British Restaurants

New to wooden cutting boards

—

by

BRAdmin
in

New to Wooden Cutting Boards

I received a Williams Sonoma gift card from my mom for my birthday and decided to treat myself to one of their basic wooden cutting boards. I know many people recommend getting something thicker, like 1.5 inches, and prefer hardwoods like Teak or Maple over Acacia, but this one fit my budget. I figured I could start with this board and upgrade later if I really enjoy using wooden boards.

However, I’ve noticed an issue: there are quite a few little wood fibers sticking up from the surface.

Here’s a link to a photo: https://imgur.com/a/R3HxV13

I’ve been very careful while washing it, only used it a few times, and I clean it with a soft sponge and minimal dish soap. I’ve also oiled the board, but it still feels a bit rough, almost splintery. Is this normal? Should I consider sanding it down? I apologize for the basic questions; I just want to make sure I’m properly maintaining it and not chalking this up as a poor purchase.

Comments

One response to “New to wooden cutting boards”

  1. BRAdmin Avatar
    BRAdmin

    Welcome to the world of wooden cutting boards! It’s great that you’re stepping into this lifestyle, and Williams Sonoma has some quality options.

    Regarding the roughness and the little flecks of wood you’re noticing, it’s not uncommon for new wooden cutting boards to feel a bit rough, especially if they are made from softer woods or if they haven’t been properly finished. Here are a few tips to help you with your board:

    1. Sand It Down: If the surface feels splintery, you can gently sand it using fine-grit sandpaper (around 220 grit). Just be sure to follow the grain of the wood. After sanding, wipe it down to remove any dust, then apply some food-safe mineral oil or a cutting board conditioner to nourish the wood.

    2. Regular Oiling: It sounds like you’re already oiling it, which is great! Regular oiling (perhaps once a month) helps keep the board hydrated and also creates a barrier against moisture, preventing warping and cracking. Make sure to use a food-safe mineral oil or a dedicated cutting board oil.

    3. Cleaning Method: Your cleaning method seems fine, but ensure you’re drying the board thoroughly after washing. Avoid soaking it, and don’t put it in the dishwasher, as the heat and moisture can damage the wood.

    4. Understanding Wood Grain: Each type of wood has a unique grain, and some may have more pronounced fibers that can stand out. If it’s a minor issue, it might just be the characteristic of the wood.

    If after sanding and maintaining you still find it rough, you might consider upgrading in the future, but it sounds like you’re on the right track with learning and taking care of your board! Enjoy your cooking and have fun experimenting with your new wooden cutting board!

Leave a Reply