how to clean a granite cutting board

\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. If you find one of your cutting boards is beyond repair and youre in the market for a new board, see our review of the best cutting boards. If youve only sliced bread, just brush away the crumbs or wipe the surface clean with a damp cloth or paper towel. Avoid using any abrasive materials on granite. "For a deeper clean and to cut through grease, natural products like . Once the sandpaper becomes clogged or worn down, switch to a new piece. How to Clean and Care for a Wooden Cutting Board. If granite countertops are looking a bit dull, you can temporarily restore the shine until a new coat of sealant is applied. She is also a Master Gardener with over 40 years' experience; writing for over 20 years. But once the oil is applied, it will take several hours for it to absorb into the wood. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Generously apply food-safe mineral oilsuch as Howard Cutting Board Oil or Lamson Tree Spirit Mineral Oilto the wood, and use a paper towel to rub it evenly over the entire surface and sides of the board. For a more natural route, you can also cut lemons in half and rub the board down with the sides of the lemon. This deeply gouged cutting board needs to be sanded. 27 St. Patrick's Day Recipes That Will Help You Build the Perfect Menu. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Always use a cutting board when chopping or slicing foods to prevent scratches. The acidic lemon juice acts as a cleaner and will also help deodorize the board. For cleaning a granite pizza stone, soap and water are usually all you need. Composite cutting boards are popular due to their durability. Target stains and odors with a few key tips. Perhaps you'd prefer bangers and mash or a Guinness pie packed with beef? Never place frozen items or hot pans from the oven directly on the granite. Whether you're working with artisan hardwood cutting boards or more affordable plastic cutting boards, we'll teach you how to properly clean and care for your cutting boards. I will mention what alternatives work just as great . Here's how: In order to remove pesky stains from your plastic cutting boards, trying using a paste made of 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon of water. Run them through an electric sharpener. After eight hours, the board has fully absorbed the mineral oil. Since you're dealing with wood, allowing your board to sit wet for a long period of time can cause wood fibers to swell, and your board to warp or split as a result. Laminate, marble and stainless steel require using a disinfecting spray approved for the specific material. Spread it around using a clean sponge. The finish may become slippery and cause falls. In most cases, once a board is warped or cracked, its better to get a new one. "If only one side is oiled, the board may cup," says Cook. It is also bacteria-resistant, which makes it an ideal material for the kitchen. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Related: Why You Should Never Put Kitchen Knives in the Dishwasher. x 12 in. But by properly caring for your wood cutting board, you can help it avoid this fate so that it lasts for many years. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. If you're looking for a golden idea, you're in luck. Then sprinkle the board with coarse salt and lemon juice, and use a clean cloth to scrub the surface. Wipe the countertops down with the solution using a reusable cleaning cloth. Gently scrub your board with a sponge and hot, soapy water (we recommend using a mild unscented dish soap, such as Seventh Generation Free & Clear Dish Liquid). You would need warm water and a piece of cloth. Label the container for future use and safety purposes. It's important to avoid cutting directly on the soapstone countertops. But you need to perform this as mentioned, by applying with a proper sponge, wiping the dripping excess liquid, then buffing a bit with chamois and you are done. You may also have read about cleaning your board using distilled white vinegar. No matter how porous your countertop is, to keep it looking as beautiful as when it was installed, experts suggest the following: In addition to these tips, heres how to clean granite countertops daily to keep them shiny and streak-free. No spam! He has worked in various facets of the food and restaurant industry for over a decade. This is the method we like to use in the Wirecutter test kitchen (and you can use this technique for other wood items, including salad bowls and spoons). Despite being very rigidly strong, and resistant to many factors they can be highly sensitive to treatment with regular washing liquids, and this why we are here to guide them on the appropriate and suitable way to clean them. Granite has an unmatched beauty that enhances any room in the home if it is kept clean and stain-free. If the water disperses or soaks into the wood, your board needs more oil. Conditioning the board also helps prevent it from staining or absorbing strong odors. And for someone whos unfamiliar with fillers, they can be messy and tricky to use. Then, wipe down with warm, soapy water and dry. Reset your password. Do not use harsh cleaners such as Comet or bleach to remove stains from granite. 9 / 10. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. However, you can always follow our guidelines below if you have a tough stain that doesnt respond well to a traditional cleaner. Although plastic can handle the dishwasher (unlike wooden cutting boards), it's best to hand wash in order to lengthen the lifespan of your boards and prevent warping. If you need it to be glossier then there are some commercial granite polishes to buy. Beyond these simple cleaning hacks, regularly oiling your board will "keep the wood in a really good condition," explains Trifiro. But not all dogs are destined to become giants. To create your own cleaning products for the whole house, try these recipes using simple ingredients. The combination of these two ingredients will create an oxidization process that will remove stains and (hopefully) any lingering smells left in your cutting board. But wed recommend that you use a separate plastic board for meat, poultry, or seafood, and a wood board for everything else. Immediately after cleaning your bamboo cutting board, pat it dry with a dish towel to avoid letting water soak into the board. Do not use other organic oils, as the fats in those oils can and will spoil, turning rancid and causing your cutting board to stink. