Have a question? We have the answers.
Why choose an end grain cutting board?
End grain cutting boards are considered the best for both durability and maintaining the sharpness of your knives. The wood fibers are positioned vertically, allowing the knife to cut between the fibers rather than across them. This not only makes the board more resilient to cuts but also prevents your knives from dulling as quickly as they would on other surfaces like plastic or edge grain boards.
How do I care for my end grain cutting board?
To keep your board in prime condition:
- Wash with warm water and mild soap after each use.
- Avoid soaking or submerging it in water.
- Dry immediately with a towel and allow it to fully air dry by standing it on edge.
- Every 3-4 weeks apply food-grade mineral oil to keep the wood hydrated and protected. Rub in a generous amount and allow it to soak in, then wipe away the excess.
- After oiling apply a board butter for an extra layer of protection (optional)
Can I put my end grain cutting board in the dishwasher?
No! I mean you could but it would cause permanent damage so please don’t. The combination of heat and water in a dishwasher will cause the board to warp, crack or split. Also, the chemicals in dishwasher drying agents and detergents are too harsh for the boards.
Always hand wash and immediately dry your board. If your board does not have feet allow it to fully air dry by standing it on its edge.
Why does my board feel rough or look dull?
Like your skin, when your board dries out will start looking dull and feel rough as the board loses moisture.
Restore the board’s vibrance and smooth texture by applying food-grade mineral oil and rubbing it in on all surfaces. Allow about an hour for the board to soak in the oil then wipe away the excess.
Optionally, but recommended, apply and rub in a board butter to all surfaces.
How often should I oil my cutting board?
About as often as your change your air conditioner’s air filter, typically once a month.
Your oiling mileage may vary. When the board starts to look and feel dry that is a good time.
What woods are used in your end grain cutting boards?
At Wood Instaurator we use a variety of premium and exotic hardwoods including Black Walnut, Hard Maple, Padauk, Purpleheart and many more.
Each wood brings its own unique colors and grain patterns, making every board one-of-a-kind. Hardwoods are ideal for cutting boards due to their high Janka hardness ratings which make them more durable and long-lasting than softer woods.
Can I use my board for serving as well as cutting?
Absolutely! End grain cutting boards, with their unique patterns and vibrant wood tones, marry beauty with functionality making them perfect for serving charcuterie, fruits or cheeses.
What should I avoid doing with my end grain cutting board?
Avoid the following to extend the life of your cutting board:
- Do not wash it in the dishwasher
- Do not use it in the microwave
- Do not submerge it in water, even partially
- Do not use harsh chemicals on your board (Bleach, Ammonia, etc…)
- Mild detergent and water work best when washing your board
- Do not expose it to extreme temperatures
- Do not expose it to direct sunlight for extended time periods
- This can dry out your board and lead to cracking and warping
- Long term exposure will permanently discolor the wood