Your East Wood Design butcher block island combines two timber surfaces, each cared for differently: an end-grain top conditioned like a chopping board, and a base and shelving finished with Osmo Poly Wax Oil. Follow the guide below for each part to keep your island looking and performing its best for years to come.
The Top (End-Grain, Oil-Conditioned)
Your end-grain top is treated just like a chopping board and is safe to use as a food prep and cutting surface.
After every use
- Wipe down with warm water and a mild dish soap, then dry immediately with a towel.
What to avoid
- Never let water pool or sit on the surface — wipe up spills promptly.
- Avoid placing hot pots or pans directly on the top.
- Keep out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources where possible.
Keeping it nourished
- The top was initially soaked with mineral oil, then finished with our beeswax and mineral oil conditioner.
- To keep it nourished, apply the beeswax/mineral oil conditioner every 2–4 weeks for the first few months, then every 1–2 months once settled in — more often if the surface looks dry or pale.
- Apply generously with a clean cloth, work it into the grain, leave to soak in for a few hours (or overnight), then wipe off any excess. Condition the underside and edges of the top as well as the top surface, not just where you prep food.
- Stick to a proper food-safe mineral oil or beeswax conditioner — avoid cooking oils like olive or vegetable oil, as these can turn rancid.
- Small knife marks, scratches, and colour changes over time are normal character for a well-used end-grain top. A light sand (320+ grit) followed by re-oiling will refresh a worn patch.
The Base and Shelves (Osmo Poly Wax Oil)
Everyday care
- Dust regularly with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth.
- Wipe up spills promptly.
- For general cleaning, use a well-wrung cloth with warm water — avoid soaking the surface.
What to avoid
- Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, ammonia-based products, and abrasive scourers.
- Avoid silicone-based sprays and polishes, as these can interfere with future maintenance coats.
- Avoid placing the base in direct, prolonged sunlight.
Maintaining the finish
- Every 12–18 months, refresh the base and shelves with a thin coat of Osmo Poly-x Oil or Osmo Wax Maintenance product, applied with a lint-free cloth and buffed lightly once dry.
- For scratches or worn patches, a light sand (320+ grit) followed by a spot coat of Osmo oil will usually blend the repair in well.
- Always test any cleaning product or maintenance oil on a small, inconspicuous area first.
A Few Notes
- Solid timber will naturally expand and contract slightly with seasonal humidity — this is normal.
- Each island is one-of-a-kind, cut from natural timber, so grain and colour will vary piece to piece and will mellow with age.
East Wood Design Handcrafted timber, made in Mangawhai, New Zealand Instagram: @east_wood_design | eastwooddesignnz@gmail.com