What oil is used to Condition a Cutting Board?

Question

I have a couple of wooden ones that get washed, bleached and I've used peroxide on them to clean. I've noticed some warping with one of them and a small split on the larger one. I know there is an oil used to condition them, but what is it and where can I find it?

These are all excellent answers and thanks for the web site, I checked it out already. I think as much as I use mine and the severe cleaning that I put them through that I really just want to perserve them, keep them from splitting and warping. Will the Olive oil help to prevent that? My method of cleaning is hot soapy antibacterial wash, then spray bleach or peroxide, rinse and dry. I know it's extreme but I am a bit compulsive about germs in my kitchen. Do I need to use the oil every time I clean the boards this way? Will olive oil be the best, since I doubt I'll give it a chance to turn rancid the way I clean? Or would you recommend one that may work better that wouldn't require re-applying every time.

These are all excellent answers and thanks for the web site, I checked it out already. I think as much as I use mine and the severe cleaning that I put them through that I really just want to perserve them, keep them from splitting and warping. Will the Olive oil help to prevent that? My method of cleaning is hot soapy antibacterial wash, then spray bleach or peroxide, rinse and dry. I know it's extreme but I am a bit compulsive about germs in my kitchen. Do I need to use the oil every time I clean the boards this way? Will olive oil be the best, since I doubt I'll give it a chance to turn rancid the way I clean? Or would you recommend one that may work better that wouldn't require re-applying every time.

Thanks to all for your answers, they are really appreciated. Headed to Wal Mart for mineral oil right now!

Answer 1

I was told to never use Olive Oil on my cutting board. Any kind of vegetable oils will also turn rancid. The best oil to use is just plain old mineral oil that you get from the drug store.
Martha Stewart just did a segment last week on how to care for your wooden cutting board and this is what she had to say about it: "No kitchen can do without a good cutting board, and many people prefer a particular type, like wooden or plastic. Those who choose wooden cutting boards will need to take extra care of them, and the following steps will help ensure that your board lasts a long time and is always safe from any food-borne bacteria.
When you’ve dirtied a board, clean both sides with a damp cloth and a mild antibacterial soap. Then rinse with hot water, wipe with a clean cloth, and allow it to dry in an upright position. Every few weeks, you’ll want to give it a little extra maintenance; generously sprinkle coarse salt over the surface of the board, and rub it with a sliced lemon. Rinse well with hot water.
If your cutting board is made from butcher block, you’ll also need to oil it. Once a month, heat a small amount of mineral oil in a pan, and apply it to the wood with a lint-free cloth, moving with the grain of the wood. Reapply after the wood soaks up the oil, and continue to apply until the wood stops absorbing the oil. Wipe off any excess, and allow the board to dry overnight.

Answer 2

You want to use an oil that doesn't have a strong odor, or taste. Safflower oil is good for this. You can not use anything toxic such as furniture oil. It has to be a vegetable oil. Safflower is a light oil, with basically no taste, or smell. It is what I use. Do not use the mineral oil that is talked about up above. Safflower oil won't get rank. Just wash your board after you use it and then lightly wipe it with the oil. Also, olive oil will leave a flavor on foods and will make your board smell.
I repeat, do NOT use mineral oil.
And don't use linseed oil. It is toxic. Tung oil is also toxic. I don't know where these people are getting their ideas from, but take my advice on this one. Before I became a truck driver, I made a living making furniture and cabinetry. I do know what oils are toxic. You have to wash the board after you use it anyway so that you don't get poisoned by salmonella bacteria. Safflower won't go rancid for a long time, as in many weeks.

Answer 3

Food Grade Mineral Oil Walmart

Answer 4

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
What oil is used to Condition a Cutting Board?
I have a couple of wooden ones that get washed, bleached and I've used peroxide on them to clean. I've noticed some warping with one of them and a small split on the larger one. I know there is an oil used to condition them, but what is it and where can I find it?

Answer 5

Mineral Oil.

I pour it on and let it sit for a couple of hours and then wipe it off.

You can get it next to the hydrogen peroxide and alcohol in pharmacies/Wally World. Its used as a laxative.

Don't use vegetable oils, they can go rank.

Answer 6

you need a food grade mineral oil that will not go off. or
linseed oil
poppy seed oil
tung oil

not olive oil or vegetable oil - they go rancid

remember - 'food grade' - some mineral oils have stuff in them that will be bad for you.

Answer 7

I've always used corn oil or canola for my butcher block. No problems.

Answer 8

This topic is worth everyone's attention

Answer 9

Vegetable or olive oil are best.

Answer 10

you can also use a water based mineral oil.... that way it wont acidentaly flavor what ever you cut on it