Cutting Board Care & Maintenance

Keep your cutting board beautiful and functional for years with proper care

Quick Care Overview

• Clean: Wash with warm soapy water after each use
• Dry: Always air dry on edge, never flat
• Oil: Apply beeswax oil conditioner when board looks dry
• Store: Keep in ventilated area, away from heat sources

Initial Setup for New Boards

When you receive your end grain cutting board:

1. Inspect for any shipping damage
2. Apply a generous coat of beeswax oil wood conditioner
3. Let oil absorb for 1 hour
4. Wipe off excess with lint-free cloth

End grain boards are more porous than other cutting boards and need this initial seasoning to create a protective barrier.

Daily Cleaning Instructions

After Each Use:

1. Remove food particles with nylon brush or dishcloth (use bench scraper for stubborn pieces)
2. Wash with warm water and mild dish soap
3. Scrub entire surface, edges, and bottom
4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water
5. Dry with dish towel
6. Air dry on edge for at least 1 hour

Never Do This:

• ❌ Use steel wool or steel brushes
• ❌ Put in dishwasher
• ❌ Soak or submerge in water
• ❌ Use bleach
• ❌ Dry flat on countertop

Regular Maintenance Schedule

When to Oil Your Board

Apply beeswax oil conditioner when:

• Board appears dull or dry
• After washing with soap and water
• At least once monthly with regular use

How to Apply Oil

1. Ensure board is clean and completely dry
2. Apply small amount of oil with lint-free cloth
3. Rub into entire surface, including edges
4. Let absorb for 1 hour
5. Wipe off excess

Understanding Wood and Moisture

Why Cutting Boards Crack: Uneven moisture distribution causes wood stress. When moisture isn't equalized throughout the board, expansion and contraction create cracks.

Prevent Cracking By:

• Equalizing moisture: Clean entire board, not just cutting area
• Maintaining oil barrier: Regular oiling slows moisture movement
• Proper storage: Allow air circulation on all sides
• Avoiding heat: Keep away from stoves, ovens, and direct sunlight

Deep Cleaning Solutions

Remove Stains

Lemon & Salt Method

• Sprinkle coarse salt on board
• Scrub with lemon half in circular motions
• Let sit 5 minutes
• Rinse and dry thoroughly

Baking Soda Paste

• Mix baking soda with water to form paste
• Apply to stains and scrub gently
• Let sit few minutes
• Rinse and dry thoroughly

Eliminate Odors

White Vinegar

• Wipe board with vinegar-soaked cloth
• Air dry completely

Baking Soda

• Sprinkle liberally over board
• Leave overnight
• Rinse and dry thoroughly

Storage Best Practices

Do:

• ✔ Store vertically or on edge
• ✔ Keep in ventilated area
• ✔ Allow air circulation on all sides
• ✔ Hang on wall for decorative storage

Don't:

• ❌ Store near heat sources (stoves, ovens)
• ❌ Keep in closed, humid cabinets
• ❌ Stack flat with other items on top
• ❌ Place in direct sunlight

Repairing Minor Damage

For Small Scratches:

1. Lightly sand affected area with fine-grit sandpaper
2. Clean dust thoroughly
3. Apply generous coat of beeswax oil conditioner

For Minor Cracks:

• Address immediately before they worsen
• Keep board well-oiled to prevent expansion
• Contact us for repair guidance on significant damage

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using as hot plate - Heat damages glue joints and over-dries wood
2. Partial cleaning - Creates uneven moisture distribution
3. Storing while damp - Promotes warping and bacterial growth
4. Neglecting oil treatment - Leaves wood vulnerable to moisture damage
5. Dishwasher cleaning - Causes severe warping and joint failure

Need More Help?

• Purchase beeswax oil wood conditioner
• Contact customer support
• Browse our cutting board collection

Proper care ensures your Amish Classic Creations cutting board remains a treasured kitchen tool for generations.