Maidon Woodworking
DO NOTs
- Never put the cutting board in the dishwasher.
- DO NOT soak the cutting board in water or immerse completely.
- Never leave the cutting board sitting on a wet surface.
- DO NOT leave the board in a humid area.
- Never put a wet board flat to dry. If the board dries on one side, it will cause the wood to warp or cup. If your board should warp, check the internet for methods on straightening boards out.
DOs
- Wash the cutting board by hand with warm water, or with gentle soap and water, holding the board over the sink. Be sure to wash the board thoroughly to remove all lingering food particles.
- After every 4-5 uses of your cutting board, thoroughly apply warm food grade mineral oil all over the board. Ensure that the oil penetrates the wood and remove any surplus oil. This helps to moisten the wood and prevent cracking. (You may also use the paste wax that came with the board)
- End grain boards need to be oiled more frequently than edge grained as they absorb moisture more quickly.
- Vinegar is great for disinfecting cutting boards. It contains acetic acid with disinfects against Staphylococcus, E. coli, and Salmonella. Pour a small amount of vinegar onto each cutting board and wipe it down with a dry cloth or paper towel.
- It is possible there could be a lingering smell on the cutting board despite washing, and disinfecting. If this is the case, cut a lemon in half and rub the cut side of the lemon all over the cutting board. Rinse afterwards and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Keep the cutting board away from heat, and out of direct sunlight.
- The wood colors will change over time and darken. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight will hasten the change.
How to apply wax to your board:
- Let the board dry completely before applying wax.
- Apply a coat of wax with a soft cloth, rag, or paper towel.
- Apply the wax thinly. Let the coat of wax dry before wiping it off. (Suggestion: Apply wax before going to bed and let dry overnight.)
- With a soft cloth, buff the finish to a light shine.
Before first use:
Wash with warm soapy water and let dry. (Stand on side or edge, DO NOT LAY FLAT. If your board has feet, it may rest on the feet while drying. This allows air to flow around the board and allow it to dry evenly.) Once dry, coat with a thin layer of the included board butter.
Board Butter recipe:
Six ounces of food safe mineral oil infused with two ounces of beeswax and ¾ ounce of carnauba wax. Pour the mineral oil into a double boiler and then add the wax. Leave the mixture in the pot until the wax completely melts. Pour the mixture into a glass jar or tin until it sets up. It will be completely white once it sets. You may also add several drops of lemon or orange extract to the mixture after removing from the double boiler.
Disinfect your cutting board:
Cut a lemon in half and rub it all over the board and let it sit for a few minutes then wipe off with a damp rag. Vinegar may also be used to disinfect the board. Apply it to the board, let it sit for a few minutes then wipe with a damp rag to remove the vinegar.
What kind of oils to put on the cutting board?
- Mineral Oil. Mineral oil (sometimes called liquid paraffin) is a non-toxic, non-drying product derived from petroleum that is colorless, odorless, and flavorless. Teh oil should also be labeled as Food Grade or Food Safe.
- Beeswax. Beeswax is also a popular choice for cutting board maintenance.
- Coconut Oil (Refractionated)
- Carnauba.
- Baking Soda.
- Lemon Juice.
- Tung Oil.
- Linseed Oil.
Avoid the following oils: (They will become rancid over time)
- Vegetable Oil
- Peanut Oil
- Olive Oil
- Sesame Oil
- Corn Oil
- Walnut Oil
- Teak Oil
