How to Clean a Wooden Cutting Board (And Keep It Looking New)

A wooden cutting board is a kitchen investment that can last decades — if you care for it properly. The key is knowing what to do (and what never to do) to keep the wood clean, conditioned, and crack-free.

What You'll Need

• CLARK'S Cutting Board Organic Soap — formulated specifically for wood, bamboo, and butcher block
• Mevell Food Grade Mineral Oil — USP certified, food-safe, essential for conditioning
• A stiff scrub brush
• Coarse salt and lemon (for deep cleaning)
• Paper towels or a clean cloth

Daily Cleaning: After Every Use

Step 1: Rinse Under Warm Running Water

Rinse both sides of the board under warm water immediately after use. Never submerge in water or leave soaking — this causes warping and cracking.

Step 2: Scrub with Cutting Board Soap

Apply CLARK'S Cutting Board Soap and scrub with a stiff brush. The natural citrus extracts cut through grease and food residue while being completely safe for wood. Scrub both sides to prevent uneven moisture absorption.

Step 3: Rinse and Dry Upright

Rinse thoroughly, then stand the board upright or prop it at an angle to air dry on both sides. Never lay flat — moisture trapped underneath causes warping.

Weekly Maintenance: Deep Clean and Condition

Step 1: Salt and Lemon Scrub

Once a week, sprinkle coarse salt over the board and scrub with a lemon half. This removes embedded odors, light stains, and bacteria naturally. Rinse and dry completely.

Step 2: Apply Mineral Oil

Once the board is completely dry, apply a generous coat of food-grade mineral oil to all surfaces — top, bottom, and all four sides. Use a cloth or paper towel to rub it in with the grain.

Step 3: Let It Soak In

Let the oil soak in for at least 30 minutes, or leave overnight for best results. Wipe off any excess with a clean cloth.

The Golden Rules for Wooden Cutting Boards

• Never put in the dishwasher
• Never soak in water
• Never leave wet on a flat surface
• Always oil regularly — dry wood cracks and splits
• Always clean both sides to prevent warping

How to Restore a Dry or Cracked Wooden Board

If your board has dried out or developed small cracks, apply 3–5 coats of mineral oil over several days, letting each coat soak in fully before applying the next. This rehydrates the wood and can close minor cracks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I oil a wooden cutting board?

Once a week for boards in regular use. New boards should be oiled 3–5 times before first use. You'll know it needs oiling when the wood looks dry or lighter in color.

Can I use olive oil or vegetable oil instead of mineral oil?

No — food oils like olive oil and vegetable oil go rancid inside the wood and create unpleasant odors. Always use food-grade mineral oil, which is odorless, tasteless, and doesn't spoil.

My wooden board has deep knife grooves. Should I replace it?

Deep grooves harbor bacteria that are hard to clean. You can sand the board smooth with fine-grit sandpaper, then re-oil it. If the grooves are very deep, replacement is safer.