The One Mistake Almost Every Wood Board Owner Makes... And How to Avoid It
~ Caring For Your Handmade Board ~
You didn’t just buy a piece of wood. You invested in a piece of craftsmanship... a functional work of art designed to bring joy to your home for years to come. Whether it’s a cutting board for your kitchen or a cribbage board for your game nights, it was built to last.
But here’s the mistake nearly everyone makes...
They treat it like a disposable item. They forget that wood is a natural material that responds to its environment.
As the craftsmen who build these pieces, we want to let you in on a simple secret: a little bit of care goes a long way. Protecting your investment is easy, and it ensures your board will become a cherished heirloom, not a forgotten object in a closet.
For the Kitchen Artisan: Caring for Your Cutting & Serving Board
Not all kitchen boards are used the same way, so their care shouldn't be either. Whether your board is a daily workhorse for chopping or a beautiful centerpiece for serving, here’s how to keep it looking its best.
Path 1: For Cutting & Prep Boards (The Workhorse)
If you use your board for daily chopping and preparing raw ingredients, its durability and sanitation are top priorities.
Is it Safe for Meat? Absolutely. A well-maintained wood board is safer than plastic. Wood's natural fibers pull bacteria away from the surface and eliminate 99% of them quickly, while plastic boards develop knife grooves that trap germs. Trust the timber.
Cleaning: With a spatula, scrape off the top of the boards. Then hand wash with mild soap and warm water. Never put it in the dishwasher or let it soak. It's ok to dunk it in the water and then scrub it, but don't let it sit under water and make sure to dry it very well right away and then let it air dry on its side for airflow.
Optional Deep Cleaning: Because wood is naturally antimicrobial, you do not need to disinfect it after every use with raw meat. Proper washing is sufficient. However, if you want to perform an occasional deep clean for peace of mind, or if a board accidentally sat for a while before you could wash it, you can use this disinfecting solution.
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Create a diluted solution of one teaspoon of bleach in one quart of water. People very often put way too much bleach in the solution. You need a small amount of bleach to go a long way; using more is not better or more effective. Wipe the board, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly with clean water and towel dry.
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Warning: This process is effective but can be harsh on the wood if done too often. Use it sparingly.
Drying: Dry your board with a towel and then stand it on its side and allow it to fully dry before putting away. Storing your board while still damp is the primary reason boards warp.
Use Both Sides: Chop on one side, serve on the other. Our boards are built tough for kitchen prep and beautiful for showing off as a charcuterie board. Why not get the best of both worlds?
Essential Conditioning: Your board needs regular care in two ways:
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Before Use Protection: Apply a light coat of our Roots To Table Board Butter before preparing foods that might stain (like berries). This creates a protective barrier that prevents stains from penetrating the wood. It also brings out the beauty of your board and will get your guests saying wow!
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Monthly Deep Conditioning: At least once a month, and after any deep clean, give your board a thorough conditioning treatment. Apply a food-safe mineral oil or Roots To Table Board Butter. If time permits, let it soak in for 4 hours, then wipe off the excess. If that's not realistic, allow it to sit for as long as possible before wiping it off.
This prevents cracking and keeps your workhorse ready for action.
Path 2: For Serving & Presentation Boards (The Showpiece)
If your board is primarily for serving cheese, bread, and charcuterie, your focus is on preserving its beauty.
Gentle Cleaning: A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is often enough. If there is stuck on food, make sure to scrape it off and then wash with warm water and mild soap.
Drying: Towel dry the board and then lean it against something to allow it to fully dry before storing. Improper drying is the main reason for warping.
Sanitation: Since you're not typically preparing raw meat on a serving board, the intense disinfecting step isn't necessary. Proper, gentle washing is all the sanitation you need.
Preserving the Beauty: Conditioning is still key to preventing your board from looking dry or faded. While it may not need it as often as a heavily used cutting board, a monthly application of Roots To Table Board Butter will maintain its rich color and beautiful sheen.
For the Game Night Host: Caring for Your Roots To Table Cribbage Board
Your cribbage board is built for fun and friendly competition. Care is simple and focused on protecting its finish and feel.
Keeping It Pristine: Instead of a mineral oil bath like our other boards get, our crib boards are finished with Tung oil. THis means that they relly only need a quick wipe with a dry clean cloth. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners or furniture polish.
The Optional Touch of Class: Your cribbage board does not need oiling, but an occasional buff with Roots To Table Board Butter will enrich the wood's color and give it a silky-smooth feel, restoring that "fresh from the workshop" glow.
Check Out Our Handmade Boards That Come With A LifeTime Guarantee!
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Personalized Cheese Slicer with Wire Cutter, Cheese Cutting Board, in Maple or Walnut
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THE NESTLING TIMBERS: Personalized Hand Crafted Maple & Walnut Accent Charcuterie Boards
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Let customers speak for us
Stephanie McLeod
Spectacular quality
Received my board today and it’s beautiful. From the packaging that is filled with warmth when you open the box to the out standing workmanship. The quality of the board is exceptional, even to the personalized engraving. You can feel the creativity, love and heart and soul that Charlene and Jason put into their designs and the passion for what they create.
The DAILY BLOCK: 12x8 Edge Grain Maple Cutting Board
MONICA R.
Gorgeous and Fast!!!
This board is INCREDIBLE! Charlene handpicked the boards for the wood color and grain that I liked. I was able to select the boards that I liked, along with designs and engravings for the front and back of each board. She sent me pictures of the designs and fonts for approval. I ended up buying 4 boards. I know I will definitely buy from them again. Thank you for such great quality products and fast service!!!
