How to Care for Your Handcrafted Cutting Board
A quality hardwood cutting board is more than just a kitchen tool—it's an investment. At AJD, every cutting board is handcrafted to showcase the natural beauty of wood while providing years of everyday use.
With just a few minutes of maintenance each month, your board can remain beautiful and functional for many years.
Everyday Cleaning
After each use, wash your cutting board by hand with warm water and a mild dish soap. We recommend avoiding heavy-duty degreasing soaps, as they can strip the natural oils from the wood over time.
Once washed, dry the board immediately with a clean towel. Standing the board on its edge while it finishes drying allows air to circulate around both sides, helping prevent excess moisture from being trapped.
Things to Avoid
To protect your cutting board, never:
-Put it in the dishwasher.
-Leave it soaking in water.
-Use bleach, harsh cleaners, or abrasive scrubbers.
-Store it while it is still wet.
-Condition it with cooking oils such as olive, vegetable, or canola oil, which can become rancid.
Keep Your Board Conditioned
Wood is a natural material that expands and contracts with changes in moisture. Over time, regular washing can dry the wood.
When your board begins to look dull or dry, apply a food-safe cutting board oil or conditioner. Food-grade mineral oil or a beeswax and mineral oil conditioner works best.
A simple way to condition your board:
-Make sure the board is clean and completely dry.
-Apply a generous coat of food-safe board oil.
-Let it soak in for several hours or overnight.
-Wipe away any excess with a clean cloth.
Most boards benefit from conditioning every 3–4 weeks with regular use, although boards used daily may need conditioning more often.
Does Wood Really Help Resist Bacteria?
One of the reasons hardwood has remained a favorite material for cutting boards is its natural antimicrobial properties.
Research has shown that hardwood cutting boards can naturally reduce bacterial survival when they are properly cleaned and allowed to dry completely. This doesn't mean the board "sanitizes itself," but it is one reason quality wood cutting boards have been trusted in kitchens for generations.
As with any cutting surface, always wash your board thoroughly after use, especially after preparing raw meat, poultry, or seafood.
Expect Your Board to Age Beautifully
Every cutting board from AJD is unique. Differences in grain, color, knots and natural character are part of what makes each piece one of a kind.
Over time, you'll notice light knife marks and subtle changes in color. These are signs of a well-loved board and add to its story. If the surface ever becomes rough, a light sanding followed by fresh board conditioner can restore its smooth finish.
A Simple Tip for Longer Life
Many of our customers use one side of the board for food preparation and the other side for serving charcuterie, cheeses, or appetizers. It's an easy way to keep one side looking beautiful for entertaining while still enjoying your board every day.
Thank You
Thank you for supporting AJD Mercantile and choosing handcrafted over mass-produced.
We hope your cutting board becomes part of family meals, holiday gatherings, and everyday memories for years to come.
If you ever have questions about caring for your board, we're always happy to help.
AJD Mercantile
Handcrafted with care in Missouri