A wooden cutting board adds a warm, classic feel to any kitchen. If you own a maple and cherry cutting board, you already know how beautiful and functional it is. These boards are durable, look amazing, and are gentle on your knives. But to keep them in top shape, you need to give them proper care.
In this post, we’ll walk through simple ways to clean and preserve your maple and cherry board. No fancy tools or harsh chemicals needed—just easy steps anyone can follow at home.
Why Choose Maple and Cherry?
Before we jump into the care part, let’s take a moment to appreciate these two types of wood.
Maple is one of the hardest domestic woods. It’s tight-grained, smooth, and resists cuts and stains. That’s why it’s a favorite for cutting boards.
Cherry has a beautiful reddish hue that deepens over time. It’s a bit softer than maple, but still strong enough for regular use. When used together, they create a board that’s not only practical but also stunning to look at.
So, if you’ve got a maple and cherry cutting board, you’ve got something special.
Daily Cleaning: Quick and Easy
After each use, rinse the board with warm water. Use a soft sponge or dishcloth with a few drops of mild dish soap. Gently scrub the surface to remove food bits and stains.
Avoid soaking the board in water. Wood soaks up moisture, and that can lead to warping or cracking over time.
Once clean, wipe it dry with a towel. Then stand it up or lean it on its side so both surfaces can air dry completely.
Never put your wooden board in the dishwasher. The high heat and water pressure will ruin it.
Deep Cleaning: Once a Week or So
Every few uses, give your maple and cherry board a deeper clean.
Here’s how:
Sprinkle coarse salt or baking soda over the board.
Cut a lemon in half and use it to scrub the surface. The lemon juice helps sanitize, and the salt lifts away tough stains and smells.
Rinse with warm water and dry as usual.
This natural method works well, and it won’t harm the wood.
How to Disinfect Safely
If you’ve been cutting raw meat, you’ll want to disinfect the board. But no need for harsh bleach.
Mix one part white vinegar with four parts water and wipe down the surface. Vinegar is safe, natural, and helps kill bacteria.
Let the board sit for a minute, then rinse and dry.
The Magic of Oil: Keep It Moisturized
Wood, just like skin, needs moisture to stay healthy. If your maple and cherry cutting board starts to look dry or feels rough, it’s time to oil it.
Use food-grade mineral oil. Avoid cooking oils like olive or vegetable oil—they can turn rancid.
Here’s how to oil your board:
Pour a small amount of oil on the board.
Use a soft cloth or paper towel to rub it in. Cover all surfaces.
Let it soak in overnight if possible.
Wipe off any extra oil with a clean cloth.
You should oil your board once a month or whenever it looks dry.
Add a Wax Finish for Extra Protection
To go a step further, you can apply a beeswax-based conditioner. This gives your board a soft, smooth finish and adds a water-resistant layer.
You can find pre-made wax products or even make your own by mixing melted beeswax with mineral oil.
Rub the wax in with a cloth, let it sit for a few hours, then buff it with a dry towel.
Your board will look rich, feel silky, and last much longer.
Handle Cracks and Stains
Over time, small cracks may appear. If that happens, stop using the board for wet or raw foods until it’s fixed.
You can sand the surface lightly with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out rough spots or shallow cuts.
After sanding, clean the board and apply oil again. This will refresh the wood and help close up tiny cracks.
For stubborn stains, try a paste made of baking soda and water. Rub it on the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing.
Store It Right
Proper storage also plays a big role in preserving your board.
Keep it in a dry, cool place. Don’t lay it flat on a damp counter or stack it under heavy pans.
Stand it on its side so air can circulate and moisture won’t get trapped. If your board has a hole or handle, hang it on a hook.
Also, don’t store it in direct sunlight—it can cause the wood to dry out and fade.
Why Proper Care Matters
Taking care of your maple and cherry cutting board isn’t just about looks. A well-maintained board is safer, lasts longer, and gives you better performance in the kitchen.
Plus, a clean and cared-for board makes food prep feel better. You’ll enjoy using it more when it’s smooth, clean, and beautiful.
And let’s face it—nice tools inspire better cooking.
Final Thoughts
A maple and cherry cutting board is more than just a kitchen tool. It’s a piece of craftsmanship. With the right care, it will last for years, maybe even decades.
Clean it gently. Disinfect safely. Oil it regularly. Store it smart.
Do these simple things, and your board will reward you with great service and timeless beauty.
At Cronen Building Co., we believe in taking care of the things we build and the spaces we live in. Just like a well-built home, a quality cutting board needs care, attention, and a little love.
Want more tips on caring for wood in your home? Visit us at Cronen Building Co. to learn more about our remodeling, maintenance, and custom-building services in Portland.
