Butcher Block Oil

Regular maintenance of your butcher block is important to ensure its long life and to protect your investment. Just like a quality piece of furniture, a quality butcher block requires some care and attention to maintain its beauty, and functionality. The process is relatively simple and inexpensive.

Before you use your new butcher block, it must be seasoned or oiled. Seasoning protects the board from cracking at the seams. Seasoning also hinders bacterial growth and odor absorption. UPS-grade mineral oil, is one of the most popular, widely available and cost effective oils on the market for seasoning butcher blocks. Avoid plant based oils as they will become rancid with time.

Before applying the butcher block oil, warm it slightly. Rub into the grain with a soft clean cloth. Allow time for the oil to soak in between coats. For the initial seasoning, four or five coats is ideal. Let the oil soak in for four to six hours. After that time, wipe off any remaining butcher block oil. Wooden boards should be oiled once a month for optimal performance.

Along with regular oiling, butcher blocks should be kept out of standing water and periodically sanitized with a solution of one teaspoon bleach to one quart water or a one to five part solution of vinegar and water. Regular seasoning with butcher block oil will protect the piece from any damage from the bleach or vinegar and add a protective barrier against food borne bacteria.

Butcher block oil is an important part of maintaining your investment. With regular care and maintenance, your butcher block can last a life time.

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