Restoring a Butcher-Block Countertop

Butcher block countertops add warmth and character to any kitchen. But over time, they can develop scratches, stains, burns, and cracks. Our guide will walk you through how to repair and refinish your butcher block to reverse the wear and tear.

Tools and Materials for Butcher Block Restoration

Below are the tools you’ll need for this prokect:

How to Restore Your Butcher Block Countertops

Restoring butcher block countertops involves sanding down the surface to remove stains and scratches, then applying a food-safe oil or finish to protect the wood and enhance its natural beauty. This process not only rejuvenates the appearance of the countertop but also helps maintain its durability and hygiene. Regular maintenance, such as periodic oiling, can keep the countertop looking fresh and prolong its lifespan.

Here’s how it’s done.

Step 1: Clean and Disinfect

The first step in restoring your butcher block countertop is thoroughly cleaning to remove dirt, grime, and any surface contaminants. A clean work surface ensures better results in the subsequent restoration steps.

Removing Dirt and Grime

Start by wiping down the entire surface with a damp cloth to remove loose debris. For tougher dirt, use a mild soap solution and a soft-bristled brush, scrubbing gently with the wood grain. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a microfiber cloth.

Treating Mildew and Stains

To remove mildew, stir a teaspoon of powdered oxygen bleach (sodium percarbonate) into a cup of hot water until it dissolves. Wearing a nitrile glove, dip a stiff, nylon-bristle scrub brush into the solution and scrub the wood for a couple of minutes. Redip as needed to keep the surface wet. The mix will foam slightly, then subside.

Wait 10 minutes for the bleach to work, then rinse thoroughly with a sponge and cool water. The wood will lighten as it dries, but if it’s still stained, mix up a new batch of bleach and repeat the scrubbing process.

To tackle wine stains, pour fresh hydrogen peroxide (3% solution) into a bowl. Use a cotton swab to dab the peroxide only on the stain (this solution can lighten unstained wood). Let the solution sit for a couple of minutes, then wipe with a damp microfiber cloth. Repeat as needed and let dry

Step 2: Sand

Use coarse, 60-grit sandpaper or sanding sponge to abrade the discolored wood, but don’t try to get rid of discoloration entirely: Sanding too much in one spot will create a dip. It’s okay to sand across the grain initially, but be sure your final strokes follow the grain.

Once the countertop is dry and the blemishes are mostly gone, sand the entire surface. Start with 100-grit paper, which should eliminate any remaining marks, then finish with 150. The best tool for this purpose is a 6-inch random-orbit sander, guided in slow, overlapping passes going with the wood grain.

Step 3: Fill and Seal Cracks

Melt canning wax in a small saucepan, then carefully pour the liquid into any cracks or separations. When the wax has solidified but is still soft, scrape off the excess with a 5-in-1 tool.

Next, pour a wax-and-oil finish, like Butcher Block Conditioner, onto the wood and rub it back and forth with a lint-free cloth. Wait 20 minutes, then buff with a clean cotton cloth. To maintain the countertop’s stain resistance, reapply whenever the wood looks dry.

Step 4: Refinishing

In hardworking kitchens, food-safe oils and waxes are ideal finishes for butcher block because they’re easy to wipe on, and, for the most part, there’s no wait for them to cure. Mineral oil is cheap and readily available but doesn’t last long. Blends of beeswax and mineral oil have a lovely scent, a bit of sheen, and better water repellency than mineral oil alone.

Steer clear of linseed oil and cooking oils, like olive and canola, which turn rancid. Also, avoid finishes like varnish and polyurethane; their hard films are difficult to refinish when they chip, peel, or get scratched.

Maintaining Your Restored Butcher Block

Regular upkeep preserves the finish of your block and extends its lifespan. A little daily maintenance goes a long way:

• Clean spills immediately to prevent staining
• Use a food-safe cleaner or mild soap and water for daily cleaning
• Avoid letting water stand on the surface
• Use cutting boards to minimize direct knife contact with the countertop

Regular Maintenance Schedule

Adopt a regular maintenance schedule to keep your butcher block in top condition.

• Reapply oil or conditioner every 4–6 weeks or whenever the wood looks dry
• Perform a light sanding and refinishing annually to address minor wear and tear
• Inspect regularly for signs of damage and address issues promptly

If you’re interested in installing a butcher block countertop, Nathan Gilbert explains how in the video below.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even with proper care, butcher block countertops may occasionally encounter issues. Knowing how to address these problems can help maintain the integrity and appearance of your countertop.

Water Damage

If your butcher block has been exposed to excessive moisture:

1. Dry the surface thoroughly with clean towels
2. Allow the wood to air dry completely
3. Sand any raised grain once the wood is dry
4. Apply a fresh coat of oil or conditioner

For severe water damage, you may need to sand down the affected area and refinish it entirely.

Warping Issues

Warping can occur due to changes in humidity or improper installation. To address minor warping:

1. Use a damp cloth to introduce moisture to the concave side
2. Place weights on the convex side
3. Allow the wood to slowly return to its original shape

For significant warping, consult a professional, as the countertop may need to be removed and flattened using specialized equipment.