9 Tips For Caring For Wooden Butcher Blocks
You may add years to the life of your wooden cutting board by following certain care basics. Here are some tips to follow to insure you get the most life from your butcher block or cutting board.
1) Sponge on an even coat of mineral oil on the work surface of your cutting board or butcher block. Do this once every several weeks depending on the use.
2) You must not allow any type of moisture such as brine, water or blood to stand on the block for long periods of time. Also, be sure that wet meats do not stay on the board any longer than necessary. When moisture soaks into the wood, the wood expands, softens and effects the strength of the glued joints.
3) Use of a steel brush on the cutting surface is not recommended. Instead, use a good steel scraper or spatula as necessary.
4) Be sure to follow the instructions in step 1 prior to cutting fish or fowl. This insures that the moisture barrier is in place. Always clean the work surface thoroughly after cutting fish or fowl.
5) By distributing the cutting evenly over the surface of the block, you will insure that your block wears evenly. Never cut continuously in the same place on the block. Do not use a razor-edged cleaver to avoid splinters and soft spots. Instead, use a cleaver with a dull sharpened edge.
6) Never use any type of harsh detergents when cleaning your block and never wash your butcher's tools on the block.
7) You can remove 75% of the moisture from your block by scraping. Then dry immediately with an absorbent towel. You will then have an odorless and clean cutting surface for the next day and prevent quick deterioration of the work surface.
8) Maintain the same bevel on the edge of your block to prevent chipping or splitting on the outside of the board.
9) Insure even usage on both work surfaces by turning the block over periodically.
Never attempt to clean wooden butcher blocks or cutting boards in the dishwasher - they are not compatible.
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