Wooden cutting boards are more than just kitchen tools — they’re an investment in quality cooking and presentation. With proper care, a wooden board can last for years, even decades. One of the most important aspects of care is oiling your cutting board. The right oil not only protects your board from drying and cracking but also keeps it looking beautiful.
At Chop Chop, we finish all our boards with high-quality food-grade mineral oil before they leave our workshop — so they’re ready to use the moment they arrive at your kitchen. But to keep your board in top condition, regular oiling at home is key.
Different Types of Food-Safe Oils for Wooden Boards
Not all oils are created equal. Here are the most common food-safe options:
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Mineral Oil – Odorless, tasteless, non-toxic, and won’t go rancid. It’s our top choice at Chop Chop for finishing boards.
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Linseed (Flaxseed) Oil – Dries to a hard finish, but can take longer to cure and may have a natural scent.
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Beeswax – Often used in combination with mineral oil for an added water-resistant finish and extra shine.
Why Mineral Oil is the Best Choice
At Chop Chop, we exclusively use food-grade mineral oil because:
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It’s tasteless and odorless — won’t affect your food.
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It’s 100% safe for food contact.
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It does not go rancid like some plant-based oils.
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It deeply penetrates wood fibers, protecting from moisture and preventing cracks.
This is why every Chop Chop board is pre-finished with mineral oil before shipping. You can start using it immediately, knowing it’s protected.
How to Apply Oil to Your Wooden Cutting Board
Oiling your board is easy and takes just a few minutes:
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Clean your board – Wash with mild soap and warm water, then dry completely.
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Apply the oil – Use a clean, lint-free cloth to spread mineral oil evenly over all surfaces (front, back, sides).
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Let it soak – Allow the oil to penetrate for several hours or overnight.
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Wipe off excess – Buff with a dry cloth to remove any remaining oil.
How Often Should You Oil Your Board?
A good rule of thumb:
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Once a month for moderate use.
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More often if you use it daily or notice dryness.
Signs your board needs oiling:
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The surface looks dry or faded.
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Water no longer beads on the surface.
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Small cracks or rough patches appear.
Final Tip from Chop Chop
Oiling your board regularly is the easiest way to keep it looking beautiful and performing perfectly for years. With Chop Chop’s pre-finished boards, you’re already starting with the best foundation — now it’s just about maintaining that quality with a little care over time.