Your East Wood Design board is handcrafted from solid timber and finished with a food-safe beeswax and mineral oil blend. With a little regular care, it will last for generations.
After Every Use
- Hand wash with warm water and a mild dish soap.
- Dry immediately with a towel and stand the board on its edge to air dry fully before storing.
What to Avoid
- Never put your board in the dishwasher — the heat and prolonged moisture will cause it to warp, crack, or split.
- Never soak your board in water or leave it sitting in a wet sink.
- Avoid leaving your board in direct sunlight or near heat sources (ovens, heaters, windowsills), as this can cause the wood to dry out and crack.
- Avoid cutting very hot items directly on the board.
Regular Oiling
Timber is a natural material that needs to stay conditioned to prevent drying, cracking, and warping.
- Oil your board every 2–4 weeks for the first few months, then every 1–2 months once it settles in — more often if you notice the wood looking dry or pale.
- Apply a food-safe mineral oil (or a beeswax/mineral oil conditioning blend) generously with a clean cloth, working it into the grain.
- Leave it to soak in for at least a few hours, or overnight, then wipe off any excess with a clean cloth.
- Avoid vegetable, olive, or other cooking oils — these can turn rancid over time. Use a proper food-safe mineral oil or board conditioner.
Cleaning Stains and Odours
- For stubborn stains or odours, sprinkle coarse salt over the surface, scrub with half a lemon, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
- Baking soda paste (baking soda + a small amount of water) can also help lift stains — scrub gently, rinse, and dry.
A Few Notes
- Small surface marks, knife scratches, and colour changes over time are part of the natural character of a solid timber board — they don't affect its function.
- If your board develops a rough patch, a light sand with fine sandpaper (320+ grit), followed by re-oiling, will bring it back to life.
- Each board is one-of-a-kind, cut from natural timber, so grain and colour will vary piece to piece.
East Wood Design Handcrafted timber, made in Mangawhai, New Zealand Instagram: @east_wood_design | eastwooddesignnz@gmail.com