper care, your cutting board can last for years, bringing beauty and practicality to your kitchen.
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