Butcher block countertops are perfect for a country kitchen, French kitchen, or cottage. The warm casual appearance is perfect for that relaxed décor. And caring for your butcher block countertop could never be easier.
Woos is porous but it also cannot be sealed so bacteria from foods and meats gets absorbed. It’s great place for bacteria to grow and flourish. So maintaining your butcher block correctly is very important.
1. Use a mild dishwasher solution to wash well and then rinse and wipe dry.
2. You should wipe down regularly with a disinfectant or make up a mix of 1 part bleach with 10 parts water. Let stand on the countertop for about 10 minutes and then rinse. Allow to air dry.
3. You can use fresh lemon juice to deodorize the counter. Just let is sit on the surface for 15 minutes. Rinse and let dry.
4. Every now and then give it a good coat of oil. This stops it from becoming brittle. Mineral oil works well on surfaces that are used to prepare food. Apply, then let sit fro an hour and wipe away any extra. Then wash with warm soapy water.
Butcher block wood is so durable and attractive that it looks wonderful for as countertop. It’s also much less prone to holding bacteria than plastic or some other finishes.
Using a finish that repels water is a smart move. You might consider a water repellent finish that reduces the effect of moisture and minimizes the amount of swelling the wood experiences. Wood countertops with a finish are less likely to show stains as well.
And wood can have a wonderful choice of finishes. You can choose stains in a variety of tones to match or accent your home décor. Your finish choice will enhance your room’s appearance.
There are two types of finishes penetrating and film forming. Finishes like vanish, shellac, lacquer, form a film on the wood. This type of film protects the wood but it also will eventually crack, chip, or peel. Penetrating finishes are available in either dry oils or non-dry oils.
Dry Oils penetrate into the wood and actually harden the surface. Dry oils are products like linseed, diluted varnish, or tung. They are often called wood sealers. They reduce the amount of water absorption and make it the surface easier to clean.
Non drying oils penetrate the wood and include mineral or vegetable oil. Mineral is from petroleum that is used for food related wood items. Vegetable Oils include peanut, olive, corn, and safflower and can be applied in several layers to bring the wood grain back.
Paraffin wax is a simple method of waxing your butcher block. Just melt the wax in a double boiler and brush it on the wood surface. Scrape off excess wax.
Whatever finish you decide to use make sure that it is safe and nontoxic for food surfaces. Always check the products label.
Butcher block countertops are durable, look great, and last a lifetime. So why not give your kitchen a facelift?
