Wood countertops and cutting boards bring unmatched warmth, character, and function to the kitchen, but to keep them performing beautifully for years to come, a little regular care goes a long way.
At Grothouse, we craft every solid wood surface to last a lifetime. But like any natural material, wood thrives when it’s treated with the right touch. Whether you own one of our handcrafted cutting boards or a full butcher block countertop, here’s what you need to know about keeping it in peak condition—featuring our signature Original Oil™.
Why Wood Needs Conditioning
Wood is naturally porous. Over time, especially with daily use and regular washing, it can lose the oils that help protect it from moisture, cracking, and staining. Oiling replenishes those essential oils and creates a barrier that keeps your surface looking and performing its best.
Without regular maintenance, wood can dry out or become more prone to absorbing spills and odors. But with just a few minutes of care, you can preserve its rich, natural sheen for decades.
Meet Original Oil™: Our Go-To for Everyday Maintenance
Original Oil™ is the finish we recommend for all Grothouse surfaces that aren’t sealed with Durata®. It’s a food-safe, fragrance-free mineral oil blend specially formulated to nourish wood from the inside out without adding any unwanted color or scent.
It’s ideal for:
- End grain and edge grain cutting boards
- Butcher block countertops and island tops
- Wooden serving trays, bowls, and utensils
Buy Original Oil™ here for direct application at home.
How Often Should You Oil Your Surface?
It depends on how often you use it. As a general rule:
- High-use items (like cutting boards): Every 2–4 weeks
- Countertops in active kitchens: Once a month or whenever the wood starts to look dry or dull
- New pieces: Once a week for the first month to fully saturate the wood, then taper off
Pro tip: If water droplets soak into the surface instead of beading up, it’s time to re-oil.
Step-by-Step: How to Oil Your Wood Surface
- Clean the surface.
Use a damp cloth with a mild dish soap to wipe down the surface. Let it dry completely before oiling. - Apply the oil generously.
Pour a small amount of Original Oil™ directly onto the wood and spread it with a clean cloth, paper towel, or your hand. Work in the direction of the grain. - Let it soak in.
Give it at least 20–30 minutes to absorb. For dry or new surfaces, you may need to apply a second coat. - Wipe away the excess.
Buff off any oil that hasn’t soaked in with a clean, dry cloth. The surface should feel rich and nourished, not oily or sticky. - Let it rest.
Give it a few hours to fully settle in before placing anything on the surface.
What About Stains, Scratches, or Smells?
Wood is forgiving and surprisingly easy to refresh:
- Light stains can often be removed by sprinkling baking soda on the spot and scrubbing gently with a lemon wedge.
- Knife marks or scuffs may be lightly sanded with fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit or higher), then re-oiled.
- Lingering odors can usually be neutralized with a quick vinegar rinse or a sprinkle of kosher salt and water.
Still not sure how to handle an issue? Reach out to us here—we’re happy to advise based on your specific surface and finish.
A Few Things to Avoid
- Don’t use vegetable oils. They can go rancid and create sticky residue.
- Avoid harsh cleaners or bleach. These strip the natural oils and can damage the finish.
- Never soak your board or countertop. Prolonged water exposure causes swelling and warping.
- Skip the dishwasher. For cutting boards, this is especially important.
The Power of Routine Care
A well-cared-for wood surface isn’t just practical—it’s personal. Over time, it tells the story of your kitchen: every meal prepped, every family gathering, every moment shared around it. With a little routine maintenance and the right oil, your Grothouse piece will keep getting better with age.
