In most cases, all your Of Maine Wood board will need after use is to be wiped clean with a damp cloth. If washing is needed, hold the board under the tap and wipe clean with a cloth or sponge using a gentle dishwashing soap and then dry thoroughly. Do not leave the board soaking in water at any time. It will cause the board to warp and bend.
Wooden cutting and service boards will be damaged if put in the dishwasher. The prolonged exposure to heat and water will cause the boards to dry and warp. The best care for your boards is to hand wash only.
When you first purchase your Of Maine Wood board, it will come treated with a beeswax and mineral oil finish. To help treat the wood and keep your board well conditioned, apply a wood oil or even a kitchen oil to your board after the first use and once a week for the first few weeks. After that, apply as needed. Before oiling your board, clean your board with water and a gentle dishwashing soap, dry thoroughly, and then apply the oil.
Once you have cleaned and dried your board, store it on its side away from direct sunlight. The same applies to benches and tables. Exposure to direct sunlight will cause the board's natural color to bleach and if the board is not entirely dry, may cause it to bend.
Made from a single piece of wood to highlight the beauty of the figure and grain, and finished with beeswax and mineral oil, we design each board for two uses: The "front" for serving and the "back" for cutting. While both sides are beautiful, we have chosen one side to be the back and stamped it with the Of Maine Wood symbol. We suggest using this side for cutting to leave the front unmarked for service -- but it is up to you!