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Best Oil For Butcher Block Countertops (2024 Update)

If you’re looking for a beautiful and durable countertop, a butcher block countertop is an excellent choice. Butcher block countertops are made of sturdy and natural hardwood, perfect for cooking and preparing meals. But to keep it looking fresh and beautiful, it's important to oil it regularly. Finding the best oil for butcher block countertops can be tricky, but with the right factors in mind, you can choose the perfect oil for your countertop.

When searching for the best oil for your butcher block, consider the type of wood used in the countertop, how often you use your kitchen, and how much maintenance you are willing to do. Some oils can darken the wood, which can be an issue if you want to preserve the countertop's light color. Some oils require reapplication regularly, so you should consider the time and energy you can dedicate to maintaining the countertop.

So, what is the best oil for your butcher block countertop? Some options include mineral oil, beeswax, or walnut oil. Mineral oil is an affordable option that won't darken the wood or affect the countertop's natural color. Beeswax offers extra protection, and walnut oil can give the countertop a richer, darker finish.

Are you tired of a dull and lifeless countertop? Do you want your kitchen to have that brand new look and feel? Do you want to know the secrets to maintaining your butcher block countertop? Keep reading to discover more about the best oil for butcher block countertops that can keep your kitchen looking beautiful and pristine.

10 Best Oil For Butcher Block Countertops

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is ideal for conditioning and maintaining wood cutting boards, butcher blocks, knife blades, cast iron tools, and pans.
2
Ideal for rehydrating and maintaining heavy use cutting boards and utensils, ensuring food-grade safety.
3
It is ideal for protecting and maintaining the quality of butcher blocks and cutting boards.
4
It is ideal for maintaining and protecting cutting boards, wooden butcher blocks, and kitchen countertops with food grade mineral oil.
5
It is an ideal counter top for both residential and commercial applications due to its thickness and oil finish.
6
Ideal for cleaning and restoring butcher block, wooden countertops, and utensils before applying food grade mineral oil.
7
Ideal for use as a kitchen counter top, with its blended cherry wood and oil finish creating a durable and stylish surface.
8
Ideal for conditioning and protecting cutting boards, butcher blocks, and other food-grade wooden surfaces.
9
It is ideal for caring and protecting soapstone, slate, concrete composite, and butcher block counter tops safely and naturally.
10
It is ideal for re-hydrating wooden cutting boards, utensils and bowls as a food grade conditioner and oil.
It is ideal for conditioning and maintaining wood cutting boards, butcher blocks, knife blades, cast iron tools, and pans.
Ideal for rehydrating and maintaining heavy use cutting boards and utensils, ensuring food-grade safety.
It is ideal for protecting and maintaining the quality of butcher blocks and cutting boards.
It is ideal for maintaining and protecting cutting boards, wooden butcher blocks, and kitchen countertops with food grade mineral oil.
It is an ideal counter top for both residential and commercial applications due to its thickness and oil finish.
Ideal for cleaning and restoring butcher block, wooden countertops, and utensils before applying food grade mineral oil.
Ideal for use as a kitchen counter top, with its blended cherry wood and oil finish creating a durable and stylish surface.
Ideal for conditioning and protecting cutting boards, butcher blocks, and other food-grade wooden surfaces.
It is ideal for caring and protecting soapstone, slate, concrete composite, and butcher block counter tops safely and naturally.
It is ideal for re-hydrating wooden cutting boards, utensils and bowls as a food grade conditioner and oil.

1. Raw Plus Rare Vegan Wood Oil (1gal)

Introducing our premium quality pure mineral oil that is derived from organic sources and is USP food grade certified. This mineral oil is naturally tasteless, colorless, and completely odorless, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of applications.

Enriched with Vitamin E, this mineral oil is safe enough to use as a topical treatment for sensitive, dry, and cracked skin, such as eczema. It is also effective in removing makeup without clogging pores.

In addition, this pure mineral oil can be used for restoring moisture in dull wooden cutting boards, metal blades, cast iron tools, or soapstone countertops. It is a versatile product that can be used in a variety of ways, making it a must-have in every household.

Our food grade mineral oil comes in two different sizes, 32 and 128 fluid ounces, and is filled in a plastic container with heat-sealed foil and a resealable cap for a leak-proof closure. The ergonomic design handle allows for easy grip and carrying convenience.

Rest assured that this mineral oil is kosher certified, ensuring its authenticity and quality. It is a great choice for those who value high-quality, organic, and safe products.

2. Block Conditioner & Cutting Board Oil Duo

The Butcher Block Conditioner is a specially formulated blend of genuine beeswax, Brazilian Carnauba wax, and pure USP Food Grade Mineral Oil. These high-quality ingredients work together to provide a revitalizing treatment for your wooden surfaces.

The food-grade mineral oil has excellent penetrating qualities, which, when combined with the water-resistant traits of beeswax and carnauba wax, helps to rejuvenate the wood, prevent drying, and even repair knife marks. Regular use of the Butcher Block Conditioner will help to season and protect the wood by keeping the mineral oil in and the moisture out.

It is reassuring to know that the mineral oil used in the Butcher Block Conditioner exceeds U.S. FDA regulations for direct and indirect contact with food. This means that you can use it on your wooden cutting boards and other kitchen surfaces without any worries.

In addition to its practical benefits, the Butcher Block Conditioner also delivers an attractive satin wax finish to your wooden surfaces. This natural-looking finish is perfect for butcher block countertops and other wooden surfaces where you want to maintain the beauty of the wood while also keeping it protected.

