Step 1: Clean your board. As always, after using your board, scrub it with hot, soapy water then rinse and dry. Do not submerge the board in water and do not soak in water. For stain removal, use coarse salt and a half of lemon to scrub the board. Let the lemon and salt mixture sit for about five minutes. Then wipe clean, rinse the board and dry. Not only will this remove stains but it will deodorize and remove any strong odors.

In addition to cleaning your board, it is important to oil and condition your board monthly. It may be tempting to extend time between oil and conditioning but it is important to keep this step. The longer you wait between oiling and conditioning your board, the more likely the board will crack and become damaged.

Step 2: Oil Your Board. To oil, liberally apply the cutting board oil using a cloth or paper towel, spread it over the entire board. Let this soak in overnight or at least a few hours.

You will see how  dry your board is as the oil soaks in. Repeat this step a few times until the board retains its shine and the absorption rate slows. Excess oil can be wiped off with a dry cloth or paper towel.

Step 3: Condition Your Board. In addition to oiling, you should use a conditioner that includes an element of wax to seal the board from moisture. The sealing step will help to extend the life of your board by ensuring excess water is not absorbed.

Some are tempted to only oil and skip conditioning or vice versa. Both steps are important. First you need to oil your board to make sure it stays moisturized and it does not dry and crack. Secondly, the conditioner seals in the moisture. It will protect the board as you use it and wash it daily. 

Once that board is oiled and conditioned it will look like new again. It will be ready to use and be that beautiful statement piece in your kitchen that you love and once again makes you proud.

Check out The real Milk paint company for cutting board products!