Caring for Your Wood

Caring for a charcuterie board is essential to maintain its appearance and ensure food safety. Whether you have a wooden, slate, or marble board, here are some tips on how to care for and clean your charcuterie board:

1. Clean immediately after use:

• As soon as your charcuterie board is empty, remove any food remnants, crumbs, or sauces from the surface. Use a paper towel or a damp cloth to wipe away any residue.

2. Hand wash with mild soap and water:

• Avoid using a dishwasher, as the high water pressure and temperature can damage the board. Instead, hand wash it with warm water and a mild dish soap. Don’t go crazy, just wash it down.

• Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the surface, especially if there are stubborn stains or food residue. Avoid abrasive scouring pads or brushes that could scratch the surface. Please don’t do this after every use, because it will feel a lot like work if you do.

3. Rinse and dry:

• After washing, rinse the board thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.

• Pat the board dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture. Standing water can damage wooden boards over time. Specifically, the water will eventually make the wood split, which is much more difficult to remediate than simply conditioning the board with more mineral oil (see below).

4. Sanitize if necessary:

• If you're concerned about bacteria or odors, you can sanitize the board after washing. One effective method is to mix a solution of one-part white vinegar to five parts water, then wipe the board with this mixture. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and pat dry. Or even better, buy a nice lemon or lime, cut it in half, and wipe the surface of the board down with that regularly (fresh fruit each time). Some people choose to use the other fruit halves for cocktails while they work. I do not judge.

• For wooden boards, you can also occasionally rub the surface with food-safe mineral oil to maintain its integrity and prevent it from drying out or cracking. The more you do this, the longer the board will look amazing.

5. Store properly:

• Store your charcuterie board in a dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid exposing it to extreme heat, cold, or direct sunlight, as these can cause warping or discoloration. Store it in a drawer or on a shelf, in the shade in your kitchen, or hang it on the wall as a showpiece.

6. (For charcuterie boards) Avoid cutting directly on the board:

• To prevent deep cuts and scratches, use a separate cutting board or plate for slicing and chopping ingredients. Charcuterie boards are primarily for arranging and serving, not for heavy-duty cutting. For cutting boards, cut away! They’re meant to be used, and the scars alert people that you are in full control of your kitchen.

7. Regular inspection:

• Periodically inspect your charcuterie board for signs of wear, cracks, or damage. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to extend the board's lifespan. Also, you can call or email me, and I will try to help.

By following these care and cleaning tips, you can ensure that your charcuterie board remains in good condition and continues to be a beautiful and functional addition to your entertainment repertoire. Enjoy!