Top 7 Best Butcher Block Oil 2024
By Editorial | September 11, 2024
Butcher blocks **shine** in kitchens thanks to their strength, versatility, and good looks. Keeping them in top shape means **regular oiling**. Butcher block oil, made just for this task, soaks into the wood, protecting it from water and stopping it from drying out.
When it comes to choosing the best butcher block oil, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you want to make sure that the oil is food-safe and doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals. Additionally, you’ll want to consider the type of wood your butcher block is made of, as different woods may require different types of oil. For example, walnut and cherry woods are less porous than maple or oak, so they may require less oil.
Another critical factor to consider is the oil’s viscosity, or thickness. A thicker oil will provide better protection against moisture, but it may take longer to dry and may feel sticky or tacky to the touch. On the other hand, a thinner oil will dry faster and may feel smoother, but it may not provide as much protection against moisture.
After researching and testing various butcher block oils, we’ve compiled a list of the best options on the market. Whether you’re looking for a food-safe oil that’s easy to apply, a thicker oil that provides maximum protection, or a natural oil that enhances the wood’s natural beauty, we’ve got you covered. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at each of our top picks and what makes them stand out.
Best Butcher Block Oils
As avid home cooks and kitchen enthusiasts, we know the importance of maintaining our kitchen tools and equipment. One essential item that every home cook should have is a quality butcher block oil to maintain their cutting boards, butcher blocks, and wooden utensils. Not only does it protect the wood from drying out and cracking, but it also helps to prevent bacteria from growing on the surface.
After researching and testing various products, we have compiled a list of the best butcher block oils on the market. These oils are not only effective in protecting and maintaining your wooden kitchen tools, but they are also safe for food contact and easy to apply. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, these oils will help you keep your kitchen tools in top shape for years to come.
Howard Products Butcher Block Conditioner
We highly recommend Howard Products Butcher Block Conditioner for anyone who wants to keep their butcher blocks and cutting boards in good condition.
Pros
- Exceeds US FDA regulations for direct and indirect contact with food
- Revitalizing blend prevents drying and cracking of hardwoods and bamboo
- Natural waxes provide another level of protection
Cons
- Takes a few hours to soak in properly
- May need to be reapplied more frequently than other products
- Some users find it too oily
We have used this conditioner on our wooden cutting boards and salad bowls, and it has done an excellent job of keeping them functional and beautiful. The natural waxes provide an additional layer of protection, and the revitalizing blend helps prevent drying and cracking. We appreciate that it exceeds US FDA regulations for direct and indirect contact with food, so we can use it with confidence.
One of the downsides of this conditioner is that it takes a few hours to soak in properly, so you’ll need to plan ahead before using your cutting board again. Additionally, some users may find it too oily, so it’s important to apply it sparingly. Finally, it may need to be reapplied more frequently than other products, depending on how often you use your cutting board.
Overall, we highly recommend Howard Products Butcher Block Conditioner for anyone looking to keep their butcher blocks and cutting boards in top condition. It’s easy to apply, food-grade safe, and provides excellent protection for your wooden kitchen tools.
HOWARD Butcher Block Conditioner and Cutting Board Oil
If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to maintain your butcher blocks, cutting boards, and wooden utensils, then the HOWARD Butcher Block Conditioner and Cutting Board Oil is an excellent choice.
Pros
- REVITALIZING FORMULA BLEND helps prevent drying and cracking of hardwoods and bamboo, making it perfect for use in both home and restaurant kitchens.
- Howard Butcher Block Oils are TASTELESS AND ODORLESS, allowing the Vitamin E cutting boards to absorb oils and protect the lifespan of the wood.
- HOWARD’S BUTCHER BLOCK CONDITIONER IS THE SAFEST butcher block conditioner on the market, meeting USFDA regulations for direct and indirect contact with food.
Cons
- The 12 oz. size may not be enough for larger cutting boards or butcher blocks.
- Some users may prefer a scented oil or conditioner.
- The product may take longer to dry than other oils or conditioners.
The REVITALIZING FORMULA BLEND in the HOWARD Butcher Block Conditioner and Cutting Board Oil helps prevent drying and cracking of hardwoods and bamboo, making it an ideal choice for both home and restaurant kitchens. The product is tasteless and odorless, allowing the Vitamin E cutting boards to absorb oils and protect the lifespan of the wood. Additionally, HOWARD’S BUTCHER BLOCK CONDITIONER IS THE SAFEST on the market, meeting USFDA regulations for direct and indirect contact with food.
One potential downside of this product is that the 12 oz. size may not be enough for larger cutting boards or butcher blocks. Some users may also prefer a scented oil or conditioner. Lastly, the product may take longer to dry than other oils or conditioners.
Overall, the HOWARD Butcher Block Conditioner and Cutting Board Oil is a great choice for those looking for a safe and effective way to maintain their wooden kitchen tools.
