Wood is a material used to make a wide variety of things. Its durability and resistance to wear make it the ideal material for a cutting board. Some of the more common wood types include walnut, maple, cherry, oak, and pine. Each has their own benefits and drawbacks.
One major advantage of using wood is that it is resistant to bacteria. If you are planning to prepare foods that are raw, such as beets or turmeric, it is recommended that you wax your cutting board to prevent bacteria from hiding. Additionally, a regular coat of wax makes it easier to keep the board clean and waterproof.
Another benefit of using wooden cutting boards is that they are more absorbent than plastic. They also protect your knives. However, the downside is that they tend to splinter easily and retain odors and stains. In order to avoid these problems, it is important to choose the best board for your needs.
You may want to choose a hardwood board if you are looking for the best quality. These are more durable, and they are often sourced in the United States. Domestically harvested wood boards are considered a renewable resource, as they have a long history of being used.
If you are concerned about the environment, bamboo is a great alternative to plastic. Bamboo is a grass-like wood that is not only environmentally friendly, but it is also strong and easy on your knives. While bamboo cutting boards can be purchased without oil, you may find that you need to regularly apply a little mineral oil or beeswax to keep them smooth and protected.
Another benefit of using wood is that it can be sanded down to a more smooth and even surface. Although many wood varieties are available, you will be most likely to find that the best wood for cutting boards are cherry and maple. Walnut is another common type, although it is less porous than other woods.
A common problem with open-grained woods is that they can be breeding grounds for bacteria. This is because the pores are large enough for fluids and moisture to be absorbed by the wood. Because of this, it is not recommended to use these boards. Instead, you should look for a board that has a tight grain.
The hardness of your wood cutting board is another factor to consider. If you are using a cutting board for cutting up raw meat, you may want to buy a harder wood. For example, you can get an oak or teak board that has a higher Janka Hardness Rating.
You should also check the porosity of the board. Open-grained woods are more porous than other types of wood, which means they allow bacteria and mold to grow in the cracks. On the other hand, a board with a tight grain is less porous and will not harbor bacteria.
Other factors to consider when buying a cutting board include its cost and its durability. If you are preparing foods that need to be stored for a long period of time, a bamboo board may be the right choice for you.