Care Instructions for Your Handcrafted Chopping and Charcuterie Boards

At Niddry Design, each of our Chopping and Charcuterie Boards is individually handcrafted with care, using a variety of high-quality hardwoods. These woods, being natural materials, will naturally react to environmental factors, especially changes in moisture. Due to this, your board will experience some expansion and contraction over time. To ensure that your board stays in top condition for years to come, I've put together these comprehensive care guidelines.

By following these simple steps and taking a little extra care, you’ll be able to maintain the beauty, durability, and functionality of your board for many years.

Understanding Natural Wood Movement

Natural wood is a living material that responds to the moisture levels in its environment. This means your board may swell, shrink, or even develop slight warping. These changes are completely normal and are part of the natural process of wood reacting to humidity and moisture.

Swelling and Shrinking

It is perfectly normal for your board to swell or shrink along the grain of the wood. This can happen when the board absorbs moisture from water, oils, or humidity. The grain will expand when it absorbs moisture and contract when it dries out. This movement is usually subtle, but over time, it can affect the shape of the board.

Cupping and Crowning

Another common occurrence with wooden boards is cupping (where the edges of the board rise) or crowning (where the middle of the board rises). This happens when one side of the board absorbs more moisture than the other, causing the board to warp slightly. For instance, if the top surface of your board gets wet, it may swell, while the bottom remains unaffected, resulting in a crowned shape.

If you notice this happening, don't worry. It’s a natural response, and the board should return to normal once it dries. If the warping is persistent, you can even dampen the bottom of the board to help balance the moisture levels and even out the shape.

However, if your board is experiencing frequent warping or moisture imbalances, it may need to be resealed. You can easily restore its condition with the right products such as food-safe mineral oil, blended oils, or beeswax. 

How to Prevent Warping and Damage

Wooden boards can be long-lasting and resilient if they are taken care of properly. The following tips can help prevent warping, cracking, or damage to your chopping or charcuterie board:

1. Avoid Heat Damage

One of the most important rules is to never expose your board to extreme heat. This includes placing it in a dishwasher, oven, microwave, or leaving it on top of a radiator or any other heat source. The high temperatures generated by these appliances can cause the wood to dry out too quickly, warp, crack, or even permanently damage the board. Always treat your board with care and avoid placing it near direct heat sources.

2. Proper Cleaning Practices

When it comes to cleaning your wooden board, the goal is to avoid soaking it in water for long periods of time. Water can cause wood to expand and weaken over time. Instead, wash your board briefly with warm water and mild dish soap. After cleaning, always dry it promptly with a towel. To ensure that the moisture on both sides of the board evaporates at an even rate, allow your board to dry on its side, not flat. This prevents uneven drying that could lead to warping.

3. Proper Storage

To maintain the balance of moisture in your board, store it on its side when it’s not in use, especially if your board doesn’t have rubber feet. This prevents one side from absorbing moisture faster than the other, which can cause uneven swelling or shrinkage. This simple step helps the board stay balanced and prolongs its life.

4. Regular Oiling and Sealing

To keep your board well-conditioned, oil it at least once a year with food-safe mineral oil, or apply a mineral oil and beeswax mixture for additional protection. Oiling helps maintain the wood’s natural beauty while sealing it against moisture and other elements. If your board is used frequently or exposed to moisture often, you might want to oil it more often.

Our Commitment to Quality

I take great pride in using only the finest materials for my boards. All glues and finishes used are food-safe, so you can be confident that your board is safe for preparing and serving food. The boards are finished using a blend of mineral oil and beeswax, which enhances the natural grain and texture of the wood while providing a durable, food-safe surface.

How to Apply Oil or Oil and Beeswax Mixture

Properly applying oil or beeswax will keep your board in excellent condition. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a flawless finish:

1. Preparation: Make sure the board is completely clean and dry before applying any oil or wax. This ensures that the oil can be properly absorbed into the wood. If necessary, wipe down the board with a damp cloth and allow it to dry completely before proceeding.
   
    
2. Choose the Right Cloth: Use a clean, plain white linen cloth or a plain kitchen towel to apply the oil or beeswax mixture. Avoid using colored or patterned cloths that could potentially transfer dyes or other residues to the board.
   
    
3. Applying the Oil: Dip your cloth into the oil or oil and beeswax mixture. Gently rub the oil into the board’s surface, working it into the wood in even, circular motions. The oil will darken the wood slightly, which will make it easier to see areas that may need additional oiling.
   
    
4. Even Coverage: Make sure to apply the oil evenly across all areas of the board, paying special attention to any dry spots. An even coat helps ensure that the board absorbs the oil evenly and retains its beautiful finish.
   
    
5. Drying: After applying the oil, set your board aside on a baking rack to allow air circulation. Let the board dry overnight so that the oil can fully absorb into the wood. The oil will soak into the fibres, leaving the board soft, nourished, and protected.
   
    

In Summary

With just a little attention and care, your hardwood chopping and charcuterie board will remain an essential part of your kitchen for years to come. By following these simple yet effective care guidelines, you can keep your board looking its best and performing at its peak. Regular oiling, proper cleaning, and careful storage are all that’s needed to preserve the beauty and longevity of your handmade wooden board.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at Niddry Design. I am happy to help you keep your board in perfect condition!