Caring for butcher block countertops is the ultimate key to their long lifespan and enjoying them for many years. Thankfully, butcher block countertops are family-friendly and low maintenance. Perfect for enjoying time in the kitchen without spending hours or a fortune on maintaining the countertops. So how to care for butcher block countertops?
Cleaning Butcher Blocks
- The first step is to remove everything, including any appliances that live on the countertop.
- Once everything is clear, use a washcloth with warm water and gentle dish soap to wipe down the entire surface. Take care to only use a damp washcloth and to not leave excess water on the wood countertop. (It’s encouraged to scrub with the wood grain to ensure all dirt and crumbs is knocked loose)
- Rinse or use a clean, damp washcloth to rinse and pick up anything that is left
- Do Not saturate the countertop with water
- Thoroughly pat the countertop dry with a towel
- Run your hands over the countertop to feel for anything stuck on the surface or gritty areas
Additional Cleaning: Stuck-on Dirt/Debris and Stains
- Use a dough scraper or scouring pad to help remove stubborn areas of gunk.
- If any stains have settled into the butcher block, they can be removed by a magic eraser sponge or sanding. (Remember to use sandpaper in the order: coarse, medium, fine grit for the best results)
- Once again, rinse or use a clean, damp washcloth to pick up anything that was knocked loose. Thoroughly pat dry, then feel for any gritty areas that was missed.
After Cleaning…
After the butcher block is thoroughly dry, it’s time to recondition the butcher block. Using a food-safe oil, rub the oil into the butcher block until it no longer soaks in. Wipe up any excess oil. We'll go more in depth on this in our next blog.
Protecting Your Butcher Block Countertops
On top of reapplying oil, there are other ways to help protect your butcher block countertops including:
- Avoid using harsh chemicals to clean the countertops
- Try using a cutting board for juicy foods that can leave stains
- Never leave wet dishes, towels, or washcloths on the wood
Butcher Block Countertops from Heritage Oak
Butcher block countertops are perfect for a variety of homes and uses! With a unique charm and character, they blend well with aestblished aethetic and modern appliances. If you’re considering installing butcher block countertops in your home, reach out to our hardwood experts at Heritage Oak! We love to share information about our beautiful hardwood products and answer questions about our company. Next time, we’ll cover more on how to keep your butcher block countertops looking their best with oil maintenance. So check back often on our blog page!