How to Clean and Care for a Wooden Cutting Board

Wood cutting boards, like our beautiful Acacia End Grain Cutting Board, are ideal for various kitchen cutting tasks. Although some cutting board tasks may not require careful cleaning, handling meat and other foods can lead to significant messes and bacterial growth. For this reason, carefully cleaning your wooden cutting board is an essential part of its upkeep. Let's learn how to clean a wooden cutting board to protect it against bacterial growth and damage.

A person slices cooked poultry on a large, rectangular acacia wood cutting board with a grooved perimeter and a well-defined end-grain pattern.

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Why Wooden Cutting Boards Need Proper Care

Wooden cutting boards need proper care because of their porous construction. Liquids from food, juices and water can cause damage such as warping, cracking and splitting. Without appropriate care, the openings in your wooden cutting board can harbor bacteria that can contaminate your food. If you know how to sanitize a wood cutting board, you are less likely to experience the dangers of bacteria exposure.

Your wooden cutting board is also susceptible to bacterial growth through the microscopic openings left behind after using your Japanese Master Chef Knife Set or any sharp blades. Proper preparation protects your cutting board and helps minimize damage from wear and tear.

A set of eight Seido knives with dark wood handles are arranged on a light wood cutting board, angled against a white background with vegetables and a glass of whiskey

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

You need only a few tools, but the right ones help make cleaning a wooden cutting board easier. Gather them before you start, and prepare to clean and protect your board.

Mild Dish Soap

You should never use harsh cleaning chemicals or bleach on wooden cutting boards. Mild dish liquid is the safest cleaning solution.

A blue sponge and a clear bottle of dish soap sit on a folded light blue microfiber cloth against a solid blue background

Warm Water

Fill a basin or sink with warm water. Do not use overly hot water, as this can cause the wood fibers to expand and cause damage.

A hand in a blue glove washes a bamboo cutting board with soapy water in a stainless steel sink.

Sponge or Soft Brush

A sponge or soft brush can help you clean your wooden cutting board so it's ready for our 13-piece Awabi Knife Block Set. It’s best not to use an abrasive sponge or overly stiff brush, as they can damage your cutting board.

Two blue sponges, a blue-bristled brush, and a white spray bottle with a red nozzle are arranged on a white background.

White Vinegar or Lemon Juice (Optional)

You do not have to use white vinegar or lemon juice, but they can help reduce bacteria. Their acidic natures can help impede bacterial growth.

Mineral Oil

Mineral oil for wooden cutting boards helps prevent them from drying out, making them less likely to be damaged by a lack of moisture. It is important to choose food-grade mineral oil.

A hand holds a paper towel, wiping a clear liquid off a butcher block wood countertop with a distinct end-grain pattern and a dark, circular wet spot.

Cleaning Your Wooden Cutting Board

Cleaning is an essential part of wood cutting board care. You will become a pro after learning how to clean a wooden cutting board!

Step One

Remove any stuck-on food residue from the cutting board. Dislodging the food will help you give it a deeper clean, ensuring your food will be free from contamination.

Close-up of a person using a mezzaluna knife to chop food on a wooden cutting board

Step Two

Wet your sponge or brush and apply a few drops of mild dish liquid. Work with and against the grain as you clean. Using your soft brush, pay special attention to cracks and crevices.

A hand scrubs a soapy wooden cutting board under a running faucet in a stainless steel sink with a blurred kitchen background

Step Three

Rinse the board with warm water, and wipe away the excess water with a clean, dry towel. Remove as much water as possible, and prop the cutting board on its side to dry thoroughly.

Person washing a bamboo cutting board in a sink with running water.

To deter bacteria, use vinegar or lemon juice once a week. Rub the vinegar into the wood with a soft cloth, rinse and allow it to dry before oiling. Using vinegar is one of the best ways to learn how to sanitize a wood cutting board.

Oiling and Maintaining Your Wooden Cutting Board

Once dry, apply a generous layer of food-grade mineral oil to the board. Use a paper towel or soft cloth to rub the oil into the grain, and coat all sides thoroughly. Let the oil soak in overnight, and then wipe away the excess.

Dos and Don’ts for Wooden Cutting Board Care

Do use mild dish liquid or a gentle castile soap on your cutting board. Don't use harsh powder cleaners, bleach or glass cleaners.
Do use a soft cloth and gentle scrubbing motions. Don't use steel wool or any overly stiff brush that could cause scratches.
Do sanitize your wooden cutting board with vinegar or lemon juice to stop bacterial growth. Don't use bleach or antibacterial cleaners.

Keep Your Wooden Cutting Board in Top Shape

A well-maintained wooden cutting board is both a kitchen essential and a lasting investment. With proper care and the right techniques, you can preserve its beauty and functionality for years to come. Look through our vast inventory today at Seido Knives, because we have the tools you need to master your kitchen!

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