Caring for Your Oak Board

With a little care, your BritishCraftStore oak chopping board or table runner will last for years and develop a beautiful patina over time. Here's how to keep it in top condition.

Daily Cleaning

• Hand-wash only — use warm water and a mild washing-up liquid. Wipe down with a soft cloth or sponge.
• Never soak your board or leave it sitting in water. Oak will absorb moisture and may warp or crack.
• Dry immediately — after washing, towel-dry thoroughly and stand the board upright to allow air to circulate on both sides.

What to Avoid

• Dishwashers — the heat, water pressure, and prolonged moisture will damage the wood and any engraving.
• Bleach or harsh chemicals — these strip the natural oils from the oak and can discolour the surface.
• Prolonged heat or direct sunlight — do not place your board near radiators, ovens, or in direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can cause the wood to dry out and split.
• Excessive moisture — do not store in damp environments or leave wet items sitting on the surface.

Oiling Your Board

Regular oiling keeps the oak nourished, protected, and looking its best.

• Use a food-safe mineral oil or a dedicated cutting board oil (available from most supermarkets or kitchen shops).
• Apply a generous amount with a clean, soft cloth, rubbing in the direction of the grain.
• Leave to soak in for at least 30 minutes (or ideally overnight for a deeper treatment).
• Wipe off any excess with a dry cloth.

How often? We recommend oiling your board once a month with regular use, or whenever the surface starts to look dry or lighter in colour. A freshly oiled board will have a rich, warm tone.

Removing Odours

If your board picks up strong food odours (garlic, onion, etc.), sprinkle the surface with coarse salt and rub with half a lemon. Leave for a few minutes, then rinse and dry as normal.

Dealing with Surface Marks

Over time, knife marks are normal and add character to your board. If you'd like to refresh the surface:

1. Lightly sand with fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit), working in the direction of the grain.
2. Wipe away dust with a damp cloth and allow to dry.
3. Re-oil generously as described above.

Caring for Engraved Boards

Engraved boards require the same care as above, with a couple of extra tips:

• When oiling, pay attention to the engraved areas — work the oil into the grooves to keep them protected and looking crisp.
• Avoid using the engraved side as your primary cutting surface. The engraved face is designed for presentation and serving; use the reverse side for chopping.
• Clean the engraved grooves gently with a soft brush if food particles get trapped.

Storage

Store your board upright or flat in a cool, dry place. If storing flat, avoid stacking heavy items on top. Allow air to circulate around the board — don't seal it in a plastic bag or airtight container.

Your oak board is a natural product, made to be used and enjoyed. With these simple steps, it will serve you well for years to come.