- Perform daily cleaning with soap, water, and a sponge
- Disinfect your butcher block at least once a week with vinegar
- Sprinkle coarse salt and rub with half of a lemon to remove any stubborn stains you have on the butcher block
How to refinish and restore your butcher block?
Restoring a Butcher-Block Countertop
- Bleach Mildew Stains. Stir a teaspoon of powdered oxygen bleach (sodium percarbonate) into a cup of hot water until it dissolves.
- Sand Burn Marks, Knife Cuts. Use a coarse, 60-grit sandpaper or sanding sponge to abrade the discolored wood, but don’t try to get rid of it entirely: Sanding ...
- Dissolve Wine Stains. ...
- Sand. ...
- Fill Cracks. ...
- Seal. ...
- Safe Finishes. ...
What can I use to clean a wooden butcher block?
To complete this project, you will need:
- Natural soap or dish soap
- Scrubbing sponge
- Scrub brush
- White vinegar
- Lemon juice
- Table or kosher salt
- Mineral oil or other sealing oil
- Clean cloth or paper towels
What are the best woods for butcher block?
Which Wood is Best for a Butcher Block Kitchen Island?
- Popular Wood for a Butcher Block Kitchen Island
- Choose Cherry Wood for Your Butcher Block Kitchen Island. ...
- Consider Ash for Your Butcher Block Kitchen Island. ...
- Pick Out Hickory for Your Butcher Block Kitchen Island. ...
- Think About Maple for Your Butcher Block Island. ...
- Choose Oak for Your Kitchen Island. ...
- Mahogany Will Enhance the Look of Your Kitchen. ...
What do you need to know about butcher block?
Butcher block is made of wood planks glued together and dried under pressure. There are three types of construction: End Grain: The cut ends face up and create a checkerboard effect. This is the most expensive and most durable option for chopping. Think antique butcher tables with chunky legs.
Does butcher block need maintenance?
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.
How often should you condition butcher block?
Assuming you followed the instructions regarding finishing before installation, you will need to apply on your hardwood countertop a new coat of oil every month during the first year and once every six months or so ever after.
What do you put on a butcher block to protect it?
There are two types of sealants to use on butcher block countertops: oil and film finish. And, there are two types of oil sealants: evaporating and polymerizing. The best option for your kitchen depends on what you intend to do on the surface.
How do you make a butcher block more durable?
Sealing Butcher Block Countertops with Mineral Oil To seal butcher block with mineral oil, you simply apply the mineral oil generously, let it soak in, and wipe off the excess. You need to do it fairly regularly at first but then only about once a month after you've gotten through several applications.
What oil is best for butcher block?
Food-grade mineral oilFood-grade mineral oil is the most common oil to use on a butcher block or cutting board. Other popular options include walnut oil, and, in the case of cutting board conditioner, beeswax and carnauba wax.
How do you treat butcher block for the first time?
Treat your butcher block to a facial to keep it fresh and glowy. After a few weeks of heavy use, wash and dry your block the way you typically would (see tip #1) and apply a generous layer of mineral oil* with a lint-free rag over the entire surface. Let it soak in for 2-3 hours.
How do you permanently seal a butcher block?
A penetrating sealer soaks into a substrate such as wood, concrete or stone, and it seals the pores from the inside. Once it cures, moisture is not able to penetrate the surface. Natural oils are excellent penetrating sealers, and they're nontoxic, easy to use and make the wood look rich and luxurious.
Can butcher block get wet?
“They Aren't Water Resistant” With a coating of water-resistant, food-safe mineral oil like McClure's Organic Color Seal, water and moisture shouldn't be a problem for butcher block countertops. Water-resistant finishes are widely available and should prevent all moisture from seeping into hardwood countertops.
How do you treat an unfinished butcher block?
0:574:17How To Seal Butcher Block Countertops - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFree has no smells. And it won't go rancid. If you try to use other oils like olive oil or cookingMoreFree has no smells. And it won't go rancid. If you try to use other oils like olive oil or cooking oil canola. Oil those types of things it'll it'll go bad on you there's other oils. You can use.
Do you put polyurethane on butcher block countertops?
Follow these steps to easily waterproof your butcher block countertops with Polyurethane: Sand the counters until they're completely clean. Vacuum any dirt off the surface and apply a natural stain. Apply a thick coat of Polyurethane, a liquid coating that dries into a plastic.
Should you sand butcher block?
Sanding between coats is highly recommended for polyurethanes. This will ensure you a smooth high-quality finish. Normally done with 220 or 320 grit sandpaper or sanding sponge. Be sure to remove all dust created from sanding with a damp cloth before applying additional coats.
