Cutting Board Maintenance - Mineral Oil
Maintaining a cutting board using mineral oil is a simple process that helps to keep your cutting board clean and hygienic. Follow these steps to maintain your cutting board using mineral oil:
Materials:
Materials:
- Food-grade mineral oil
- Clean, dry cloth or paper towel
- Start by washing your cutting board with warm water and mild dish soap, and then rinse it thoroughly with clean water. Make sure to remove any food residue, stains, or odors.
- Dry the cutting board with a clean cloth or paper towel, and let it air dry completely before applying the mineral oil.
- Pour a small amount of food-grade mineral oil onto the board and use a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to spread it evenly over the entire surface of the board. Be sure to cover the entire surface, including the edges.
- Allow the oil to penetrate the wood for several hours or overnight. This will help to moisturize and protect the wood.
- After the oil has had time to soak in, wipe off any excess oil with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel. The board should not feel greasy or oily to the touch.
- Repeat this process every month or as needed to keep your cutting board well-maintained and protected.
- Never use vegetable or cooking oil to maintain your cutting board, as these can turn rancid and create an unpleasant odor.
- Avoid submerging your cutting board in water or putting it in the dishwasher, as this can cause the wood to warp or crack.
- Use a separate cutting board for raw meat and poultry to avoid cross-contamination.
- Discard any cutting boards that have deep cracks, splits, or excessive wear, as these can harbor bacteria and are difficult to clean properly. Optionally, you can opt to sand them out.