Clean It After Every Use

After each use, clean your maple and cherry cutting board with warm water and mild soap. Use a soft sponge, not a scouring pad. Scrubbing too hard can scratch the wood.

Rinse it well and make sure no food bits are left behind. Do not soak your board in water. That’s one of the fastest ways to ruin it. Wood absorbs water, and soaking can make it crack or warp.

Dry It the Right Way

Always dry your board right after washing. Use a clean towel to wipe it down. Then, stand it up on its side or place it somewhere it can get airflow.

Don’t let it sit flat on the counter while it dries. Moisture can get trapped underneath, and over time that leads to mold or bending.

Oil It to Keep It Smooth

Every few weeks, check if your board looks dry. If it does, it’s time to oil it. A dry board is more likely to crack or stain.

Use food-safe mineral oil or a cutting board conditioner. Rub the oil into your maple and cherry cutting board with a clean cloth. Let it sit overnight so the oil soaks in. Wipe off any extra the next day.

Oiling your board keeps it smooth, keeps water out, and makes the colors pop.

Sanitize Naturally

If your board smells like garlic or onions, or if you just want a deeper clean, try this trick:

Sprinkle some coarse salt or baking soda on the board. Then, rub it with half a lemon. This natural method kills germs, removes smells, and keeps your board fresh.

Wipe it down with a damp cloth afterward and dry it like usual.

Don’t Use the Dishwasher

Never, ever put your maple and cherry cutting board in the dishwasher. The heat, water, and soap can warp the wood and strip away its oils.

Hand wash only. It might take a little more time, but it’s worth it if you want your board to last for years.

Keep Meat Separate

Wood boards like these are great for cutting fruits, veggies, bread, and cheese. If you’re cutting raw meat, it’s better to use a plastic board or have a second wooden board just for that.

Even though wood is naturally resistant to bacteria, it’s still safer to avoid cross-contamination. You can keep your maple and cherry cutting board in perfect condition—and your food safe.

Sand It If Needed

Over time, you may notice small cuts, knife marks, or rough spots. That’s normal with regular use.

You can fix it easily with a bit of fine sandpaper. Lightly sand the surface, always going in the direction of the wood grain. After sanding, clean the board and oil it again.

It’ll look almost brand new.

Store It Properly

When not in use, store your board in a dry, cool spot. Don’t leave it near hot appliances like the oven or next to the sink.

Too much heat or moisture can damage the wood. Keep your maple and cherry cutting board standing upright or in a holder that lets air circulate around it.

Why Choose Maple and Cherry?

Maple is known for being hard and durable. It resists deep cuts and stands up well to knife work. Cherry adds a warm color and smooth texture. Together, they make a cutting board that’s strong, beautiful, and great to work on.

That’s why so many home cooks and chefs love using a maple and cherry cutting board—it’s a mix of style and strength.

Use Both Sides

You can make your board last even longer by using both sides. Some people cut on one side and use the other for serving. That way, one side stays nice and smooth.

It’s perfect for serving cheese, fruits, or snacks when guests come over. It looks classy and rustic at the same time.

Replace Only When Needed

With proper care, your maple and cherry cutting board can last for many years. But if it starts to crack deeply, warp badly, or feel unsafe, it may be time to replace it.

Luckily, if you follow the care tips above, you won’t need to worry about that for a long time.

A Bonus Tip: Make It a Centerpiece

Don't keep your cutting board hidden in a drawer. A well-maintained board looks beautiful on the counter or dinner table. It can add charm to your kitchen space.

Some people even hang their boards on the wall as part of their kitchen décor. It's functional and stylish.

FAQs

Q: How often should I oil my maple and cherry cutting board?

A: You should oil it every 3–4 weeks, or whenever it looks dry or rough. Regular oiling keeps the board smooth and helps prevent cracks.

Q: Can I use vegetable oil on my cutting board?

A: No, vegetable oils can go bad and cause a bad smell. Use food-grade mineral oil or a product made for cutting boards.

Q: What’s the best way to get rid of food smells?

A: Rub your board with lemon and salt or baking soda. This natural method works well to remove smells like garlic or onion.

Q: Is it okay to cut raw meat on a wooden board?

A: It’s better to use a separate board for raw meat to prevent bacteria from spreading. If you must use your wooden board, clean it right away and sanitize it.

Q: Why is my cutting board warping?

A: Warping usually happens when the board gets too wet or dries unevenly. Avoid soaking, and always dry it upright or on its edge.

Final Thoughts

A maple and cherry cutting board is one of those things that gets better with time—if you care for it properly. A little cleaning, drying, oiling, and smart storage can go a long way.

Your board will not only last but also stay beautiful and useful. Whether you're prepping dinner or serving guests, a well-maintained board adds both function and charm to your kitchen.