When it comes to choosing kitchen essentials, we think handmade wood cutting boards are a cut above the rest (see what we did there?). These beautifully crafted boards add a touch of elegance to your kitchen. They also offer practical benefits that make them a superior choice for any home cook. In this post, we’ll dive into why handmade wood cutting boards should be a staple in every kitchen.
Wood vs Plastic Cutting Boards
When it comes to choosing the right cutting board for your kitchen, the debate between wood and plastic is a common one. Plastic cutting boards may seem like a convenient and affordable option. But there are several reasons why wood cutting boards are a better choice.
Firstly, wood is more sanitary than plastic. Studies have shown that bacteria are more likely to survive and multiply on plastic surfaces, whereas wood has natural antimicrobial properties that inhibit bacterial growth. This means that using a wood cutting board can help reduce the risk of food borne illnesses.
Another advantage of wood cutting boards is their durability. Plastic cutting boards can easily become scratched and warped over time. In contrast, wood boards better resist knife marks and maintain their shape and integrity with the right care. Plus, wood cutting boards are easier on your knives, as they are less likely to dull the blades compared to plastic.
Lastly, wood cutting boards are simply more aesthetically pleasing. The natural beauty and warmth of wood add a touch of elegance to your kitchen, making it a joy to prepare meals. They can also double as a serving board, perfect for displaying charcuterie, cheeses, and other appetizers when entertaining guests.
In summary, while plastic cutting boards may be a popular choice, the benefits of wood cutting boards are clear. From their superior hygiene properties to their durability and aesthetic appeal, wood cutting boards are a must-have for any home cook who wants to elevate their culinary experience.
Best Wood Types for Cutting Boards
When it comes to choosing the best wood types for cutting boards, durability and hygiene are key factors to consider. Hardwoods are generally the preferred choice for cutting boards as they are more resistant to knife marks and scratches compared to softwoods. They also have a longer lifespan, ensuring that your cutting board will stand the test of time.
In terms of hygiene, hardwoods are superior to softwoods. Their dense and tightly packed grain structure makes it more difficult for bacteria to penetrate the surface. Popular hardwood options for cutting boards include maple, walnut, and cherry. They also happen to be the hardwoods we work with when creating our boards at Spencer Peterman.
We take pride in working with unique wood varieties to create one-of-a-kind cutting boards. Our collection includes stunning options like ambrosia maple and spalted maple. These rare finds showcase the natural beauty and intricate patterns of the wood. These boards not only provide a durable and hygienic surface for cutting, but also serve as a stunning centerpiece in any kitchen.
In addition to these unique wood types, we also offer classic options like cherry and walnut. Cherry wood is known for its warm tones and smooth grain, adding a touch of elegance to your kitchen. Equally beautiful, walnut is also known for its durability and resilience.
Whatever wood type you choose, rest assured that we craft each cutting board from Spencer Peterman with absolute care and attention to detail, ensuring a high-quality and beautiful addition to your kitchen.
Our Handmade Wood Cutting Board Collection
We craft all of our boards from sustainably and locally sourced wood. We collect logs that would otherwise be chipped, burned, or left to rot by area tree services. In this way, we give trees from the New England forests surrounding our workshops new life, and reduce waste.
At Spencer Peterman, we make each board our workshop in Western MA. Stu Doogan, one of our talented woodworkers, carefully selects the best pieces from our upcycled logs, and cuts and sands each piece to perfection. Before they head out into the world, we coat all of our boards with a protective, all natural, food safe finish.
Our handmade wood cutting boards come in several shapes and sizes: handled, rectangular, oval and round. We also offer ambrosia slabs and baguette boards. Shop our entire handmade wood cutting board collection here.
Taking Care of Your Wood Cutting Board: Ensuring Longevity and Durability
Did you know that wood cutting boards are actually very easy to care for? To ensure that your handmade wooden boards last for years to come, proper care and maintenance are essential. Here are a few tips to ensure the longevity and durability of your boards:
- Hand wash: Always hand wash your wooden board with warm, soapy water. Avoid soaking for long periods or using harsh abrasives that can damage the wood.
- Dry thoroughly: After washing, make sure to dry your cutting board thoroughly with a clean towel. Moisture can cause the wood to warp or crack, so it’s important to remove any excess water.
- Apply oil: To maintain the beauty and finish of your wooden board, apply a food-safe conditioner regularly. This helps to nourish the wood and protect it from drying out. We offer two wood conditioners to keep your boards in prime shape.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: Wooden kitchenware is sensitive to extreme temperatures. It’s best to avoid exposing it direct sunlight, ovens, or microwaves. Extreme heat can cause the wood to expand or warp, while extreme cold can cause it to crack.
By following these simple care instructions, you can ensure that your handmade wooden boards remain in excellent condition and continue to add beauty to your kitchen for years to come.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect board for display, food prep, or an elegant charcuterie spread, we’ve got you covered. Shop our full collection right here!
