A well-made wooden cutting board can last decades — but only if it’s properly cared for. The most important part of maintenance is oiling your cutting board regularly. This simple step prevents the wood from drying out, cracking, or absorbing unwanted odors.
Think of it like moisturizing your skin — wood is porous and needs conditioning. With the right oil and routine, your board will stay smooth, sanitary, and beautiful for years.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
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Why oiling matters
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The best oils to use
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How often to oil
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A simple step-by-step method
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Extra protection with board cream
1. Why Oiling Matters
Wood, unlike plastic, is a natural material. Its fibers expand, contract, and absorb moisture. Without proper care, your cutting board can:
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Dry out and crack over time
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Warp or split from water absorption
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Hold onto food stains and odors
Regular oiling solves these problems. It creates a protective barrier that:
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Seals the wood fibers
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Repels water and food juices
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Enhances the wood’s natural grain and color
👉 If you want your board to look beautiful and perform like new for decades, oiling is non-negotiable.
2. Best Oils for Cutting Boards
Always use food-safe oils. Here are the top choices:
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Mineral Oil: Odorless, tasteless, affordable, and 100% food-safe. This is the most common cutting board conditioner.
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Board Cream / Board Butter: A blend of mineral oil + beeswax. The oil penetrates while the wax adds a protective topcoat.
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Fractionated Coconut Oil (MCT Oil): Unlike regular coconut oil, this version won’t go rancid.
🚫 Avoid: Vegetable oil, olive oil, sunflower oil, or any cooking oil. These can turn rancid, leaving your board sticky and foul-smelling.
💡 At Bevel & Bond, we recommend using mineral oil for regular conditioning and following up with board balm (oil + beeswax) for extra protection.
3. How Often Should You Oil?
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Light Use: Once per month is usually enough.
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Heavy Use or Dry Climate: Every 2–3 weeks.
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Quick Test: Sprinkle a few drops of water on the board. If it soaks in instead of beading on top, it’s time to oil.
👉 Remember: over-oiling isn’t a problem. Under-oiling is.
4. Step-by-Step: How to Oil Your Cutting Board
Step 1 – Clean the Board
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Wash the board with mild soap and warm water.
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Dry thoroughly with a towel.
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Never soak the board or put it in the dishwasher.
Step 2 – Apply Oil
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Pour a small amount of oil onto the surface.
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Use a clean cloth or paper towel to spread the oil evenly across the top, bottom, and all edges.
Step 3 – Let It Soak
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Let the board sit overnight (or at least 6 hours).
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This allows the oil to deeply penetrate the wood fibers.
Step 4 – Wipe Excess & Buff
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In the morning, wipe away any unabsorbed oil with a clean cloth.
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Buff the surface for a smooth, polished finish.
👉 That’s it — your board is reconditioned and ready to use.
5. Deep Conditioning with Board Cream
For maximum protection, finish with board cream (oil + beeswax). The oil penetrates while the wax forms a barrier on the surface, repelling water and food juices.
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Apply a thin layer after oiling.
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Buff until smooth.
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Use monthly for best results.
💡 Think of oil as “hydration” and cream as “protection.” Together, they give your board the longest life.
Suggested FAQ (Optional for SEO)
Q: Can I use olive oil to oil a cutting board?
A: No. Olive oil and other cooking oils can go rancid. Always use food-safe mineral oil or board cream.
Q: How do I know if my board needs oiling?
A: If the surface looks dry or water doesn’t bead up on it, it’s time to re-oil.
Q: Do all wooden boards need oiling?
A: Yes — whether walnut, maple, or cherry, all hardwood boards require regular oiling.
Final Thought
Oiling your cutting board is simple, quick, and the key to extending its lifespan by years. With the right oil and routine, your board will remain smooth, sanitary, and beautiful for decades.
At Bevel & Bond, we craft premium walnut and maple cutting boards designed to last a lifetime — and we provide care kits to keep them at their best.
👉 Shop Bevel & Bond’s premium cutting boards and care kit here
Get Your Bevel & Bond Cutting Board Today!
Ready to invest in a cutting board that will stand the test of time? Visit our Shop today and choose from our premium selection of handcrafted cutting boards, made with love and care.
