The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Wooden Serving Boards, Bowls & Items
Wooden serving boards, bowls and items are not just functional kitchen items; they’re timeless pieces that add warmth and charm to your home. Whether you use them for serving charcuterie, preparing food, or displaying fruit, proper care ensures they last for years. In this guide, we’ll cover essential wood care habits, common mistakes to avoid, and how our Wood Conditioning Butter can help keep your woodenware in top condition.
Why Proper Wood Care Matters
Unlike plastic or ceramic, wood is a natural material that reacts to moisture, temperature, and daily use. Without the right maintenance, wooden boards and bowls can crack, warp, or develop bacteria. By following these simple care steps, you’ll keep your pieces looking beautiful and food-safe for years.
Best Practices for Maintaining Wooden Boards & Bowls
1. Hand Wash Only
Always wash wooden items by hand using warm water and mild dish soap. Avoid soaking them in water, as prolonged exposure can cause swelling and splitting.
2. Dry Immediately & Thoroughly
After washing, use a clean towel to dry your wooden pieces immediately. Let them air-dry upright to ensure even drying and prevent warping.
3. Oil Regularly for Protection
To keep the wood hydrated and prevent it from drying out, apply a food-safe oil like our Wood Conditioning Butter at least once a month. This helps protect against moisture, stains, and cracking.
4. Use Lemon & Salt for Deep Cleaning
For stubborn stains or odors, sprinkle coarse salt on the surface and scrub with half a lemon. This natural method cleans without damaging the wood.
5. Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Keep wooden items away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Excessive heat can cause them to dry out and crack.
What to Avoid When Caring for Woodenware
❌ Never Put Wooden Items in the Dishwasher
The combination of hot water and detergent strips away natural oils, causing wood to dry out and deteriorate.
❌ Avoid Harsh Chemicals & Bleach
Strong cleaners can damage the wood’s surface and leave harmful residues. Stick to mild soap or natural cleaning methods.
❌ Don’t Use Vegetable Oils for Conditioning
Oils like olive or vegetable oil can turn rancid over time, leading to unpleasant smells. Instead, use a specialised Wood Conditioning Butter designed for food-contact surfaces.
❌ Avoid Prolonged Water Exposure
Never leave wooden bowls or boards soaking in water, as this weakens the wood fibres and can cause splitting.
Keep Your Wooden Items Looking Their Best
Investing in high-quality wooden serving boards and bowls means taking the time to care for them properly. With regular cleaning, oiling, and mindful use, your woodenware will remain a beautiful and durable part of your kitchen.
For the best results, try our Wood Conditioning Butter – specially formulated to protect and enhance the natural beauty of your wooden pieces.
Ready to Give Your Woodenware the Best Care?
Browse our shop to get your hands on the best wood care products today!