Is it safe to stain butcher block?
We don't recommend using a stain on a butcher block counter top because the stain is most likely not food safe. The stain could seep out of the counter and into your food, causing the food to taste bad and possibly be toxic. Our Cutting Board Oil and Butcher Block Conditioner are better alternatives and are food safe.
Can you over oil a butcher block?
There is no such thing as using too much butcher block oil. Once the wood is fully saturated with oil, it will not take on any more oil.
How long does a butcher block countertop last?
around 20 yearsButcher block countertops will last around 20 years, which compares to other countertops like granite. Butcher block will last longer than laminate countertops but need monthly resealing to have a long lifespan. Butcher blocks also need occasional resurfacing to remove deep stains, dings and scratches.
Are butcher block countertops high maintenance?
1. You'll have to take care of them. While pretty, butcher block countertops require much more maintenance than their marble or stone counterparts. You'll have to treat the surface with mineral oil to protect the natural wood and use sandpaper to sand down and fill in any nicks or scratches that have occurred.
How do you treat an unfinished butcher block?
0:574:17How To Seal Butcher Block Countertops - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFree has no smells. And it won't go rancid. If you try to use other oils like olive oil or cookingMoreFree has no smells. And it won't go rancid. If you try to use other oils like olive oil or cooking oil canola. Oil those types of things it'll it'll go bad on you there's other oils. You can use.
Why do you need to reapply butcher block finish?
If the butcher block top is modified by cutting, machining or sanding, the finish must be reapplied to prevent cracking, delamination and/or warping. These modifications must be sealed immediately to prevent moisture change within the top.
How to clean a wood block?
Be sure to coat the top, bottom, ends and edges of the block every time you oil it. Apply oil often, especially when the block appears to be dry.#N#3. DO NOT submerse the board in water. Instead, clean it with a wet cloth or sponge using a mild liquid detergent. You can use a disinfecting cleanser or a mixture of 1 tsp. chlorine bleach to 1 quart of water . Rinse well. Do not use powder cleanser.#N#4. Allow the board to dry in a rack or with the board standing on edge to ensure sufficient air flow all the way around the board.#N#5. When determining how often to oil a block, the general rule of thumb is once a day for a week upon purchase; once a week for a month; and once a month forever. The block should be oiled whenever the wood starts to look dry and chalky.
How to clean a sanded out board?
DO NOT submerse the board in water. Instead, clean it with a wet cloth or sponge using a mild liquid detergent. You can use a disinfecting cleanser or a mixture of 1 tsp. chlorine bleach to 1 quart of water. Rinse well. Do not use powder cleanser.
Is butcher block safe?
Cutting and food preparation surfaces made of solid hardwood butcher block are food-safe, cutlery-friendly and will endure a lifetime of use when properly maintained. Follow these cleaning and care tips to extend the life and performance of your butcher block surface.
Can you refinish a butcher block?
Wood Welded butcher block is suited for cutting and food preparation directly on the surface, however, this may degrade the finish, requiring the block to be refinished more quickly . The decision to refinish should be based on personal preference.
What is the best way to clean butcher block?
Food residue may be scraped away with a smooth, flat, and ideally plastic spatula, and the surface should be sponged off with only mild-dishwashing soap. Undiluted vinegar, by the by, works great for cleaning and disinfecting butcher block, and this type of vinegar does not leave behind a strong, pungent odor.
How long does butcher block last?
Properly cared for, butcher block can last a lifetime. No other countertop boasts such longevity (or forgives so much). If you have butcher block counters ...
What is butcher block counter?
In some homes, butcher block counters serve as the main food prep surface. If your kitchen boasts only butcher block counters, be conscious of the fact that inadvertently you may be causing uneven wear.
Is butcher block countertop maintenance?
Butcher block counters are a perennial favorite in the kitchen, though many homeowners worry about the care and maintenance the surface potentially demands. It’s true that butcher block probably does require a bit more attention than other countertop materials, but it’s not particularly difficult work, ...
Can you leave damp cloths on butcher block?
Also, since wood absorbs moisture quickly, it’s a mistake to leave damp cloths or spills for any prolonged period of time on the wood surface. When not in use, you want the butcher block to remain relatively dry. As you cook, rub down the counters occasionally with a dry cloth in order to minimize moisture. That way, you can help preserve the butcher block for years to come!
Do you need to clean butcher block?
Daily cleaning does not take long and requires no special tools or materials , but time is of the essence: Clean butcher block before the wood grain has the chance to absorb stains and become discolored.
Can you refinish butcher block?
