How to Treat, Protect, and Maintain Your Wood Cutting Board Like a Pro

Posted by Helena Kostina on January 28, 2026

Wood cutting boards are robust and reliable - yet they demand a little bit of our attention once in a while. Cracks, stains, bad smells: all very unpleasant problems, but avoidable with some simple precautions.

Treating and protecting your cutting board will keep it hygienic, nice-looking and functional in the long run. This guide will explain how you can give your cutting board the top treatment it deserves.

Why treating and protecting a wood cutting board matters

Natural wood reacts to the environment: moisture, heat, or frequent washing. Without any treatment, a cutting board is more prone to absorbing water, warping or developing cracks. Proper treatment and protection help to:

Reduce moisture absorption
Prevent splitting and rough surfaces
Improve hygiene and ease of cleaning
Extend the lifespan of the board

How to treat a wood cutting board properly

Ultimately, the goal is to nourish the wood and to help it maintain its structure.

1. Clean the board before treatment

It’s important to start with a clean surface.

Wash with water and soap
Avoid soaking the board
Dry it thoroughly with a cloth, then allow it to air dry

This last step is important, as moisture trapped in the wood pores could interfere with the second part of the treatment.

2. Oil the board to nourish and seal the wood

Oil is your main tool when it comes to maintenance.

Use a food safe oil designed for cutting boards
Apply evenly across the surface and edges
Allow the oil to soak in fully
Wipe away any excess

How to protect a wooden cutting board from damage

Protection is about keeping a few precautions in mind.

1. Everyday habits that protect your cutting board

Simple routines that keep your board healthy:

Never put a wood cutting board in the dishwasher
Avoid leaving it in standing water
Dry the board upright so air can circulate
Try to use both sides evenly to prevent warping

2. Using oil and wax as protective barriers

Aside from oil, some people use an oil and beeswax blend for added protection, which is a great idea.

Oil penetrates and nourishes the wood
Wax adds an extra layer of water resistance

This can be especially useful in humid kitchens or for boards that are used every day.

How often should you treat and protect your cutting board

There is no strict rule, but regularity is key.

New boards may need oiling once a week for the first month
Most boards benefit from oiling every three to four weeks
If the surface looks dry or absorbs water quickly, it’s time to reapply oil

How to care for an olive wood cutting board

Valued for their natural beauty and unique grain, olive wood boards need slightly different care.

What makes olive wood different

Olive wood contains natural oils and is denser than most other kinds of wood which, while making it more resistant to moisture, doesn’t eliminate the need for regular maintenance, to prevent drying.

How to look after an olive wood chopping board

If your cutting board is made from olive wood, keep these points in mind:

Clean it, using simply water and soap
Dry immediately after washing
Compared with other types of wood, oil more lightly but more regularly
Avoid extreme temperature changes

Common mistakes that damage wood cutting boards

Knowing a few “don’ts” will avoid most problems:

Soaking the board in water
Using harsh detergents or bleach
Applying cooking oils that go rancid
Leaving the board wet or lying flat on a surface after washing

Final thoughts

Treating and protecting your wood cutting board will keep it functional and looking nice. And what’s more, it isn’t difficult to do: just remember to oil it regularly and to follow some simple precautions, and your cutting board will last for many years.

Portuguese Treasures offers a wide range of olive wood boards, combining natural beauty with durability and everyday functionality, perfect for food preparation and serving while adding a warm, timeless touch to your kitchen and table.