In this guide, you’ll learn how to clean, oil, and store your board the right way. These are simple tips anyone can follow — no fancy stuff.
Why Choose a Maple and Cherry Cutting Board?
Maple is a light, strong hardwood. It’s smooth and hard enough to handle tough chopping without dulling your knife. Cherry is slightly softer, but it adds a rich, warm tone to your board.
Together, these two woods make a perfect pair. A maple and cherry cutting board gives you the strength of maple and the beauty of cherry. Plus, the color contrast looks great on any kitchen counter.
Clean It After Every Use
After each use, your board needs a quick clean. Don’t let food sit on it too long.
Here’s what to do:
- Scrape off any bits of food.
- Wash with warm water and mild dish soap.
- Use a sponge or soft cloth (never a steel scrubber).
- Rinse well and dry it with a clean towel.
Never soak your maple and cherry cutting board. Wood soaks up water and may crack or warp over time.
Disinfect It Naturally
Want to keep your board fresh and safe? Use natural cleaners.
Here’s a simple method:
- Sprinkle coarse salt on the board.
- Cut a lemon in half and scrub the surface.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes, then rinse and dry.
This method removes stains, smells, and bacteria. It’s safe and chemical-free.
Oil It Regularly
Wood needs moisture to stay in good shape. That’s where oiling comes in.
Use food-safe mineral oil or cutting board oil. Here’s how:
- Pour a little oil onto the board.
- Rub it in with a soft cloth or paper towel.
- Cover all sides and edges.
- Let it soak in for a few hours or overnight.
- Wipe off any extra oil.
Oil your maple and cherry cutting board about once a month — more often if it looks dry or rough.
Keep It Away from Heat and Moisture
Never leave your board near a stove, heater, or window. Too much heat or sunlight can dry it out.
Also, avoid placing it near the sink or in damp cabinets. Moisture can cause mold or make the wood warp.
Best practice? Store it upright in a dry spot. Let air flow around it. Your board will stay flat and clean.
Use Both Sides of the Board
Don’t forget — your board has two sides! Use both to prevent one side from wearing out faster than the other.
You can use one side for cutting meat, the other for fruits and veggies. This helps keep your food safe and your board balanced.
Avoid the Dishwasher
Dishwashers are great for plates, not for wooden boards. The high heat, steam, and water can ruin your board fast.
Always wash your maple and cherry cutting board by hand. It only takes a minute and will save your board from cracking or splitting.
Fix Scratches and Stains
Over time, knife marks and stains will show up. That’s normal. But you can fix them.
Here’s how:
- Lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper (around 220 grit).
- Wipe away the dust.
- Reapply oil and let it soak in.
Your board will feel smooth again and look like new.
Don't Use It for Everything
This board is tough, but it’s not meant for every job.
Avoid using it to:
- Chop bones or frozen food (can cause deep cuts)
- Cut hot meat (heat may damage the finish)
- Serve very juicy foods (juice can soak in)
Stick to veggies, bread, cheese, and boneless meats for daily use.
Refinish It Every Few Months
Besides oiling, you can also use a board cream or wax. These products give your board extra protection and shine.
Apply it like oil — rub it in, let it sit, and wipe off the extra. Your maple and cherry cutting board will stay glossy and water-resistant.
When It’s Time to Say Goodbye
Even with the best care, no board lasts forever.
If your board has deep cracks, black mold, or feels wobbly, it may be time to replace it. But with regular care, a quality board can last 10 years or more.
Caring for a New Boar
If your board is brand new, you should oil it right away. Many new boards are dry and need that first coat to seal the wood.
Do this before using it the first time. It will protect the board and keep food smells from soaking in.
Benefits of a Well-Cared-For Board
When you take care of your maple and cherry cutting board, you’ll enjoy:
- A cleaner cooking surface
- Better food taste (no smell left behind)
- Longer board life
- A beautiful, natural kitchen look
It’s a small effort with big results.
FAQs
Q: How often should I oil my maple and cherry cutting board?
A: Once a month is good. If your kitchen is very dry or you use the board daily, you might want to oil it every 2–3 weeks.
Q: What kind of oil should I use?
A: Use food-grade mineral oil, cutting board oil, or beeswax-based creams. Don’t use cooking oils like olive or vegetable oil — they can go bad and smell.
Q: Can I cut raw meat on this board?
A: Yes, but be careful. Clean it well right after, and disinfect using lemon and salt. Also, avoid letting meat juices sit on the board.
Q: Is it okay to leave the board on the counter all the time?
A: Yes, as long as it’s dry and not near heat or water. Many people love the way a maple and cherry cutting board looks on the counter.
Q: My board smells weird. What can I do?
A: Use the lemon and salt scrub method. If that doesn’t work, mix baking soda with water and scrub the surface gently. Rinse and dry well.
Final Words
Your maple and cherry cutting board deserves care. It’s a solid, beautiful part of your kitchen. And with just a little time, you can keep it looking and working like new.
Clean it. Oil it. Respect it. It will reward you with years of faithful service — and maybe even become your favorite kitchen tool.