A Guide to Cutting Board Care

FORMULATED is the Tortuga Forma journal about the rituals we create around the home, the objects that bring us joy, and the stories behind how things are made.

Hardworking cutting boards take a beating with daily use, which is why regular care and maintenance is necessary to renew and keep your boards looking pristine. Always wash wooden kitchen boards by hand in warm or hot water with a mild detergent. Cutting boards should never go in the dishwasher.

To maintain your boards, source any food-safe oil. We recommend olive or mineral oil because they are readily available. Generously pour the oil directly on the board, and as you begin working it into the wood, you will see the board slowly absorbing the moisture, which "heals" cuts and dry areas. After thoroughly oiling the board on both sides (and edges), let it dry on a flat surface. Any slight bends or warps should straighten out.

Photos: Kelsey Cherry

The edges of our boards are inscribed with the Tortuga name. This wasn't just a branding exercise, but a practical tool for you to decide whether you want to use "TORTUGA side up" for chopping and "TORTUGA side down"  for serving, for example. This way, one side of the board remains unscarred and perfect for your cheese board presentations. 

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