Are you a home cook looking for eco-friendly kitchenware and wondering what’s the best wood for cutting boards? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, we’ll be talking about the pros and cons of hardwood vs softwood cutting boards and why we work only with sustainably and locally sourced hardwoods.
Whether you’re looking for a sustainable option or just want the perfect surface for preparing meals, we have a board for you.
Understanding Hardwood vs Softwood Cutting Boards
Hardwood cutting boards, such as those made from maple, cherry, or black walnut, are known for their durability and strength. They are less likely to scratch or dent, making them a great option for heavy-duty chopping and slicing.
Additionally, hardwood cutting boards have a tighter grain structure, which means they are less porous and less likely to absorb moisture and bacteria.
On the other hand, softwood cutting boards, like those made from pine or cedar, are generally more affordable and lightweight. They can be easier to work with and are less likely to dull your knives. However, softwood cutting boards are more porous and require more maintenance and care to prevent bacterial growth.
While softwood cutting boards do have some advantages, we think that the durability and relative ease of care of hardwoods makes them the best wood for cutting boards.
That’s why at Spencer Peterman, we work exclusively with locally and sustainably sourced hardwoods to make our handcrafted cutting boards. With the right care, one of our boards can last for decades.
Always Locally and Sustainably Sourced
At Spencer Peterman, sustainability is at the core of what we do. We pride ourselves on using locally sourced, upcycled wood for all of our cutting boards. We obtain cut and fallen logs from local tree services and utilize every part of the tree. Nothing goes to waste. We even use scrap wood to heat our workshop.
By choosing a cutting board made from upcycled wood, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are contributing to the reduction of waste. Plus, you’ll be supporting local businesses and promoting sustainable practices.
Not only are our cutting boards environmentally friendly, but they also offer excellent quality and durability. Each board is carefully crafted to provide a smooth and sturdy surface for all your food preparation needs.
So, if sustainability is a priority for you, consider investing in a cutting board from Spencer Peterman. Not only will you have a beautiful and functional addition to your kitchen, but you’ll also be making a positive impact on the environment.
Our cutting and serving boards are available in a variety of wood options. In the next sections, we’ll explore each of these wood types to help you choose the perfect one for your kitchen.
Cherry Cutting Boards
Cherry cutting boards offer a beautiful and elegant option. With their warm reddish-brown color and unique grain patterns, they can add a touch of sophistication to any culinary space.
One of the biggest advantages of cherry wood is its durability. Cherry is a hardwood known for its strength and longevity. It is less likely to warp or crack over time, making it a reliable choice for heavy-duty chopping and slicing. Additionally, cherry cutting boards are resistant to knife marks, preserving their smooth surface and attractive appearance.
However, it’s important to note that cherry wood is more porous compared to other hardwoods. This means it can absorb moisture and bacteria more easily, which may require extra attention to cleaning and maintenance. We’ll share some simple wood care tips later in this post.
Maple Cutting Boards
Maple cutting boards are a popular choice among home cooks and professional chefs alike. Both durable and gorgeous, maple wood offers a range of benefits for those in search of a reliable and versatile cutting board.
One of the key advantages of maple wood is its exceptional durability. Maple is a hardwood, which means it is tough and resilient. It can withstand heavy chopping and slicing without showing signs of wear and tear. This makes it an ideal choice for those who require a cutting board that can handle rigorous use on a daily basis.
In terms of porosity, maple wood strikes a balance between being too absorbent and too resistant. While it is not as dense as some other hardwoods, it is still less porous than softwood options. This means that maple cutting boards are less likely to absorb moisture, bacteria, and odors, making them easier to clean and maintain.
Our maple boards offer something unique as well. We work exclusively with spalted and ambrosia maple. Both of these wood types have features that make each board one of a kind, and ideal for a display piece as well as a functional tool.
Spalted maple is prized for its distinct patterns and colors, which are created by naturally occurring fungi. This adds an artistic touch to the cutting board and can make it a centerpiece in any kitchen.
Ambrosia maple, on the other hand, features unique streaks and patterns caused by the ambrosia beetle. This gives the cutting board a rustic forest-to-table appearance.
Overall, maple cutting boards offer durability, moderate porosity, and the opportunity to choose from a variety of eye-catching wood options. Whether you prioritize functionality, aesthetics, or both, a maple cutting board is a solid choice for any kitchen.
Black Walnut Cutting Boards
Black walnut cutting boards are a popular choice for those seeking a combination of durability and aesthetics in their kitchen. With their rich, dark color and beautiful grain patterns, black walnut boards can instantly elevate the look of any counter top.
One of the standout features of black walnut wood is its exceptional durability. Black walnut is a strong hardwood resistant to warping and cracking. This makes it an excellent choice for heavy-duty chopping and slicing, as it can withstand the rigors of daily use without showing signs of wear and tear.
In terms of porosity, black walnut falls somewhere in between hardwoods and softwoods. It is less porous than softwoods like pine or cedar, meaning it is less likely to absorb moisture and bacteria. However, black walnut is more porous in comparison to other hardwoods like maple or cherry. This means that regular oiling and proper drying after each use are crucial to prevent bacterial growth and maintain the longevity of your black walnut cutting board.
Beyond its functional benefits, black walnut wood also adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen. Its dark, chocolatey color and intricate grain patterns make for a striking visual statement.
How to Care for Your Wooden Kitchenware
Taking care of your wood cutting board is essential to ensure its longevity and hygiene. By following a few simple steps, you can keep your cutting board in excellent condition for years to come.
Wash your cutting board with warm water and mild dish soap after each use. Use a sponge or cloth to gently scrub away any food residue. Once clean, make sure to thoroughly dry your cutting board to prevent moisture from being absorbed into the wood.
Avoid soaking your cutting board in water or exposing it to extremes of temperature. Wood is a natural material that can expand and contract with changes in moisture and temperature, which can lead to warping or cracking. Instead, wash and dry your cutting board immediately after use and store it in a dry and cool place.
To keep your cutting board in top shape and to prevent it from drying out, regularly condition it with our specially formulated wood conditioners.
With these simple care tips, you’ll keep your wooden cutting board in excellent condition and ready to assist you in all your culinary efforts.
Our Cutting and Serving Board Collection
By considering your specific needs, aesthetic preferences, and the unique options available in different wood types, you can choose the right wood cutting board from our collection that perfectly suits your kitchen and culinary needs. Shop our full collection of sustainably and locally sourced cutting and serving boards right here.
