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10 Best Oil For Cutting Boards 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Thirteen Chefs Mineral Oil - 8 oz Food Grade Conditioner for Wood Cutting Board, Countertop & Butcher Block, Lubricant for Knife or Meat Grinder - Safe USP Finish on Marble, Soapstone

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,236
Food-Safe
Type of Oil
Absorption Rate

Most important from
42531 reviews

Food-Safe
I've used food-grade mineral oil for over 20 years, and Thirteen Chefs' product is top quality and good value.
Type of Oil
This mineral oil meets 100% of my needs, is easy to apply, has no scent, and is fully absorbed into the wood without leaving any residue.
Absorption Rate
This mineral oil meets 100% of my needs, is easy to apply, has no scent, and is fully absorbed into the wood without leaving any residue.
Frequency of Application
The treatment process is simple: apply the oil, rub it in for 30 seconds, and let it sit for 12-24 hours.

The Thirteen Chefs Mineral Oil stands out in the category of oils for cutting boards thanks to its food-safe certification, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain their wooden kitchen tools. This oil is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, ensuring it won't affect the flavors of your food while being gluten-free adds to its appeal for those with dietary restrictions. Its easy application process, featuring a push-applicator cap, simplifies maintenance, allowing users to keep their cutting boards and butcher blocks in top condition with minimal effort. You only need to treat your board every three months, making it convenient for busy kitchens.

On the protective side, this mineral oil helps prevent cracking and drying, which is crucial for prolonging the life of wooden utensils. Moreover, it can also restore the condition of knives and kitchen appliances, adding value beyond just cutting boards.

This mineral oil is ideal for home cooks who prioritize food safety and ease of use in their kitchen maintenance. It may not be the most economical choice for those with extensive wood products to treat, but its quality and performance make it a reliable option for regular cutting board care.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,236
Food-Safe
Type of Oil
Absorption Rate

Most important from
42531 reviews

Food-Safe
I've used food-grade mineral oil for over 20 years, and Thirteen Chefs' product is top quality and good value.
Type of Oil
This mineral oil meets 100% of my needs, is easy to apply, has no scent, and is fully absorbed into the wood without leaving any residue.
Absorption Rate
This mineral oil meets 100% of my needs, is easy to apply, has no scent, and is fully absorbed into the wood without leaving any residue.
Frequency of Application
The treatment process is simple: apply the oil, rub it in for 30 seconds, and let it sit for 12-24 hours.
#2

CLARK'S Cutting Board Care Kit with Coconut Oil - Includes Butcher Block Oil and Wax - Made with Refined Coconut Oil, Natural Beeswax, and Carnauba Wax - For Kitchen Countertops and Butcher Blocks

Rating
9.7
Food-Safe

Most important from
4099 reviews

Food-Safe
Combines effective conditioning with a thoughtful formulation that avoids allergenic ingredients, making it a safer choice for sensitive households.

CLARK'S Cutting Board Care Kit combines refined coconut oil with natural beeswax and carnauba wax, creating a food-safe, natural conditioning treatment ideal for wooden kitchen surfaces like cutting boards and butcher blocks. The kit’s coconut oil blend penetrates deeply into wood grain, which helps maintain the board’s moisture and prevents cracking or drying out.

Following the oil, the beeswax layer adds extra protection against spills and stains, forming a durable barrier that keeps your board looking fresh and extending its life. This two-step approach is gentle yet effective, making it suitable for frequent use without harming the wood or leaving a sticky residue. The oils have a medium viscosity that absorbs well but don’t require daily application—usually once a month or as the wood starts to look dry is enough. Customers appreciate the fresh, natural scent and the economical value of buying oil and wax together.

This product is designed specifically for wooden surfaces and may not be the best choice for plastic or composite cutting boards. Since it’s made primarily from natural oils and waxes, it requires proper storage and occasional reapplication to maintain its protective benefits. If you want a safe and natural option to keep your wooden cutting boards nourished and protected with minimal effort, CLARK'S kit is a reliable choice.

Rating
9.7
Food-Safe

Most important from
4099 reviews

Food-Safe
Combines effective conditioning with a thoughtful formulation that avoids allergenic ingredients, making it a safer choice for sensitive households.
#3

NSF Certified Food Grade Mineral Oil - Gallon (128oz), Certified Food Safe Conditioner for Wood Cutting Boards, Butcher Blocks and Stainless-Steel Kitchen Equipment

Rating
9.4
Food-Safe
Frequency of Application

Most important from
4865 reviews

Food-Safe
The oil is NSF Certified Food Grade, ensuring it is safe for all kitchen uses.
Frequency of Application
Frequent reapplication is recommended for best results, but the large quantity makes this easy and cost-effective.

