1. Clean It the Right Way (Never the Dishwasher)
The number one rule: never put your wooden cutting board in the dishwasher. The heat and prolonged moisture will cause the wood to warp, crack, and split — even on the most durable hardwoods like walnut, maple, and purple heart.
Instead, wash your board by hand with warm water and mild dish soap. Rinse quickly and dry immediately with a towel — don't let it soak or sit in a puddle of water.
Pro tip: Stand your board upright or prop it at an angle while it air-dries to allow airflow on both sides and prevent warping.
2. Oil It Regularly to Prevent Drying and Cracking
Wood is a natural material that needs moisture to stay supple. Without regular oiling, even the finest hardwood board will dry out and lose its luster.
How often should you oil your board?
- New boards: oil before first use, then once a week for the first month
- Established boards: once a month, or whenever the wood looks dry or dull
Use a food-safe oil — mineral oil is the gold standard. Avoid olive oil, vegetable oil, or coconut oil, as these can go rancid inside the wood over time.
Our Cutting Board Care Kit includes everything you need to keep your board in top condition — food-safe oil, conditioning wax, and easy-to-follow instructions. It also makes a thoughtful gift alongside any board purchase.
3. Condition with Wax for Extra Protection
After oiling, take it a step further with a board cream or conditioning wax. This seals the surface, adds a subtle sheen, and creates a barrier against moisture and staining.
Apply a thin layer, let it sit for 20–30 minutes, then buff it off with a clean cloth. You'll notice the difference immediately — the wood will look richer and feel smoother.
4. Remove Odors and Stains Naturally
Garlic, onion, and fish can leave lingering odors on your board. Here's a simple fix:
- Odors: Rub the surface with half a lemon and a sprinkle of coarse salt. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse and dry.
- Stains: Make a paste of baking soda and water, scrub gently, then rinse clean.
For deep stains on lighter woods like maple, a light sanding with fine-grit sandpaper followed by re-oiling can restore the surface beautifully.
5. Store It Properly
Store your board flat or upright in a dry area away from direct sunlight and heat sources (like the stovetop or a sunny windowsill). Avoid storing it in a damp cabinet or leaning against a wet surface.
If you have multiple boards, give them space — stacking wet boards together traps moisture and encourages mold.
Which Boards Benefit Most from This Care Routine?
All of our handcrafted boards are made from premium natural hardwoods and will reward consistent care. A few customer favorites:
- Multi-Colored Edge Grain Cutting Board — Walnut, Maple, Purple Heart & Wenge — a stunning showpiece that deserves the full care treatment.
- Claro Walnut Cutting Board 19x12 — Our large luxury board, perfect for everyday use and entertaining.
- Walnut & Brazilian Oak Cutting Board 7x17 — A beautiful two-tone board that's as functional as it is gorgeous.
Browse our full Cutting Boards collection to find the perfect board for your kitchen.
The Bottom Line
A little care goes a long way. Clean it by hand, oil it monthly, condition it with wax, and store it properly — and your GJ Designs board will be a kitchen staple for generations.
Ready to give your board the care it deserves? Grab our Cutting Board Care Kit and keep your investment looking its best.
Handcrafted in Diamondhead, MS. Every board is uniquely designed.