Caring for your Board

 

Cutting Board and Oil

At On the Bus Since™, we craft each wooden cutting board to be both a beautiful keepsake and a reliable kitchen workhorse. With a little TLC, your board will stay looking and performing its best for years to come. Here’s how to keep your board in top shape:

Everyday Cleaning

  • Hand-wash only. Rinse your board under warm water immediately after use.
  • Use mild soap. Gently scrub with a soft sponge and a drop of dish soap—avoid abrasive pads that can scratch the surface.
  • Rinse thoroughly. Make sure all soap is washed away.
  • Never put your wooden board in the dishwasher or soak it in water—this leads to warping and cracking.

Drying

  • Towel-dry right away. Pat the board with a clean dish towel on both sides.
  • Air-dry upright. Stand the board on its edge to allow all surfaces to dry evenly.

Proper drying prevents moisture from getting trapped, which can cause mold or splitting.

Regular Oiling & Conditioning

To keep the wood hydrated and resistant to stains and odors:

  • Choose a food-safe oil. We recommend 100% food-grade mineral oil or a specialized board butter (beeswax + oil).
  • Apply generously. Use a clean, lint-free cloth to rub oil into every surface—front, back, and edges.
  • Let it soak. Allow the oil to penetrate for at least 2 hours (or overnight).
  • Wipe off excess. Buff with a dry cloth until the surface feels smooth and not sticky.

Tip: Oil your board once a month—or whenever the wood starts to look dry or dull.

Deep Conditioning (Every 3–6 Months)

For boards that see heavy use or are starting to show fine cracks:

  • Use a board cream or butter. These products combine oil and natural wax to fill small grooves.
  • Follow the same application steps as regular oiling, but leave the cream on longer to seal and protect deeper.
  • Deep conditioning helps maintain a barrier against moisture and prevents splitting.

Stain & Odor Removal

  • Salt + lemon scrub: Sprinkle coarse salt, then scrub with half a lemon (cut-side down). Let sit 5 minutes, then rinse.
  • Baking soda paste: Mix baking soda + water into a paste, rub gently, then rinse.

These natural methods lift stains and neutralize lingering smells without harsh chemicals.

What to Avoid

  • Extreme heat or direct sun: Don’t leave your board near stovetops or windowsills. Direct sunlight can cause the wood to oxidize, dulling the color.
  • Harsh detergents & bleach: These can strip the wood’s natural oils and damage its finish.
  • Sharp cleavers edge-on: While our boards are sturdy, repeated heavy chopping in one spot can create deep grooves.

Storage Tips

  • Store upright: This encourages airflow and keeps both sides dry.
  • Keep away from humidity: Choose a cool, dry cabinet or shelf—not directly above the dishwasher.

In Summary

Treat your wooden cutting board like you would a beloved instrument on tour—clean gently, condition regularly, and store with care. Follow these simple steps, and your board will serve you well.