Please note that while we take great care in crafting each product, wood is a natural, living material and can sometimes have inherent defects or develop issues over time. Factors such as grain variations, slight imperfections, or changes in shape due to humidity and temperature fluctuations are common and part of the natural aging process. These characteristics generally do not affect the products functionality but are a result of the organic nature of the material.
With proper care, your cutting board/charcuterie board/snacking trays can continue to
serve you for many years. Expect slight variations between boards due to the natural
distinct features of any peace of hardwood.
Cutting Boards:
End Grain Cutting Board V.S Long grain or Straight grain
An end grain cutting board is created with the grain of the wood being upward and being the cutting face of the board. End grain is usually dense and a more compressed version of the wood. The fibers are exposed but form a tight bond and deemed as a more self healing surface. Hardwood end grain boards are considered the pinnacle. They generally are quite robust without compromising the knifes edge.
Straight grain boards are built with the grain of wood running horizontal and in a length form to the cutting surface. Using hardwoods allows these boards to be quite commonly used as they work well but can show usage sooner. But are generally less money as end grain requires more steps to construct.
Caring for Your Cutting Board
You may not realize it, but your wooden cutting board needs proper care to keep it in good shape. How you clean and maintain it can determine its longevity. Along with regular cleaning after each use, your cutting board will benefit from occasional maintenance to keep the wood soft and properly conditioned.
First, remember: NEVER put your wood cutting board, charcuterie or trays in the dishwasher. The combination of heat and water can cause the wood to crack or warp, which will damage it permanently.
After using your board, remove any food debris and wash it by hand with warm water and mild dish soap. Be sure to clean and thoroughly dry all sides. The top, bottom, and edges. Many people only wash the top, but this can harm the board. When exposed to moisture, the wood fibers can swell, and if they don’t swell evenly, the board can warp. A rocking cutting board is often a sign that only one side was cleaned. To remove tough stains or lingering odors, sprinkle coarse salt on the surface, add lemon juice, and rub the mixture in. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off. Once clean, wipe the board dry and leave it to air-dry overnight, standing it upright to expose both large sides.
Once or twice a month, you should oil and wax your board. This step goes beyond regular cleaning, it helps rejuvenate the wood and ensures your board stays in great shape for years to come.
I strongly suggest using Cutting Board Wax to preserve your wooden board. The wax helps maintain its appearance, keeping it as beautiful as the day you first got it. Each board comes conditioned and with detailed care instructions along with a food grade wax.
Charcuterie boards and trays:
- Do not chop or cut on these boards
- Do not let deep pigment foods sit on the board as it could stain.
- Note not to use charcuterie boards for something they aren’t intended for.