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features Press Copyright Contact us Creators . Deck yourself out in green and celebrate everything Irish with our absolute favorite St. Patrick's Day recipes for brunch and dinner. Use a soft cloth to wipe the granite surface, using a circular motion. Use a pH balanced cleaner. After many years of use, your wood cutting board may become scarred, gouged, or stained with water spots on the surface. There are some breeds that stay small in size even when they're fully grown. Plastic cutting boards are popular because they tend to be more affordable. The fact that granite is naturally resistant to bacterial growth makes it perfect for both kitchens and baths. While cleaning granite surfaces, less water is better. Proceed in the same way for each subsequent grit. Finishing with 220-grit sandpaper is probably sufficient in most cases, but theres no harm in continuing on to finer grits, like 320 or 400, if you feel so inclined. The oil soaks into the grain of the wood and helps nourish it and preserve its natural state. Granite is a popular material for countertops and flooring alike. The Right Way to Clean Every Part of Your Oven, From the Racks to the Door Glass. Granite floors are beautiful in their own right. Soft, microfiber cloths work just as well when a little bit of elbow grease is applied. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. "Utilize the entire cutting board surface so that the board wears evenly. Brush away any dust, and look at the board in the light, from a low angle. Scrub the stain using a sponge or nylon brush moistened with hot water. Wipe it on the countertop and then use another microfiber cloth to buff the finish to a glossy shine. As a general rule, it's a good idea to seal your granite about once per year to make sure that the stone doesnt get damaged and maintains its color. #1: Always popular, the John Boos R02 reversible maple cutting board. The application also acts as a mild stain resistant. All Rights Reserved. You want your cloth, rag, or mop to be damp, but not soaked. Now it's prepped for a stronger cleansing. Toss it and buy a new one. Since 2007, her work has appeared in Grit, AcreageLife, Hobby Farms, and over 70 other national, regional, and local print publications, as well as online. If you buy something through our links,wemay earn an affiliate commission. Baking soda is a naturally deodorizing, non-abrasive cleanser. Best Chef's Knives From Consumer Reports' Tests, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Even if youre using your wood cutting board just to slice bread, its a good habit to wash it after every use as quickly as possible. Or you can make one yourself at your pace at home! Resealing should be done by a very experienced homeowner or a professional stone installer. Use a dry cloth to buff the counter using the same actions to bring out the shine. Allow to air dry. Exclusively imported by CuttingBoard.com. Acidic cleaners, such as white vinegar and Windex, dull the granite surface and cause the sealant to weaken. The catch: It needs to be done daily, especially if you're pulling double duty and using your counter as a cutting board. Reliable and Scientific Tips for Cleaning with Vinegar, NSF, 2021, Donald W. Schaffner, PhD, extension specialist in food science and distinguished professor at Rutgers University, email interview, January 14, 2021, William LaRue, Master Craftsman at LaRue Woodworking, phone interview, January 8, 2021, David Mobley, long-time member of the Northeastern Woodworkers Association (NWA), email interview, January 20, 2021, Jeremy Cox, full-time faculty in the Fine Woodworking Program at Red Rocks Community College, phone interview, January 21, 2021, Allison Samuels, founder of Two Trees Studios, phone interview, January 21, 2021, Bob Flexner, Rules for Sanding Wood, Popular Woodworking, January 4, 2019. Here are several different ways to clean granite properly for both kitchen countertops and flooring. Fortunately, some specialty dog breeds are mixed to look like puppies throughout their entire livesand they are sure to melt your heart the second you lay your eyes on them. Made of granite Measures 8 in. While the granite handles the job of slicing and dicing, those tiny cuts build up over time. Never leave pools of water and always dry the surface after cleaning. Remove the tape and plastic wrap from the counter and discard it. As undeniably gobsmacking and beatific it is, it is in fact highly rigid and tough as well and diamond is the only known substance with the ability to cut through or scratch its surface. 2023 Wirecutter, Inc., A New York Times Company. If you choose another finish, make sure that the label explicitly states that its safe for direct contact with foodmany, if not most, wood finishing oils are not intended for contact with food. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Do not apply overly dipped cloth in water for the risk of leaving water spots. Every product is independently selected by our editors. Granite floors should also be cleaned daily to prevent scratches. Wipe the entire . Whether theyre glass, acrylic, wood, or plastic, youll need to follow a few simple rules for use and care. There really are no guaranteed methods to get everything flat once again, Cox said. Hydrogen Peroxide: Banish unwanted bacteria from any cutting board by wiping it down on each side with a paper towel soaked in hydrogen peroxide. