Cutting Board Maintenance - Tung Oil

Maintaining a cutting board with a 100% pure tung oil finish is a great way to preserve and protect the natural beauty of the wood. Follow these steps to maintain your cutting board with a tung oil finish:

Materials:
  • 100% pure tung oil
  • Clean, dry cloth or paper towel
  • Fine-grit sandpaper (optional)
Instructions:
  1. Start by cleaning 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.
  2. If your cutting board has any scratches or rough spots, you can use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth them out. Sand gently in the direction of the grain until the surface is smooth.
  3. Dry the cutting board with a clean cloth or paper towel, and let it air dry completely before applying the tung oil.
  4. Apply a thin coat of 100% pure tung oil to the entire surface of the cutting board, using a clean, dry cloth or paper towel. Be sure to cover the entire surface, including the edges.
  5. Allow the oil to soak in for 30 minutes to an hour, and then wipe off any excess oil with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel. Repeat this process until the surface of the cutting board feels smooth and well-oiled.
  6. To maintain the finish, repeat this process every 3-6 months or as needed. Tung oil is a natural finish that will wear away over time, especially with frequent use, so regular maintenance is important to keep the cutting board well-protected.
Tips:
  • Tung oil is a natural drying oil that hardens when exposed to air, so be sure to dispose of any oil-soaked rags or cloths properly to prevent them from spontaneously combusting.
  • Tung oil can take several days or even weeks to fully cure, depending on the temperature and humidity of your environment. Avoid using your cutting board until the finish is fully cured.
  • Avoid exposing your cutting board to extreme temperatures or humidity, as this can cause the wood to warp or crack.
  • Discard any cutting boards that have deep cracks, splits, or excessive wear, as these can harbor bacteria and are difficult to clean properly.