Over time, butcher-block countertops can lose their luster and look dull and dry. Give them a refresh with food-safe mineral oil or butcher-block conditioner (available at home improvement stores). Don’t use a food oil, like olive or vegetable oil, which will oxidize on the surface and start to smell.
Do butcher block countertops need maintenance?
The company also notes that while they are beautiful options that go with many kitchen styles, butcher block countertop maintenance is a must. Butcher block countertops are prone to scratches and dents and may need to be refinished to eliminate blemishes—or consumers can embrace the look and let it patina.
How often do you have to seal butcher block countertops?
every 6-12 months
While butcher block countertops do require routine maintenance, resealing the surface is only required after every 6-12 months depending on the level of use. The same goes for natural stone countertops, which must be resealed over time to maintain the original quality and look.
How do you make butcher block countertops durable?
Butcher block needs routine maintenance to make it last. After installed and sealed, the butcher block needs to be sealed monthly to guard against stains, dings and nicks. Use a food-grade oil and apply it with a soft cloth to help prevent stains.
What is the best oil to use on butcher block countertops?
Food Grade Mineral Oil
Food Grade Mineral Oil: This is the top choice for butcher blocks, and it’s the primary ingredient in commercial sealing products. Look for food grade mineral oil in your local pharmacy – it’s also sold as a laxative – and it’ll be much cheaper in the pharmacy than in the hardware store.
Should you seal butcher block?
Once installed, it’s important to treat or seal the butcher block to keep it from drying out and staining. There are a lot of options for products to treat butcher block, but one of the simplest and least expensive is mineral oil.
How do you condition a new butcher block?
On new or raw wood surfaces, like cutting boards and butcher blocks, make sure to oil them with Cutting Board Oil. To properly oil new wood surfaces, apply at least 2 coats and let each coat soak in for at least an hour. For thick surfaces apply 3-4 coats.
How do you make butcher block waterproof?
To effectively seal your butcher block with a polymerizing oil, follow this regimen:
- Apply a coat of oil with a soft cloth.
- Wait 15 minutes.
- Buff it in.
- Wait 24 hours and repeat two more times.
Can you use Murphy oil soap on butcher block?
Varnished butcher block countertops can be cleaned with Murphy’s Oil Soap or with white vinegar and water (1 cup of vinegar to 1 gallon of water). White vinegar is a good antibacterial cleaning agent.
What do you clean a butcher block with?
Scrape off any caked-on dirt and wipe away crumbs. Next, add a few drops of dish soap to a wet sponge, and give the butcher block a good scrub. Scrubbing along the grain of the wood will make the countertops cleaner. Rinse the sponge, and wipe the counter down with the rinsed sponge.
Can I use Clorox wipes on butcher block?
Disinfecting. To disinfect your Traditions butcher block after cleaning use Lysol® or Clorox® Disinfecting Wipes. These wipes are available at Lowe’s, and report to kill 99.9% of viruses and bacteria when used as directed.
Can I use bleach on butcher block?
Bleach: Bleach should be used as a last resort as it may discolor the wood and the smell may linger for days. If you must use bleach, create a solution using equal parts bleach and water and apply to your butcher block using a damp sponge or rag.
