Q: Must I oil my cutting board?
A: Yes, it is a good idea to oil your cutting board from time to time for both cosmetic and durability purposes. Application of the oil nourishes the wood and thus keeps it from drying out over time or cracking. In effect, whereas cutting boards can last for many years, proper treatment using mineral oil will shockingly prolong their life.
Wooden cutting boards can be a handsome part of a kitchen. Yeah, you can chop on them, but you can also turn them into cheese or charcuterie boards or just carve a chicken right onto them and serve the chicken on the board. If you don’t have one that you love, I’d argue that owning a good-looking one spurs you to use it more—maybe working in more healthful chopped produce into your meals.
Dos:
Standard grade: Introduce food grade mineral oil made specifically for use on cutting boards.
Apply a thin amount to the whole board, using a clean cloth or paper towel.
Allow it to soak in overnight to really penetrate and condition the wood.
Wipe off any excess oil with a dry cloth or paper towel before the board is used again.
Don’t s:
Never soak your cutting board in water or run it through a dishwasher, for then warping and cracking could result.
Be sure to oil not just the top surface but also the sides and edges to ensure some consistency in the overall moisture content. Never clean your cutting board with harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners because they strip the protective oil from the wooden board and, conversely, may hurt the fibres.
Additional Tips on cutting boards maintenance
Reapply oil in the case when the board looks dry or after repeated uses, especially when exposed to water often.
The use of either Beeswax or a mix with mineral oil offers extra protection with the view of appreciating a very nice smooth finish on the cutting board.
Keeping the cutting board dry with good ventilation will ensure that there is no moisture accumulation on your board while it is not in use.
Aside from beautification visits, frequent oiling ensures your Cutting Board stays functional and safe for preparing food.