How to properly maintain your newly acquired Functional Art

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When you first receive your Functional Art, I like to suggest that you take a photo of it. That way, you can compare that photo to the Cutting Board over time. If your Cutting Board appears dull in color, and the surface feels "rough" that is an indication that Cutting Board Oil should be applied. Please note that over time your wood may darken through the natural process of oxidation. Oiling your board and applying Wood Wax will help slow the oxidation process, but it is not a panacea.

The DO NOTs

- Do not submerge your Cutting Board in water

- Do not place your Cutting Board inside of the dishwasher or microwave

- Do not use any raw meat products on your Cutting Board

- Do not use any household cleaning products (excluding Dawn dish soap) on your Cutting Board

- Do not use Olive Oil to oil your Cutting Board

- Do not place your Cutting Board on top of or near an in use or recently used heating source (such as a cooktop)

- Do not use any abrasive articles (such as steel wool) to scrub the Cutting Board surfaces

- Do not use your Cutting Board as a “hot plate” or coaster

Cleaning your Cutting Board

To properly clean your Cutting Board, you will need to know what is recommended based on the specific items used on it. 

Charcuterie purposes - Wiping the surface with a damp non-abrasive cloth (such as a paper towel) with warm water.

Cutting food products – Use a small dot of dish soap (preferably Dawn) and lightly scrub with a damp cloth and warm water.  

Personally, I strongly DO NOT recommend using any raw meat products on your piece. The juices from the raw meats can seep into the pours of the wood and cause long-term bacteria growth. Not good.

A warning of caution to using cooked meat products that contain spices and rubs. The juices can seep into the wood grains and stain the lighter colored woods. If you do decide to cut cooked meat products on your Cutting Board choose a face (front or back) that you do not mind becoming stained.  

Drying the Cutting Board after cleaning

-Use either a clean paper towel or clean dish towel to wipe the surface, then let it air dry. Make sure your board is not covered up to allow even drying of the surfaces. I recommend using a drying rack. If your Cutting Board has feet, the use of a drying rack is not needed. 

Applying Cutting Board Oil

· When the time comes to apply Cutting Board Oil, you can use the complimentary supplied 2 FL OZ bottle of Walrus Oil. 

· Simply pour a “small” amount over the surface of the Cutting Board. Then rub it into the board using your hand. Be sure to get complete coverage of all surfaces, the front, back, both sides, top, and bottom. This is an important step that will ensure the longevity of your board.

· Let it sit for 24 hours. I recommend the use of a drying rack to allow proper airflow to all sides. If a drying rack is not available, you can stand the board on its side then rotate it to its opposing side after 12 hours. If your Cutting Board has feet, the use of a drying rack is not necessary. 

· After 24 hours proceed to wipe off any access oil with a dry rag or paper towel.

· There may be certain species of wood that require additional oil. Usually, they visually appear and feel drier than the other surrounding woods. Apply oil to those areas until satisfied. 

· I only recommend the use of Walrus Oil Cutting Board Oil. When your complimentary bottle runs out it can be found online at Amazon, Walrusoil.com, and at some Lowe’s Stores.

Applying Wood Wax

If you plan on not using your Functional Art for a long duration (a few weeks or months), I suggest applying Wood Wax upon completing the entire process of applying Cutting Board Oil. The Wood Wax is primarily used to help seal your Cutting Board by locking in the Cutting Board Oil. It also helps prevent unwanted moisture changes due to environmental factors such as temperature and humidity fluctuations between seasons. You can apply the wax using your fingers or a lint free cloth. I recommend rubbing it into the board surfaces using a circular motion. Once the board is completely covered, let the wax sit for 20 to 30 minutes. Then buff away with a lint free cloth. 

Message of Gratitude 

Thank you for choosing to purchase a one-of-a-kind piece of Functional Art from the Meticulous Craftsman. With proper care, your Functional Art will last multiple lifetimes. I sincerely hope my goal has been met to enhance the quality of your life! 

Cheers, 

Meticulous Craftsman

Kolby Rubeling