Why Wooden Board Care Matters
A wooden serving board is both a functional kitchen tool and a centerpiece for entertaining. Whether you're using it to present cheeses, charcuterie, or appetizers, proper care ensures it stays hygienic and visually appealing. Unlike ceramic or glass boards, wood requires a bit of routine attention to prevent drying, cracking, and staining.
How to Clean Your Wooden Serving Board
Cleaning a wooden board is simple but differs from washing plastic or non-porous boards. Follow these steps after each use.
- Rinse with hot water immediately after use: Use hot water and a mild dish soap. Avoid soaking the board or putting it in the dishwasher, as prolonged moisture can warp the wood.
- Scrub gently with a soft sponge: For stuck-on food, use a non-abrasive sponge. For tougher spots, sprinkle coarse salt and scrub with half a lemon, then rinse.
- Dry thoroughly with a clean towel: Stand the board on its edge to air dry completely before storing. Never store a wet board flat, as trapped moisture can cause mold.
When and How to Oil Your Board
Oiling a wooden board replenishes the natural oils that keep the wood from drying out and cracking. How often you oil depends on use: a board used weekly may need oiling every month, while a daily board might need it every two weeks. Use food-grade mineral oil or a specialized board conditioner. Apply a thin, even coat with a soft cloth, let it soak for several hours or overnight, then wipe off any excess before use.
What About Stains and Odors?
Wood naturally absorbs odors from strong foods like onions or garlic. To remove them, rub the board with a cut lemon and salt, then rinse and dry. For stubborn stains from berries or beets, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the wood and may leave residues.
Storage Tips for Long Life
Store your wooden board in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct heat sources like stoves or radiators. If you stack boards, place a paper towel or cloth between them to allow air circulation. Never store a board in a plastic bag or sealed container, as trapped moisture encourages mold.
Why Ceramic Boards Offer an Alternative
- Round Board: The Bahia Pierre de Lune collection offers a range of porcelain dinnerware with a contrasting finish. The duality of matte and shiny finishes enhances every culinary composition, from daily meals to the most elaborate presentations. If you prefer a low-maintenance option that never needs oiling and is dishwasher-safe, a porcelain board like the Round Board from the Bahia collection is a durable alternative for serving.
Round Board - Large Board: The Bahia Pierre de Lune collection offers a range of porcelain dinnerware with a contrasting finish. Its clean lines and luminous hue ensure visual harmony on the table. The Large Board (rectangular) provides a generous surface for sharing platters and is easy to clean without the special care required by wood.
Large Board - Round Board: Suitable for either savoury or sweet dishes, the enameled area of BAHIA boards means they can also be used as cutting boards. Made from mass-coloured stoneware for the coloured versions or from porcelain, DEGRENNE’s speciality, BAHIA boards use a unique enamelling technique to combine matt and gloss finishes. If you want a board that can double as a cutting surface without the maintenance of wood, the BAHIA Round Board (porcelain) offers that versatility with a beautiful finish.