This NSF Certified Food Grade Mineral Oil is a great choice for anyone looking to maintain their wooden cutting boards, butcher blocks, and stainless-steel kitchen equipment. One of its key strengths is that it is completely food-safe, meaning you can confidently use it on items that come into contact with food. It has a colorless, odorless, and tasteless quality, which ensures that it won't alter the flavor or smell of your food. Additionally, it prevents the absorption of food odors, helping to keep your kitchen items fresh and clean. This mineral oil is also resistant to becoming rancid, unlike vegetable oils, making it a more reliable option for long-term use.

Another advantage is its versatility; beyond just cutting boards, this oil can be used for lubricating food processing machines, rust prevention on knives, and even as a stainless steel cleaner. This makes it a good investment for anyone who frequently uses these various kitchen items.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The absorption rate can vary depending on the type of wood, requiring regular applications to maintain the effectiveness of the oil. For those with busy kitchens, this could mean a more frequent maintenance schedule than expected. Additionally, while it's effective and safe, some users may find it doesn't penetrate as deeply into certain types of wood compared to other specialized oils.

Lastly, it comes in a sizable gallon container, which is great for frequent users, but might be too much for casual users who only need a small amount. This food-grade mineral oil is ideal for anyone looking to care for their wooden kitchenware and stainless steel appliances effectively, but be prepared for regular maintenance to achieve the best results.

Rating
9.4
Food-Safe
Frequency of Application

Most important from
4865 reviews

Food-Safe
The oil is NSF Certified Food Grade, ensuring it is safe for all kitchen uses.
Frequency of Application
Frequent reapplication is recommended for best results, but the large quantity makes this easy and cost-effective.

Buying Guide for the Best Oil For Cutting Boards

Choosing the right oil for your cutting board is essential to maintain its longevity, appearance, and hygiene. The right oil will help to protect the wood from drying out, cracking, and absorbing unwanted odors or bacteria. When selecting an oil, consider factors such as safety for food contact, ease of application, and the type of wood your cutting board is made from. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing the best oil for your cutting board.
Food-SafeThis specification indicates whether the oil is safe to use on surfaces that come into contact with food. It is crucial because cutting boards are used for food preparation, and using non-food-safe oil can lead to contamination. Look for oils that are labeled as food-safe, such as mineral oil, beeswax, or coconut oil. Avoid oils that can go rancid, like vegetable or olive oil, as they can spoil and create an unpleasant smell.
Type of OilDifferent types of oils can be used on cutting boards, each with its own properties. Mineral oil is a popular choice because it is food-safe, odorless, and does not go rancid. Beeswax is another option that provides a protective coating and adds a slight shine. Coconut oil is also food-safe and has natural antibacterial properties. Choose an oil based on your preference for application and the level of protection you desire. For example, if you want a simple, easy-to-apply oil, mineral oil might be the best choice. If you prefer a natural option with added benefits, consider coconut oil.
ViscosityViscosity refers to the thickness of the oil. Thicker oils, like beeswax, provide a more substantial protective layer but may be harder to apply evenly. Thinner oils, like mineral oil, are easier to apply and penetrate the wood more deeply. Consider the ease of application and the level of protection you need. If you want a quick and easy application, a thinner oil might be more suitable. If you are looking for a more durable finish, a thicker oil could be the better option.
Absorption RateThe absorption rate indicates how quickly and effectively the oil penetrates the wood. A higher absorption rate means the oil will soak into the wood more quickly, providing faster protection. This is important because it helps to keep the wood hydrated and prevents it from drying out and cracking. If you need to treat your cutting board quickly, look for an oil with a high absorption rate. If you have more time and prefer a more thorough treatment, a slower-absorbing oil may be suitable.
Frequency of ApplicationDifferent oils require different frequencies of application to maintain the cutting board's condition. Some oils, like mineral oil, may need to be applied more frequently, while others, like beeswax, provide longer-lasting protection. Consider how often you are willing to reapply the oil. If you prefer low maintenance, choose an oil that offers longer-lasting protection. If you don't mind frequent applications, a more commonly used oil like mineral oil might be appropriate.

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