The Cambria Butcher Block

Butcher Block Uses

You’ll find a variety of uses for your butcher block:

• For cutting fruits and vegetables, as well as butchering meat
• As a serving platter for meats and cheeses
• To add a touch of style to your kitchen area

When using your butcher block:

• Avoid exposing it to excessive moisture for long periods of time, as this can cause it to warp.
• Avoid using it as a hot plate, as this can cause your board to dry out and eventually crack.

Butcher Block Cleaning

You’ll need to wash your butcher block each time you use it. Start by removing any large pieces of food with a dishcloth or nylon bristled brush. For food particles that are difficult to remove, try using a flat, steel bench scraper or spatula. After removing any large pieces of food, quickly and gently wet the butcher block with warm or hot soapy water, then scrub it clean with a dish brush, dishcloth or sponge. Be sure to scrub the entire surface of the butcher block, including the sides and bottom. Once you’ve finished scrubbing, rinse your butcher block clean and dry it with a dish towel before placing it on its edge to dry for at least an hour.

When cleaning your butcher block, DO NOT:

• Use a steel brush or steel wool, as these items can scratch the surface of your butcher block, creating space for unwanted germs to hide.
• Put your butcher block in the dishwasher, as this can warp and splinter the wood.
• Immerse your butcher block in water, as the wood can absorb water and warp.
• Wash your butcher block with bleach, as this can stain and dry out the wood.
• Lay your butcher block flat to dry on one side, as this can cause the wood to warp.

Butcher Block Maintenance

In order to extend the life of your butcher block, apply beeswax oil wood conditioner on a regular basis. The food-safe conditioner prevents liquids from penetrating into wood surfaces, where bacteria and other germs can grow. Beeswax oil also moisturizes wood, keeping it from becoming overly dry and brittle. Not to mention, it adds a beautiful, glossy finish to wood butcher blocks.

Apply the beeswax oil to your butcher block by adding a few drops of it to a lint-free cleaning cloth, then rubbing it into the entire surface of the butcher block. Before returning the butcher block to storage, let it dry on your counter for roughly an hour, allowing the beeswax oil to absorb completely into the wood.

Note: Real wood moves as it adapts to its environment, which can lead to slight warping or cracking of your butcher block. This is expected, and is not considered a defect.

Butcher Block Storage

You’ll want to store your butcher block in a well ventilated area, preferably in a vertical position. Storing your butcher block vertically prevents moisture from accumulating underneath it and potentially causing it to warp. It also prevents dirt and debris from building up on the cutting surface while in storage.