Thirteen Chefs Mineral Oil – 12oz Food Grade Conditioner for Wood Cutting Board, Countertop & Butcher Block, Lubricant for Knife or Meat Grinder – Safe USP Finish on Marble, Soapstone 12 Fl Oz
Thirteen Chefs Mineral Oil is a safe and effective way to protect and restore your wood cutting board, countertop, or butcher block. We highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a food-grade mineral oil that is easy to apply and long-lasting.
Pros
- The mineral oil is lab-tested to meet food safety standards, making it safe to use on surfaces that come into contact with food.
- The oil protects against cracking and drying, and restores your knives and kitchen appliances to their former glory.
- The push-applicator cap and squeeze-bottle design make maintenance a breeze, and a single bottle can last for years.
Cons
- The oil may take up to 4 hours to fully absorb into the wood, so plan ahead when applying it to your cutting board or butcher block.
- Some users may find the squeeze-bottle design difficult to control, resulting in excess oil being applied to the surface.
- While the oil is safe for use on a variety of surfaces, it may not be suitable for use on all types of wood.
Thirteen Chefs Mineral Oil is an excellent choice for anyone looking to protect and restore their wood cutting board, countertop, or butcher block. The easy-to-use push-applicator cap and squeeze-bottle design make maintenance a breeze, and a single bottle can last for years. We highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a safe and effective way to protect their kitchen surfaces.
CLARK’S Cutting Board Oil and Wax Kit
We highly recommend the CLARK’S Cutting Board Oil and Wax Kit for those looking to purchase the best butcher block oil.
Pros
- The oil penetrates wood deeply, conditioning it to prevent it from drying or cracking.
- The wax adds a protective barrier, keeping unwanted liquids from seeping into your kitchenware.
- The kit is an ideal gift concept for Thanksgiving or Christmas season.
Cons
- The product is slightly overpriced.
- The scent of the oil does not last long.
- The packaging is not sturdy enough, causing the oil to leak.
We used the CLARK’S Cutting Board Oil and Wax Kit on our butcher block countertop, and we were impressed with the results. The oil worked its way deep into the grain, rejuvenating the wood and giving it a beautiful patina. The wax added an extra layer of protection, making the countertop look like new.
The kit is easy to use, and the directions are straightforward. However, we recommend using a wax applicator sponge for a more even application. The citrus scent of the oil is delightful, but unfortunately, it does not last long.
Overall, the CLARK’S Cutting Board Oil and Wax Kit is an excellent investment for those looking to maintain their wood kitchen cutting boards and countertops. Despite the slightly higher price point, the kit’s effectiveness and ease of use make it worth the investment.
Thirteen Chefs Mineral Oil
If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to protect your wooden cutting boards, countertops, and butcher blocks, Thirteen Chefs Mineral Oil is a great option.
Pros
- The oil is food grade, lab tested, and meets food safety standards, making it safe to use on surfaces that come into contact with food.
- It protects wooden surfaces from cracking and drying, and can even restore knives and other kitchen appliances.
- The push-applicator cap and squeeze-bottle design make it easy to apply and maintain.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the oil can leave a residue on their surfaces if not wiped off properly.
- The oil has a relatively short shelf life compared to other options on the market.
- The bottle may be too large for those with smaller surfaces or those who don’t use the oil frequently.
In our experience, Thirteen Chefs Mineral Oil is a reliable and effective option for maintaining and protecting wooden surfaces in the kitchen. The oil is easy to apply and doesn’t leave any noticeable odor or taste on the surfaces.
We appreciate that the oil is food grade and lab tested, ensuring that it meets safety standards for use on food-contact surfaces. Additionally, the oil can be used on a variety of surfaces, including marble and soapstone.
However, we did notice that the oil can leave a residue if not wiped off properly. Additionally, the 128oz bottle may be too large for those with smaller surfaces or those who don’t use the oil frequently.
Overall, we recommend Thirteen Chefs Mineral Oil for those looking for a safe and effective way to protect their wooden surfaces in the kitchen.
Seal It Green Wood Master’s Secret Cutting Board Oil
Protect and condition your cutting boards and butcher blocks with the Seal It Green Wood Master’s Secret Cutting Board Oil. This food-safe sealer uses pure tung oil and plant-based ingredients to restore and protect all wood surfaces.
Pros
- Lasts for years with one application every 1-3 years
- 100% plant-based, no toxic mineral oil
- Water and stain-proof for easy maintenance
Cons
- Citrus scent may not be appealing to everyone
- May not be suitable for all types of wood surfaces
- More expensive than traditional mineral oil
We highly recommend the Seal It Green Wood Master’s Secret Cutting Board Oil for its long-lasting protection and easy maintenance. With one application every 1-3 years, this product saves you time and money compared to food-grade mineral oil that requires 8-12+ applications per year. Plus, it’s 100% plant-based and free of toxic mineral oil.