Black Walnut Live Edge Charcuterie Boards - Heartwood
Jessie kahtava
Beautiful cribbage board
I am thoroughly impressed with my customized cribbage board, which arrived today and far exceeded my expectations. It not only arrived ahead of the anticipated delivery date, but it was also securely packaged, ensuring no damage. Upon unboxing, I was pleased to see the care and attention given to the packaging. The board itself is made from exquisite, solid wood and is even more beautiful than described. The meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail truly make this cribbage board a standout piece. I look forward to many enjoyable years of use. Additionally, I was delighted to learn that a tree was planted with my purchase, adding an admirable eco-friendly touch.
Personalized Cribbage Board, Maple or Black Walnut Crib Boards with Live Edge Design, Rustic Game Board with Peg Storage, Custom Engraved Gifts, Fun Family Game
Kyle Taylor
Great Product & Awesome Communication
Jason was very thorough and went above and beyond to ensure my order was completed based on a tight deadline. The crib boards are top notch quality craftsmanship!!!
Handmade Unique Personalized Cribbage Board
Sally
Simply beautiful!
This board is stunning and arrived beautifully packaged. The love for their craft is so obvious in the quality of the board and how it was presented. This is a gift for some dear friends, and we couldn’t be prouder to be giving it to them. A heartfelt thanks to Jason and Charlene, not just for your talent but for your willingness to share it with others.
Black Walnut Live Edge Charcuterie Boards - Heartwood
Johanna
Great transaction, artisans did everything to make things right. Love the boards which were gift packed for giving!
Roots To Table
C Grexton
A Stunning and Functional Prep Board!
This board is an absolute showstopper! The combination of maple and walnut accents gives it a rustic yet refined look that stands out in my kitchen. It’s not just about aesthetics, though—the craftsmanship is top-tier, and you can feel the quality in every detail.
The size is perfect for daily meal prep, whether I’m chopping veggies, slicing bread, or serving a small charcuterie spread. It has just the right weight—sturdy but easy to handle—and the finish is incredibly smooth.
I also love how durable and gentle on knives it is. It doesn’t show excessive wear like cheaper boards, and the wood grain adds such a unique touch. If you're looking for a premium prep board that’s both practical and beautiful, this one is a must-have!
The Horizon: Maple and Walnut Accented Rustic Prep Board
Emily R
The Perfect Everyday Cutting Board!
I absolutely love this cutting board! The 12x8 size is ideal for daily meal prep—big enough to chop veggies and slice meats comfortably, but compact enough to store easily.
The DAILY BLOCK: 12x8 Edge Grain Maple & Walnut Accented Cutting Board
Emily R
Perfect for Everyday Use!
I’ve been using The Daily Block for a while now, and it’s hands down the best cutting board I’ve owned. The craftsmanship is outstanding—smooth finish, durable build, and just the right size for daily prep work. You can tell it’s made with care and high-quality wood.
The DAILY BLOCK: 12x8 Edge Grain Maple Cutting Board
Emily R
I absolutely love this Black Walnut Round Charcuterie Board!
I absolutely love this Black Walnut Round Charcuterie Board! The craftsmanship is stunning, and the rich walnut grain makes it a beautiful centerpiece for entertaining. It’s the perfect size for serving an elegant spread of cheeses, meats, and fruits. The handle makes it easy to carry and adds a unique touch. You can tell this was made with care, and the quality is outstanding. Highly recommend for anyone who loves hosting or giving a thoughtful, high-end gift!
The Black Walnut Round 12x12 Edge Grain Cutting Board
Maureen Zurby
Beautiful Craftsmanship & Perfect Gift!
I recently purchased the Personalized Wood Bread Board from Roots To Table, and I couldn’t be happier! The combination of maple and walnut gives it a stunning contrast, and the craftsmanship is top-notch. You can tell this board was made with care—the wood is smooth, well-finished, and has a nice weight to it.
The engraving turned out beautifully, adding a personal touch that made it an amazing gift. Whether for serving bread, charcuterie, or just as a decorative piece in the kitchen, this board is perfect. It’s durable, elegant, and truly unique.
Highly recommend it for anyone looking for a high-quality, handcrafted board. Will definitely be ordering more!
Bread Board: Personalized Bread and Butter Cutting & Serving Board Black Walnut & Maple
Julia Donaldson
Absolutely gorgeous! Such a beautiful piece.
Very impressed with the board, it was even more beautiful then i expected. Very happy!
Personalized Live Edge Charcuterie Board, Black Walnut Rustic Cheese Boards, Custom Engraved Wood Serving Tray Wedding & Housewarming Gift
Sarah Ferguson
Love love love these boards!
I bought four for my ladies night and everyone loved the boards. Was worried they wouldnt get here in time but the shipping was faster then expected.
Small Wine Appetizer Plates Set of 4, Personalized Appetizer Trays, Cocktail Plate, Handheld Appetizer Board, Small Plates for Gifts, Walnut
Chels
Great Customer Service & Beautiful Engraving
I love my new custom crib board! The engraving turned out perfect, and the walnut wood is stunning. Customer service was super friendly and helpful. Highly recommend!
Handmade Unique Personalized Cribbage Board
Chels
Great Customer Service & Beautiful Engraving
I love my new custom crib board! The engraving turned out perfect, and the walnut wood is stunning. Customer service was super friendly and helpful. Highly recommend!
Personalized Cribbage Board, Maple or Black Walnut Crib Boards with Live Edge Design, Rustic Game Board with Peg Storage, Custom Engraved Gifts, Fun Family Game
