It's a myth out there that caring for and cleaning butcher block is difficult or time consuming. It really depends on the sealer used. At J. Aaron we offer three premium wood sealers, each with its own cleaning and maintenance requirements. If you're not sure which sealer you've got call us and we'll let you know.

Caring For A Wood Top Sealed With Rubio Monocoat

Daily Cleaning

To clean use a light mixture of soap and water.

Maintenance

Re-apply Rubio Monocoat 2C oil in the appropriate color when the top looks very dry and/or starts to absorb water quickly. 

What Not To Do

  • Do not clean the surface with anything but a light mixture of soap and water.
  • Do not apply wax of any kind to the top.
  • Do not scrub with harsh products like Comet or Scotch Bright pads.
  • Do not set hot pan directly on the surface. Be careful taking lids off cooking pots and setting them on the surface. The hot steam can damage the finish.
  • Do not place or use harsh chemicals on the surface.
  • Do not use steel wood on the surface. Small pieces can get into the pores and rust.
  • Use common sense when cutting on the surface. If you purchased the countertop as a food preparation area then use it as one with no fear of cut marks. If you did not purchase it for food preparation you may not want to chop directly on the surface as it will leave marks.

Caring For A Wood Top Sealed With Conversion Varnish

Daily Cleaning

Cleaning a wood countertop sealed with 2k polyurethane we recommend using Simple Green all purpose cleaner. Do not use bleach or other harsh cleaner.

Maintenance

No ongoing maintenance is required. To cover small scratches and dings use a touch up pen. 

What Not To Do

  • Do not set hot pan directly on the surface. Be careful taking lids off cooking pots and setting them on the surface. The hot steam can damage the finish.
  • Do not scrub with harsh abrasives like Scotch Bright cleaning pads or Comet.
  • Do not place or use harsh chemicals on the surface.
  • Do not use steel wood on the surface. Small pieces can get into the pores and rust.
  • Use common sense when cutting on the surface. If you purchased the countertop as a food preparation area then use it as one with no fear of cut marks. If you did not purchase it for food preparation you may not want to chop directly on the surface as it will leave marks.

Caring For A Wood Top Finish With Butcher Block Wax

Daily Cleaning

Cleaning butcher block finished with butcher block wax we recommend using soap and water. Do not use bleach or other harsh cleaner.

Maintenance

Bi-Monthly application of Howard brand Butcher Block Conditioner should be performed for optimum care. It is specialized wood care for butcher blocks and cutting boards. The penetrating quality of food-grade mineral oil along with the water-resistant traits of beeswax and carnauba wax rejuvenates the wood and prevents drying and cracking. The naturally antibacterial waxes help repair knife marks and protect the wood by keeping the mineral oil in and the moisture out.

What Not To Do

  • Do not set hot pan directly on the surface.
  • Do not place or use harsh chemicals on the surface.
  • Do not use steel wood on the surface. Small pieces can get into the pores and rust.