In addition, this cutting board oil is water and stain-proof, making it easy to clean and maintain. However, the citrus scent may not be appealing to everyone, and it may not be suitable for all types of wood surfaces. Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality cutting board oil that’s safe for food and the environment, the Seal It Green Wood Master’s Secret Cutting Board Oil is a great choice.
Kate Naturals Mineral Oil for Cutting Board
If you’re looking for a food-safe mineral oil to maintain your wooden cooking products, Kate Naturals Mineral Oil for Cutting Board is a great choice.
Pros
- Makes wooden cutting boards look new
- Food-grade and food-safe
- Versatile and can be used for other purposes
Cons
- May require frequent application
- Packaging may vary
- Some users may prefer a scented oil
We used Kate Naturals Mineral Oil for Cutting Board to condition our wooden cutting boards, and it worked wonders. The oil made the boards look new and restored their natural color. We also appreciated that it is food-grade and food-safe, making it perfect for kitchen use.
Aside from using it for cutting boards, we found that this mineral oil is versatile and can be used for other purposes. It can be used to protect stainless steel blades and appliances from rust, and it can also be used for soapstone countertops and rock polishing.
However, we did notice that the oil may require frequent application, especially for heavily used cutting boards. Additionally, the packaging may vary, which may be a downside for some users. Lastly, some users may prefer a scented oil, but this product is unscented.
Overall, we highly recommend Kate Naturals Mineral Oil for Cutting Board. It’s an effective and versatile product that will keep your wooden cooking products in great condition.
Buying Guide
When it comes to selecting the best butcher block oil, there are a few key features that should be considered to ensure that you are getting a high-quality product that will protect and enhance the beauty of your butcher block.
Type of Oil
There are several types of oils that can be used to treat butcher blocks, including mineral oil, walnut oil, and coconut oil. Mineral oil is the most commonly used oil due to its affordability and easy availability. However, some people prefer to use natural oils like walnut or coconut oil. Each type of oil has its own unique properties and benefits, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Food-Safe
It’s crucial to select a butcher block oil that is food-safe. This means that the oil is free from harmful chemicals and toxins that could contaminate your food. Always check the label to ensure that the oil is safe for use on surfaces that come into contact with food.
Absorption
The absorption rate of the oil is another important factor to consider. A good butcher block oil should penetrate the wood quickly and deeply to provide long-lasting protection. Oils that sit on the surface of the wood may not be as effective and can leave a sticky residue.
Application
Consider the ease of application when selecting a butcher block oil. Some oils require multiple coats and may take several hours to dry, while others can be applied in a single coat and dry quickly. Choose an oil that fits your lifestyle and schedule.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the oil. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, it’s important to invest in a high-quality oil that will protect your butcher block and extend its lifespan. Look for oils that offer a good balance between price and quality.
In summary, when selecting the best butcher block oil, consider the type of oil, food-safety, absorption, application, and price. By taking these factors into account, you’ll be able to choose an oil that will protect and enhance the beauty of your butcher block for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of using food grade mineral oil on butcher blocks?
Food grade mineral oil is a popular choice for maintaining butcher blocks because it is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. It is also non-toxic and safe for food contact. Mineral oil helps to protect the wood from moisture, which can cause warping and cracking. It also helps to prevent the growth of bacteria and other harmful microorganisms.
How does one properly apply oil to a cutting board for the first time?
Before applying oil to a cutting board for the first time, it is important to clean the board thoroughly with soap and water. Once the board is dry, apply a thin layer of oil to the surface using a clean cloth or paper towel. Be sure to cover the entire surface, including the edges and corners. Allow the oil to soak in for several hours or overnight, then wipe off any excess oil with a clean cloth.
Can linseed oil be safely used on cutting boards and butcher blocks?
While linseed oil is a popular choice for finishing wood furniture and floors, it is not recommended for use on cutting boards and butcher blocks. Linseed oil can become rancid over time, which can cause an unpleasant odor and taste. It can also attract dust and dirt, making the surface difficult to clean.
What distinguishes cutting board oil from regular mineral oil?
Cutting board oil is typically a blend of food grade mineral oil and other natural ingredients, such as beeswax or vitamin E. These ingredients help to nourish and protect the wood, while also providing a natural shine. Regular mineral oil, on the other hand, is a pure form of mineral oil that is often used for industrial purposes.
Is grapeseed oil a good option for maintaining wood cutting boards?
Grapeseed oil is a popular alternative to mineral oil for maintaining wood cutting boards. It is high in antioxidants and has a mild, nutty flavor. However, grapeseed oil can become rancid over time, which can cause an unpleasant taste and odor. It is also more expensive than mineral oil.
What are the considerations when choosing between mineral oil and polyurethane for butcher block countertops?
Mineral oil is a popular choice for maintaining butcher block countertops because it is non-toxic and safe for food contact. It is also easy to apply and reapply as needed. Polyurethane, on the other hand, provides a more durable finish that is resistant to scratches and stains. However, polyurethane is not food safe and should not be used on surfaces that come into contact with food.