• Hand wash only using hot, soapy water.
• Rinse thoroughly with hot water.
• Dry immediately, then stand the board on its side or place it in a rack.
• Never allow it to dry flat, as this can lead to warping.

White Vinegar Method

Spray white vinegar onto the surface. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe with a warm, damp cloth.

Salt & Lemon Method

• Lightly dampen the board with warm water.
• Sprinkle coarse salt over the surface.
• Cut a lemon in half and scrub with the cut side, squeezing gently to release juice.
• Allow the mixture to stand for 5 minutes.
• Scrub with a brush and wipe clean.
  

Recommended every few months, or whenever water no longer beads on the surface.

Mineral Oil Treatment (optional)

• Apply food-grade mineral oil liberally to all sides until the board looks evenly wet.
• Reapply if dry spots appear.
• Stand the board upright or place it on a rack and allow the oil to soak in for several hours (overnight is ideal).
• Wipe off any excess.

Board Cream

• Using a soft cloth, rub a thin layer of board cream into the surface.
• Allow it to absorb for 15-20 minutes.
• Buff with a clean cotton cloth in circular motions until smooth.

Board cream is available from 609 Wood Design. Walrus Oil's Wood Wax for Cutting Boards OR Howard Butcher Block Conditioner is also a suitable alternative.

If deep knife marks or scratches develop, you can restore the board at home.

Recommended grits: 100, 180, and 240

Tools: A random-orbit sander is ideal, but hand sanding works (always sand with the grain).

• Begin with 100 grit to remove deeper marks.
• Move to 180 grit to smooth the surface.
• Finish with 240 grit for a fine, even texture.
• Remove all sanding dust.
• Reapply mineral oil and board cream as described in the maintenance section.

To avoid damaging the board, never:

• Never Submerge it in water
• Never Allow it to dry flat
• Never Put it in the dishwasher
• Never Put it in the microwave
• Never Use bleach (it can stain and dry the wood)

How do I clean my cutting board?

Hand wash with hot, soapy water and rinse with hot water. Dry immediately and stand the board on its side or in a rack.

Can I put my board in the dishwasher?

No. Dishwashers cause warping, cracking, and can break down the glue joints.

Why can’t the board dry flat?

Drying flat traps moisture on one side, causing the board to warp or cup. Always dry standing upright.

How do I remove stains or odors?

Use either:

• White vinegar: Spray, let sit, wipe clean.
  
• Salt & lemon: Scrub coarse salt with half a lemon, let sit 5 minutes, then wipe.
  

How often should I oil my board?

Every few months, or whenever water stops beading on the surface. Heavy-use boards may need more frequent oiling.

What type of oil should I use?

Use food-grade mineral oil. Do not use cooking oils (olive, coconut, etc.) because they can go rancid.

What’s the difference between oil and board cream?

• Mineral oil penetrates the wood and hydrates it.
  
• Board cream (oil + beeswax) seals the surface and adds water resistance.
  
  Using both gives the best protection.
  

How do I oil my board?

Apply a generous coat of mineral oil on all sides. Let it soak for several hours (overnight is best), then wipe off any excess.

Do I need to use board cream?

It's highly recommended. It improves water resistance and keeps the board looking smooth and conditioned.

Can I sand and refinish my board?

Yes. Use 100 → 180 → 240 grit sandpaper (or a random-orbit sander), then clean the dust and reapply oil and board cream.

What products do you recommend for maintenance?

Our own 609 Wood Design Board Cream, Howard Butcher Block Conditioner, or Walrus Oil's Wood Wax for Cutting Boards as an alternative.

Can I use bleach on my board?

No. Bleach can stain, dry out, and damage the wood fibers.

Can I use my board as a serving board too?

Absolutely. Your board is perfect for both prep and presentation—as long as it’s cleaned and dried properly afterward.