Best Wood Cutting Board 2018 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to cutting boards, there seems to be a ton of misinformation out there. Many people erroneously believe that wood cutting boards are unhygienic and that plastic cutting boards are actually the cleaner choice.

At first glance, this does indeed sound right. After all, plastic can be easily cleaned with bleach and is generally smooth while wood cutting boards cannot be bleached and often have grooves and knots.

Well, just because something sounds right doesn't necessarily mean that it's true. The myth that plastic cutting boards were somehow superior seemed a bit fishy to researchers at UC-Davis.

After extensive research, they discovered some eye-opening facts about cutting boards. While plastic cutting boards are indeed the more hygienic choice when they're brand-new, a plastic cutting board stops being the superior option once you've actually taken a knife to it.

Once cuts and grooves are etched into the plastic, it becomes extremely difficult to actually clean it to a point where it is free of harmful bacteria, such as E. coli and salmonella, found in raw meat.

However, wood seems to behave in a very different way. While bacteria can in fact slip into grooves and notches, they tend to burrow deep into the wood, thus rendering the surface safe for future use.

Furthermore, wood is an uninhabitable environment for some bacteria, which means that they'll eventually die off entirely.

Ultimately, this is one of the best reasons to choose wood cutting boards over plastic alternatives. When it comes down to it, wood cutting boards are simply the cleaner and safer choice.

The Best Wood Cutting Boards Aren't Just Tools: They're Decor and Serving Item!

While academic researchers could never scientifically prove something that's ultimately a matter of personal taste, I've found that wood cutting boards tend to be the more attractive option.

Plus, most of the chefs I've spoken to tend to agree. While plastic cutting boards generally look like a kitchen instrument and nothing more, a handsome wood cutting board can be used as both a culinary tool and a serving tray.

For example, a lovely charcuterie looks rustic yet refined when served directly on a wood cutting board. A wood cutting board can be a unique way to present artisan cheeses and raw vegetables as well.

Cleaning Your Wood Board

One of the best ways to get the most out of your wood cutting board is to keep it well-maintained. Yes, this means cleaning it with care instead of merely throwing it in a dishwasher.

While this might sound unnecessary, you'll be amazed at how the proper cleaning and conditioning can keep your cutting board looking fantastically new and attractive even after years of usage.

Since wood is a delicate material, it's not a good idea to clean your cutting board with dish detergent, which can be harsh and drying. Instead, follow this tutorial's instruction video to clean your cutting board with coarse sea salt and lemons.

The coarse sea salt will act as a physical exfoliant and wipe away any dirt, food residue or grime. The citric acid in the lemon will act as your disinfectant and kill any bacteria.

• It might seem like a lot of work, but don't skip the conditioning step.
• Moisturized wood is healthy and attractive timber.
• Use pure mineral oil as it won't break down or become rancid the way a substance such as olive oil will.
• Gently apply it to the wood with a microfiber towel and rub it in circular motions until the wood is no longer soaking in the oil.
• Wipe away any excess with a clean rag and let the wood sit at least 24 hours before you use it again.

You actually won't need to wash away the oil if you let the cutting board sit for the appropriate amount of time. The oil will in fact soak into the wood, leaving your cutting board healthy and moisturized.

Wood Is the Better Choice

As you can see, I highly recommend that any chef invests in a great wood cutting board. Not only is it the more hygienic choice, but a wood cutting board can add a touch of elegance when used as a serving tray.

Ultimately, the right care and maintenance will ensure that your wood cutting board remains a fantastic asset to your kitchen.

Choosing Your Wood Cutting Board

If you're going to invest in a wood cutting board, then it's essential that you procure one that will meet your culinary needs and suit your personal style.

Here are 5 wood cutting boards that I personally recommend based on their appearance, quality and craftsmanship.

*Below, you'll find our more detailed reviews, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.

My Final Word

Ultimately, if I had to suggest one board that was, pardon the pun, a cut above the rest, it would absolutely be the Mountain Woods 15-by-12-Inch Butcher Block Cutting Board.

This cutting board is the clear winner for two reasons. First and foremost, it is utterly stunning and fabulously does double duty as a gorgeous serving item.

Besides its aesthetic appeal, though, it's truly a great product. It can withstand a wide array of cutting techniques and blades, and it conditions to factory quality when cared for regularly.

What do you look for when shopping for a wood cutting board? What would be the necessary components of, in your opinion, the best wood cutting board? Share your thoughts with me in the comments below.