What Oil to Use on a Wooden Cutting Board (And Which to Avoid!)

Posted by Helena Kostina on January 28, 2026

Wooden cutting boards are long-lasting and hygienic, as well as beautiful, but they can only stay that way if they are properly maintained. The good news is that maintenance isn’t all that hard.

One of the most important steps is oiling: using the wrong kind of oil can damage the wood, result in bad odours or even make the board unsafe for food.

Below, you will find exactly what oil to use on a wooden cutting board, how to use it correctly and which oils to avoid.

Why wooden cutting boards need oiling

Wood is naturally porous, which means that, without oil, it would absorb water from washing and juices from food, which could lead to damage to the surface or changes in texture. Regular oiling helps to:

Protect the board from water and stains
Prevent drying and splitting
Keep the surface smooth and easier to clean
Extend the lifespan of the wood

So in short, oil acts as a protective barrier that keeps the wood healthy and functional.

What type of oil should you use on a wooden cutting board

Since your board will come in contact with food, special care in the choice of oil is required: the best options are food safe, stable and non drying oils.

Mineral oil

Mineral oil is the most commonly recommended option and for good reason.

It’s food safe and has no taste
It doesn’t go rancid
It penetrates the wood deeply

In short, one of the best and safest options.

Beeswax and oil blends

Some products combine mineral oil with beeswax; the latter is another natural ingredient that can do excellent things for your board. This is probably the second commonest option.

Adds extra water resistance
Creates a light protective seal
Ideal for finishing or maintaining boards

This type of blend is especially useful as a complement, after the board has already been treated with regular mineral oil.

Other food safe oils

Some alternatives can work well, if they are refined and stable, such as camellia oil or fractionated coconut oil. These oils do not spoil easily and are sometimes used for premium board care, though mineral oil does remain the most reliable and widely available option.

Oils you should avoid using on wooden cutting boards

This is an important section to pay attention to, as a lot of people make mistakes. Just because an oil is edible, that doesn’t mean that it’s suitable for wood!

Olive oil and vegetable oils

Olive oil, sunflower oil and other common cooking oils should be avoided.

They oxidise and go rancid over time
They can leave sticky residues
They cause unpleasant smells

You’ll be better served by these oils by keeping them for the actual food.

Flaxseed and nut oils

These are drying oils, meaning they harden as they cure.

Can create uneven surfaces
Risk of cracking
Potential allergy concerns

These can be excellent choices for the rest of your furniture, but not for surfaces where you prepare food.

How do you oil a wooden cutting board step by step

Oiling a board is simple and only takes a few minutes.
Start by cleaning the board. Simply use water and soap.
Let it dry completely.
Using, for example, a paper towel, apply the oil generously.
Take care to spread it evenly across all the surface and edges.
Let the oil soak in for several hours.
Wipe off any excess oil.

If the board is new, repeat the process once or twice until the wood no longer absorbs oil easily.

How often should you oil a wooden cutting board

There is no fixed rule, but a good guideline is once every three to four weeks, if you use it regularly.

You should also oil the board when:

The surface looks dry or pale
Water no longer beads on the surface
The wood feels rough to the touch

Boards used daily or washed frequently may need oiling more often.

FAQs about oiling wooden cutting boards

What is the best oil for treating wood cutting boards?

Food grade mineral oil is the safest and most widely recommended option.

Can you use cooking oil on a cutting board?

No - most cooking oils go rancid and should be avoided.

Is mineral oil safe for food preparation?

Yes, when it is food grade and intended for kitchen use.

What happens if you do not oil a wooden cutting board?

The board can dry out, crack and absorb moisture and bacteria more easily.

Final thoughts

You shouldn’t neglect paying attention to the kind of oil you are using on your wooden cutting board, as it makes a real difference in how long it lasts and how safe it is to use. With proper care - which isn’t difficult to do - a wooden cutting board can last for many years while staying hygienic and looking as good as new.

Stick to food safe, stable oils like mineral oil, avoid common kitchen oils, and oil your board regularly.

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.