How to Resurface Cutting Board: Simple Steps to Revive?

By Avi Green October 10, 2023

There comes a time in every kitchen professional's life when they need to ask themselves, 'how to resurface cutting board?' With regular use, cutting boards, whether wood or plastic, can easily develop scratches, grooves, and stains that start to harbor bacteria. Resurfacing your cutting board not only makes it safer to use but also ensures it looks fresh and new. This guide will walk you through the entire process and help you maintain one of your essential kitchen tools.

Cutting boards are indispensable for food preparation in any establishment. They come in various materials like wood, bamboo, glass, and plastic, each bringing its unique advantages and challenges. In this article, we'll focus on wooden cutting boards, primarily because they require specific maintenance compared to their plastic counterparts.

Why Resurface Your Cutting Board?

Understanding why repair is essential is crucial for kitchen professionals. Here are a few reasons:

**Safety:** Scratches and deep grooves act as homes for bacteria, risking cross-contamination.
**Aesthetics:** A well-maintained cutting board is visually appealing, contributing to the overall atmosphere of your kitchen.
**Longevity:** Regular maintenance can extend the life of your investment.

Signs Your Cutting Board Needs Resurfacing

It might be challenging to determine whether your cutting board needs some TLC, but here are signs to watch for:

Visible scratches: If your board has several scratches or deep grooves, its time to resurface.
Staining: Stains that dont come off during cleaning can harbor food particles and germs.
Warping: If the cutting board is warped, it may not lay flat, making it unsafe to use.

Tools and Supplies Needed

To get started on resurfacing your cutting board, you'll need a few tools and supplies:

Sandpaper: Use coarse, medium, and fine grit (80, 150, and 220 grit).
Wood food-safe mineral oil or wax: This will hydrate and protect the wood.
Cloth or paper towels: For cleanup and application of oil.
Putty knife: Optional, but useful for scraping stubborn residue.

How to Resurface Your Cutting Board

Now that you've gathered your tools, let's dive into the step-by-step process.

Step 1: Clean the Cutting Board

First, you want to ensure that your board is clean. Rinse it with hot water and scrub with dish soap to remove any food particles. This step is essential for a proper resurface since debris may interfere with the sanding process. For a detailed guide on maintaining proper hygiene, visit cutting board cleaning.

Step 2: Sanding the Surface

Once dry, begin sanding using the coarse grit sandpaper. Move in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damaging it further. The aim is to remove scratches and uneven surfaces. You can use a power sander or do it by hand for better control.

After sanding with coarse grit, switch to medium grit and then finally fine grit. This progression helps to create a smooth surface. Wipe down your board with a damp cloth regularly to remove sawdust as you go along.

Step 3: Cleaning Again

After sanding, thoroughly rinse the board with water and let it air dry. Its crucial to remove any remaining dust or particles before finishing.

Step 4: Oiling the Board

With the board dry, its time to apply the mineral oil. Using a clean cloth, rub a generous amount into the cutting board, covering all surfaces. Allow it to absorb for at least 30 minutes. For an extra shine, consider applying a second coat. You'll want to do this periodically to maintain its condition.