Total Boat Wood Honey is a natural, penetrating wood finish that provides durable protection while enhancing the natural beauty of wood. It is food-safe once cured, making it an excellent choice for finishing cutting boards. Here’s how to properly care for your cutting board finished with Total Boat Wood Honey:
Initial Care
Curing Time: Total Boat Wood Honey takes about 24-48 hours to dry to the touch but requires up to 7 days to fully cure. During this time, avoid heavy use or exposing the board to excessive moisture. Once fully cured, the cutting board will have a durable, water-resistant finish.
First Use: After the curing period, the cutting board is ready for regular use. The finish will protect the wood from moisture and staining, while highlighting the wood grain.
Daily Use & Cleaning
Hand Wash Only: Do not place the cutting board in the dishwasher or soak it in water, as this can damage both the wood and the finish. Hand wash with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly to remove any food particles.
Dry Immediately: After washing, dry the cutting board with a clean towel. It’s important to ensure that the board is completely dry to prevent warping or cracking. Allow it to air dry in a well-ventilated area if needed.
Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Harsh scrubbers, steel wool, or chemical-based cleaners should be avoided, as they can scratch or degrade the finish over time.
Maintenance and Re-oiling
Regular Oiling: Although Total Boat Wood Honey provides excellent protection, your cutting board will benefit from periodic re-oiling. This helps maintain the board’s finish and protects the wood from drying out, especially after heavy use.
Re-oiling Process:
Clean and dry the board thoroughly.
Apply a thin layer of Total Boat Wood Honey or a food-safe mineral oil using a clean, soft cloth. Rub the oil into the wood, ensuring even coverage.
Allow the oil to penetrate the wood for 15-30 minutes.
Wipe away any excess oil with a clean, dry cloth, and let the board fully dry before using it again.
Handling Stains and Odors
Removing Stains: For light stains, sprinkle coarse salt or baking soda on the stained area and scrub gently with a cut lemon or damp cloth. Rinse with warm water and dry the board immediately. For tougher stains, lightly sand the area with fine-grit sandpaper and reapply Total Boat Wood Honey to restore the finish.
Dealing with Odors: To remove strong odors, sprinkle baking soda on the surface of the cutting board and let it sit for 15-30 minutes before wiping it off and rinsing with warm water. Dry thoroughly afterward.
Avoiding Damage
Cutting Surface: While Total Boat Wood Honey is a durable finish, cutting directly on the surface can create knife marks over time. This is normal for any cutting board. To minimize wear, rotate the board regularly so you’re cutting on different sections of the board.
Heat Sensitivity: Avoid placing hot pots, pans, or other heated items directly on the cutting board, as heat can damage the wood and degrade the finish.
Acidic Substances: Prolonged exposure to acidic foods like lemon juice, vinegar, or tomato can dull the finish over time. Clean the board promptly after cutting acidic foods to protect the finish.
Long-Term Care
Inspection: Regularly inspect your cutting board for signs of wear, such as drying, rough patches, or a dull finish. When the board looks dry or feels rough, it’s time to reapply Total Boat Wood Honey to maintain the protective barrier.
Storage: Store the board in a dry location, away from extreme heat or humidity. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can fade the finish and cause the wood to warp or crack.
Conclusion
By following these care guidelines, your cutting board finished with Total Boat Wood Honey will remain both beautiful and functional for years to come. Regular cleaning, drying, and reapplication of oil will keep the wood well-protected, ensuring it can handle daily use while preserving its natural beauty.