Do you oil or condition a cutting board first?

Whether you should oil or condition a new wood cutting board first is a common question for those looking to properly care for and maintain their cutting boards. The key factors to consider are the type of wood, the current condition of the board, and the desired outcome. Ultimately, oiling and conditioning serve different purposes and when done properly, will work together to keep cutting boards protected.

Should You Oil or Condition First?

In most cases, it is recommended to apply an oil to a new unfinished wood cutting board before conditioning it. Here’s why:

• Oil penetrates deep into the wood grains to waterproof and protect the board from damage.
• Conditioners sit more superficially on the surface to make it look and feel smooth.
• Oiling first will allow the oil to soak in maximally without the conditioner blocking penetration.
• The conditioner can then be applied to the oiled surface for an optimal look and feel.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule:

• If the cutting board is very dried out and rough, conditioning first can help rehydrate and smooth the wood before oiling.
• If only a conditioning or surface treatment is desired, oiling first is not necessary.
• For periodic reapplication of oil and/or conditioner to a maintained board, order does not matter.

The Purpose of Oiling Cutting Boards

Oiling a wood cutting board serves some key functions:

• Waterproofing – Oil creates a protective barrier to minimize water absorption into the wood.
• Stain resistance – It prevents stains from becoming ingrained into the wood.
• Wood preservation – Oil nourishes and maintains the natural wood grains.
• Sealing – It fills in cracks and pores that could harbor bacteria.

Regular oiling is imperative to preserve and extend the life of a wood cutting board. It also maintains the board’s safety for food preparation. Common food-grade oils used are mineral oil, coconut oil, beeswax paste, and walnut oil.

How to Oil a Wood Cutting Board

Oiling a wood cutting board properly is easy to do:

1. Clean and dry the board thoroughly first.
2. Apply a generous layer of food-grade oil over the entire surface.
3. Let it soak in for up to 30 minutes. Rub in any excess.
4. Wipe away any remaining oil with a clean cloth or paper towels.
5. Allow to dry completely before using, about 24 hours.
6. Repeat monthly or as needed for maintenance.

The Purpose of Conditioning Cutting Boards

Conditioning or treating a wood cutting board serves other beneficial functions:

• Cosmetic enhancement – Conditioners can impart a silky smoothness and luster.
• Surface protection – They create a protective coat against minor scratches and scrapes.
• Stain resistance – Conditioners help prevent stains from absorbing into the wood grain.
• Wood hydration – They can rehydrate and restore very dried out boards.

Common conditioning products used are beeswax, mineral oil/beeswax blend, coconut oil, butcher block conditioner, and cutting board wax.

How to Condition a Wood Cutting Board

Proper steps for conditioning or treating a cutting board:

1. Clean and dry the board first.
2. Apply the conditioner evenly across the wood grain.
3. Let it soak in for 15-20 minutes. Buff to a shine.
4. Wipe away any excess with a clean cloth.
5. Allow to dry and cure overnight before using.
6. Repeat as needed for upkeep, or monthly.

Oiling and Conditioning New vs. Used Cutting Boards

The approach to oiling and conditioning differs slightly depending on whether a cutting board is brand new unfinished wood or has been maintained and used.

New Cutting Boards

• Should always be oiled first prior to use.
• Oil soaks deeply into new wood grains.
• Follow with a conditioner for protection and appearance.
• Repeat oiling and conditioning monthly.

Used/Maintained Cutting Boards

• No need to oil first if regularly maintained.
• Reapplication order of oil and conditioner does not matter.
• Alternate oil and conditioner monthly.
• Increase frequency if board seems dry or rough.

Oils and Conditioners for Cutting Boards

Oil	Conditioner
Food-grade mineral oil	Beeswax paste
Walnut oil	Coconut oil
Olive oil	Cutting board wax
Coconut oil	Mineral oil/beeswax blend
Almond oil	Butcher block conditioner

When choosing an oil or conditioner, consider:

• Food-safe – Ensure anything applied can safely come in contact with food.
• Absorption – How well does it penetrate into and seal the wood?
• Coating – Does it leave a protective barrier on the wood surface?
• Scent – Select a pleasant, neutral scent that won’t impart flavors.
• Ease of application – Liquid oils tend to be easier to apply than thicker waxes and balms.

Application Tips and Tricks

To get the most out of oiling and conditioning your cutting boards, follow these useful tips:

• Always clean and dry boards thoroughly before application.
• With oil, apply liberally and let soak in well. Wipe away any excess left behind.
• Use a soft cloth or brush to work conditioner into the wood grain.
• Buff conditioners to a hard shine using a cloth or brush.
• Store boards on edge when drying to prevent pooling of excess oil or wax.
• Allow at least 24 hours of cure time before using the board.
• Consider alternating oil and conditioner monthly for best protection.

Cutting Board Oiling Tips

• Soak oiled boards in warm water periodically to deep clean and pull out debris.
• To freshen worn boards, let them soak in oil for a few hours before wiping.
• Try using a beeswax paste after oiling for an extra protective layer.

Cutting Board Conditioning Tips

• Use butter, beeswax or gentle oil to revive a dried out board before conditioning.
• If boards feel sticky after conditioning, they likely need more buffing and cure time.
• Rehydrate overly dried boards by letting them soak in water for 30 minutes before conditioning.

FAQs

Does the order of oiling and conditioning matter?

Yes, it’s best to oil new wood first to maximize penetration and waterproofing before applying any surface conditioners. On existing boards, order is less important. Alternate oil and conditioner for well-rounded protection.

How often should you oil and condition cutting boards?

Ideally, oil every 1-2 months and condition every 2-3 months. New boards may need more frequent oiling at first. Increase conditioning during winter months when boards tend to dry out more.

What’s the best oil or conditioner to use?

Food-grade mineral oil is a top choice for oiling boards. Beeswax or butcher block conditioner work well too. Most plant-based oils can condition boards effectively. Choosing food-safe products is critical.

Can you over-oil or over-condition a cutting board?

Yes, it is possible. Too much oil can lead to pooling, stickiness and rancidity over time. Too much conditioner may result in a thick waxy buildup. Stick to thin, even applications wiped down to a dry finish.

How do you fix a dried out, rough cutting board?

Revive overly dried boards by gently sanding them, letting them soak in water for 30 minutes, then oiling. Follow up with a thick layer of conditioner to rehydrate the wood and make it smooth.

Conclusion

Maintaining wood cutting boards through regular oiling and conditioning is essential to their longevity and safety. While oiling first is ideal for unfinished boards, their application can alternate on boards already in use. Aim for monthly oiling and conditioning, adjust for seasonal dryness, and they will last for many years of use. Always use food-safe products and apply thinly for optimal protection and performance.