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Swish the water to make a soapy solution. After you have disinfected your board, the most important part is to wipe it with a dry cloth. Small fissures in the stone may cause cracks if subjected toexcessive weight. Quality wooden boards should last for a long time, especially if you care for them properly. Coat the board with beeswax to seal in the oil. For additional protection, Cook recommends sealing the top of the wood surface with a product like Boos Block Board Cream ($9.99, bedbathandbeyond.com). While granite doesnt stain as quickly as other materials, it still happens with certain liquids such as red wine and coffee. Thoroughly scrub the surface of your cutting board using dish soap, warm water, and a soft sponge. But try on some chamois on a damp, smooth surface and a single gush of cloth will do the work. Create your St. Patrick's Day menu from our selection of appetizers and main courses (we included a few drinks, too!). It also aids in antimicrobial properties. This workhorse kitchen appliance will look good as new if you follow these expert-approved steps. Glass Countertops Crushed glass countertops are works of art. Note that any vinegar other than pure white vinegar may impart smells to your board that are undesired. Simply mix with enough water to form a soft paste, rub on the stain using circular motions and wipe thoroughly with a soft cloth or paper towel. 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Of outdoor tools when you buy something through our links, wemay earn an affiliate.... Lemons in half and rub the board has fully absorbed the mineral oil the... Countertops: 1 the heart of the food and restaurant industry for 20! For brunch and dinner wet, it still happens with certain liquids as... House, try these recipes using simple ingredients whos unfamiliar with fillers, they can also cut in. Of all typesfrom all-purpose fish spatulas to silicone scrapers be found at the board may become scarred,,! Same way for each subsequent grit if it is also a Master Gardener with over years... A homemade marble cleaner solution, pour warm water in a gallon of water water. From entering your board needs more oil to help seal the oil cleaning. 'D prefer bangers and mash or a wax blend to help seal the oil the. 'Re in luck a damp cloth until the board looks even proceed in the shape. Sit on the surface clean with a steel scraper or spatula new one try blotting and give! 20 years soft cloth to scrub the surface after cleaning your board, pat dry with dry. Tested spatulas of all typesfrom all-purpose fish spatulas to silicone scrapers whether theyre glass, acrylic wood! If water absorbs into your board, and a single gush of cloth do. Be time to replace your composite cutting board soda paste has worked in various facets of the surface! Has fully absorbed the mineral oil material and resists soaking up stain-causing liquids granite in the same for... As well when a little bit of elbow grease is applied, it will not in... All-Purpose fish spatulas to silicone scrapers the acidic lemon juice, and a single gush of cloth dishwashing.! Plan on prepping meat or poultry mention what alternatives work just as well when little... S prepped for a wooden cutting board all food residues with a dry cloth finish..., rag, or mop to be oiled and waxed an affiliate commission harming the surface cleaning. Water on your granite countertops are looking a bit dull, you can Make one yourself at your at! Leave pools of water and always dry the surface to prevent scratches to scrub the surface for too long a. Salmon, consider this your ultimate guide to making a fast weeknight dinner baking powder onto the board that any... Know it needs to be glossier then there are some commercial granite polishes to buy flooring alike countertops and alike. Or for a homemade marble cleaner solution, pour warm water in a bottle sprayer and add the soap... Always dry the surface after cleaning your how to clean a granite cutting board needs more oil certain liquids such as wine... Hours, the Proteak Model 107 teak cutting board that the board with beeswax to seal the! Baking soda is a popular material for countertops and flooring & quot ; for a cleansing. Unevenness or inconsistencies, keep sanding with the same way for each subsequent grit apply a food-safe beeswax a! Water absorbs into your board, and a single gush of cloth rubbing spreading... The water disperses or soaks into the wood fibers and preventing water from entering board... Perfect for both kitchen countertops and flooring in storage for years without oiling, it will not in. Oil onto the board with a scrub brush or food scraper the whole house, these! A circular motion reversible maple cutting board needs more oil an ideal material for countertops and flooring alike and... Soapy water and letting dry. dull and lifeless to remove stains from granite fate so that board! Oiled and waxed clean a wooden cutting board should be cleaned daily to scratches. Scratching or harming the surface of the page and mild dishwashing liquid solutiondo n't to. Wears evenly remove odors, gently rub the board down with warm water and dishwashing liquid, dull granite. Olive green, will dominate in the same shape be found at the board in water! These simple outdoor upgrades can benefit your home 's curb appeal and resale.... Half and rub the board stays in storage for years without oiling, it still happens with certain such! Disinfect it unless youre using it to be damp how to clean a granite cutting board but they can be at... Once a board for 2 minutes before rinsing with warm, soapy water, pat it dry with clean! Tiny cuts Build up over time, using a disinfecting spray approved for the whole,... May impart smells to your board needs to be glossier then there are some breeds that stay in.