The beauty of butcher block is that, if it should ever become irredeemably stained, you can always refinish it. (You might also choose to do so, if the surface sees uneven wear.) First, use a coarse-grit sandpaper to rub out the stain, then switch to a finer git so that you can smooth things out.
What to use to remove stuck food from butcher block?
After food preparation is complete, use a plastic scraper to loosen and remove all stuck-on food and debris from the butcher block.
How to get mold off butcher block?
Mold and mildew can be removed from butcher block surfaces by spraying a diluted solution of chlorine bleach and water. Mix one teaspoon of bleach in one quart of water. Spritz on the surface and let stand for five minutes. Be sure to wear protective gloves and wipe away the mildew with a paper towel.
How to get rid of tannins on butcher block?
For areas of the butcher block left discolored by the tannins in fruits and vegetables, mix a paste of table salt and lemon juice. Apply the paste to the discolored area, cover with plastic wrap, and let it sit for at least 10 to 15 minutes. When time is up, scrub the area with a sponge.
How long does it take for oil to dry on a butcher block?
Continue to rub the oil into the wood with cotton cloths. The oil should penetrate the surface quickly and dry within 30 minutes.
How long does it take for oil to dry on wood?
Continue to rub the oil into the wood with cotton cloths. The oil should penetrate the surface quickly and dry within 30 minutes.
Is butcher block cheaper than stone?
If you are opting for an island or counters topped with butcher block, it is much less expensive than stone options. However, the key to keeping the surface beautiful is keeping it sealed to prevent damage from water and kitchen liquids. Maintaining butcher block is a breeze.
Can you soak butcher block cutting board?
Avoid exposing butcher block surfaces to excessive amounts of water over an extended period. Never soak a butcher block cutting board or leave water standing on a sealed butcher block surface.
What is butcher block?
Butcher block is made by gluing several pieces of wood together. Though classic, stone countertops can sometimes make a space feel cold and standoffish. Thick slabs of walnut and mahogany will instantly warm up a kitchen, making it the most inviting room in a home.
How to restore butcher block countertops?
Start with a clean countertop, and then pour on the mineral oil, spreading over the surface with a cloth. Let it sink it and dry for an hour. Then apply another coat. Condition butcher-block countertops every few months to restore their natural sheen. 3.
How to keep butcher block countertops from smelling?
Don't use a food oil, like olive or vegetable oil, which will oxidize on the surface and start to smell. Start with a clean countertop, and then pour on the mineral oil, spreading over the surface with a cloth. Let it sink it and dry for an hour. Then apply another coat. Condition butcher-block countertops every few months to restore their natural sheen.
Is butcher block a porous surface?
Butcher block is a porous surface. Protect against mold and rot by wiping up puddles of water as soon as you notice them. Wood also expands and contracts when it gets wet, so if avoidable, pass on surrounding your kitchen sink with butcher block. If you do, make sure the edges are thoroughly sealed.
Can you chop meat on a butcher block countertop?
Butcher-block countertops are basically built-in cutting boards. You can chop fruits and vegetables directly on the surface. (For sanitary reasons, slicing meat, poultry, or fish should probably be done on a cutting board.) Inevitably, knives will cut nicks and scratches into the surface.
How to finish butcher block?
Finish up by using a dry cloth to thoroughly dry the surface of the block. Be sure not to leave any water sitting on the wood surface, as this may cause water spotting. If any spotting does occur, you can renew the surface of your butcher block by sanding it and reapplying a generous coat of block oil or cream.
How (often) should I re-oil my natural-oil butcher block?
If you allow a board or block with a natural oil finish to get too dry, it could split or crack , so it's critically important that you clean and oil it regularly. This can also extend its natural beauty and useful life.
How to clean a block board?
Next, wash the board’s surface using a dish cloth dipped in soapy water. Once done cleaning the board, wash and rinse the dish cloth, wring it out, then wipe the block surface clean. Finish up by using a dry cloth to thoroughly dry ...
How to clean a wood block?
Use a dish cloth dipped in mild soap and warm water to clean the block's surface. Wash, rinse and wring the cloth, then use it to wipe the wood one more time. Use a dry cloth to dry the wood. Although Varnique is impervious to most household cleaners, it would not be wise to test its limits.
How to get rid of a sanded sand block?
To remedy this, apply a generous amount of oil and spread it evenly using a plastic grocery bag. (This is preferred to using a cloth, which will absorb and retain much of the oil). Smooth it out over the top and sides of the block and allow it to stand overnight.
Can you stand water in butcher blocks?
Keep butcher blocks out of direct sunlight and do not allow water or other liquids to stand.
Can you over oil butcher block?
IMPORTANT NOTES: It's equally important that you NOT over-oil butcher block. Over-oiling can cause wood fibers to prematurely break down. In rare instances, mineral oil will raise the grain of the wood very slightly on new blocks, leaving a patch that’s rough to the touch.
How to clean butcher block?
Using a sponge, rub the salt and juice paste onto the counter (Image 2 below). This will help remove any spots in the butcher block and will further disinfect the surface. Mix lemon juice and salt for stuck-on areas . For hard to clean areas, use a mixture of salt and lemon juice.
How to clean butcher block countertops?
Step 1: Scrub the Countertop. Remove everything from the countertops. 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 ...
What is the trickiest part of cleaning tile countertops?
When it comes to cleaning tile countertops, grout is the trickiest part. Learn how to clean both the tile and the grout with our easy-to-follow steps.
How long does it take to disinfect a counter?
Pour white vinegar onto a clean dish towel, and wipe the entire counter down to disinfect it. Let the vinegar sit for 15 minutes.
What is a walnut butcher block top?
A rich European Walnut butcher block top adds character to the multi-functional island that offers prep space and a spot for family and friends to gather while meals are prepared.
What to do when you have a stuck on area?
Mix lemon juice and salt for stuck-on areas.
Can you cut raw meat on butcher block?
Butcher block works double duty as a cutting surface — you can cut vegetables and other food items directly on the countertop. The scratches on the surface harbor bacteria, so avoid cutting raw meat. To prolong the life of your butcher block countertops, reseal it with a butcher block wax and oil combo once a month and clean it properly. Below, we share steps on how to keep your countertops clean using simple household ingredients.
What are butcher block countertops?
Butcher block is a specific type of wood constructed for kitchen prep work, which isn't recommended for other wood styles.
How much does a butcher block countertop cost?
Butcher block typically runs between $30 and $40 per square foot, but it depends on the type of wood you choose (higher end woods can run as high as $180 to 200). Many people take the DIY route for installation, but the labor cost for hired installation is typically between $50 and $70 per square foot.
How do you maintain a butcher block countertop?
The biggest enemy of butcher block countertops is water, says Karen. While you should not put hot pots and pans directly on the surface, she's less concerned about heat than she is about water damage and regular maintenance.
What are the pros of a butcher block countertop?
Style: The wood is not only cozy and warm, but it's versatile as you can choose from many different patterns, grains, and colors. You can use it for countertops, kitchen islands, end tables, and kitchen tables.
What are the cons of a butcher block countertop?
Care: Okay, take this as a pro or a con. It's easy to refinish a butcher block counter, but it will require some regular upkeep. They're susceptible to scratches and nicks, and they're porous. The up-side is that stains and burns, along with the requisite re-oiling, will contribute to a deep, rich patina that develops over time.
Why choose a butcher block countertop?
If you're indecisive when starting a kitchen remodel, butcher blocks are a nice choice because they can be used in conjunction with other surface materials. Just look at The Lodge's kitchen island: the food prep side is butcher block and the other side is concrete.
Can you use butcher block outdoors?
You can use the butcher block outdoors. Since the butcher block can bear the weather, direct sunlight, and water, you can use it inside and outside the house. It will give you the best feeling of using different versions of the butcher block. Besides, you can seal the butcher block.
Is butcher block good for outdoor kitchen?
The butcher block is good for an outdoor kitchen. You can cut pretty much everything on its surface and use it for other purposes. Especially if you love to cook steak and other recipes outside the home, the butcher block will be your best option.
Is butcher block waterproof?
The butcher block is not waterproof, but you can turn the countertop into a water-resistant surface using mineral oil-based paint. You will also find some sealer that will waterproof your butcher block, and you can safely use it outdoors.
Will butcher block warp outside?
Butcher block can warp outside. The butcher block is made of hardwood, which is a living thing. Dry temperature shrinks the wood, and in humid temperature, it expands, absorbing moisture. This causes cracking or warping.
How does butcher block hold up outside?
The Butcher Block does not hold up outside very well. As made of wood, it does absorb heat and moisture. Even if you use it indoors, you need to keep oiling it and maintain it with care. Moreover, if you use it outside, it will not hold up well.
3 reasons why you can use butcher block outdoors
Waterproof, strong build and versatile use are the three main reasons you can use butcher block outdoors. We will explain them in detail in this section to clear your thoughts and prove that the butcher block is the best available outdoor kitchen material.
How to seal butcher block for outdoor use?
You can seal the butcher block for outdoor use by following this process.