3. Food-Safe Mineral Oil Spray For Butcher Blocks

Introducing a one-pint spray bottle of 100% food grade mineral oil, approved by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) and certified by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), with a certificate available upon request. This food safe oil is an excellent solution to prevent the absorption of food odors, making it an ideal choice for use with kitchen items.

The mineral oil is completely colorless and odorless, and helps keep food products fresh and crisp, making it an essential addition to any kitchen. Its uses are varied and numerous, including as a butcher block oil, cutting board oil, wood stain, soapstone oil, lubricator, laxative, and bamboo oil.

This product is proudly made in the USA, ensuring the highest quality standards and reliability. Use it with confidence knowing that it is safe for all your food preparation needs. Don't let unwanted odors and stains ruin your food, use this mineral oil to keep it fresh and delicious.

4. Clark's Food Safe Wood Applicator & Care Kit.

The newly redesigned CLARK'S applicator boasts an ergonomic handle that fits comfortably in the user's hand. The handle's contouring is specifically tailored to the shape of the hand, providing a comfortable and secure grip. Furthermore, the updated design reduces the weight of the applicator by 30% while maintaining the same footprint.

Crafted from high-quality hardwood maple, this applicator is proudly made in the USA, in Windsor, Connecticut. The level of quality and craftsmanship that goes into each CLARK'S applicator is unparalleled in today's market, making it a reliable and long-lasting tool for any user.

This applicator is specifically designed to work on large wood surfaces with CLARK'S Wax and food-grade mineral oil for cutting boards. It can be used on countertops, chef's kitchens, butcher blocks, butcher block islands, and commercial culinary facilities. The wide range of applications makes it a versatile and essential tool for any woodworker or chef.

In addition to its functionality, the CLARK'S applicator is also environmentally friendly. Instead of throwing out paper or cloth towels with wax residue, users can simply place the applicator in a resealable plastic bag and reuse it next time. This not only reduces waste but also saves money in the long run.

CLARK'S prides itself on providing excellent customer service and expert support. Their customer care team responds to every customer email, ensuring that users have a positive and seamless experience with their products.

5. John Boos Walkct-Bl4825-O Blended Walnut Counter Top With Oil Finish, 1.5" Thickness, 48" X 25"

The walnut wood countertop is an excellent addition to any kitchen. Measuring 48 inches long, 25 inches wide, and 1.5 inches thick, it provides ample space to chop, cut, and prepare food. The natural wood surface is finished with a food-safe oil, the same oil used on John Boos' famous cutting boards, making it safe for use as a cutting surface.

The edge grain walnut wood countertop is constructed with full-length exterior rails and random finger-jointed interior rails, giving it unique color variations. It should be noted that this item is not reversible, and the underside on some tops may show light imperfections that do not impact the function of the top and will not appear when installed. This feature allows for the honoring of each piece of high-grade wood and the commitment to sustainability.

The walnut wood countertop is proudly made in the USA by skilled craftspeople. It is made from sustainably harvested American Black Walnut Wood, ensuring that it is eco-friendly. Maintenance is easy, and the countertop can be periodically re-oiled using John Boos Mystery oil, available separately on Amazon, to preserve its durability and beauty. Wooden countertops are a low maintenance alternative to marble and granite, making them a popular choice among homeowners.

6. Organic Lavender-Rosemary Soap For Cutting Boards.

Introducing the Organic Castile Based Soap from CLARK’S, the perfect solution for your wooden kitchen items. This soap is specially formulated for Butcher Blocks, Cutting Boards, Bamboo Cutting Boards, Salad Bowls, Wood Utensils and Wood Countertops.

With a fresh and natural scent, the CLARK’S Cutting Board Soap leaves your wooden kitchen items smelling great. Unlike most dish soaps, this soap contains no harmful additives or artificial thickeners or gels. You can trust that this soap is safe for your wooden kitchen items.

For complete care of your cutting board, try CLARK’S complete 3-step care solution, which includes food safe mineral oil and wood wax. This solution ensures that your wooden kitchen items remain in great condition for a long time.

Using the CLARK’S Cutting Board Soap is easy. Simply rinse your cutting board or wooden kitchen item with water, lather up with the soap, rinse it off with warm water, and dry with a towel. Now you’re ready to prepare your next meal!

At CLARK’S, we take pride in the quality of our products and we want to make sure that our customers are happy with their purchase. Our customer care team responds to every customer email to ensure that your experience matches the quality of our products.

7. John Boos Chykct-Bl1825-O Blended Cherry Counter Top With Oil Finish, 1.5" Thickness, 18" X 25"

This cherry wood countertop is a versatile addition to any kitchen. Measuring 18 inches wide, 25 inches long, and 1.5 inches thick, this countertop offers ample space for food preparation and presentation. The natural wood surface is finished with a food-safe oil, which allows you to use the countertop as a cutting surface.

Crafted with full-length exterior rails and random finger-jointed interior rails, this edge grain cherry wood countertop features unique color variations that add character to your kitchen. It's important to note that this item is not reversible and the underside on some tops may show light imperfections. However, these imperfections will not appear when installed and do not impact the function of the top. This allows the manufacturer to honor each piece of high-grade wood and their commitment to sustainability.

This countertop is proudly made in the USA by skilled craftspeople, ensuring that it's of the highest quality. It's easy to maintain too! Simply re-oil the countertop periodically using John Boos Mystery oil (sold separately on Amazon) to preserve durability and beauty.

8. Food Grade Cutting Board Care Essentials

This wooden conditioner is specially formulated to deeply penetrate into the wood pores, enhancing the natural color of the wood and preventing it from drying and cracking. It is an essential tool for maintaining and conditioning all types of wooden kitchen items like butcher blocks, cutting boards, wooden bowls, and utensils.

With regular use, this conditioner helps to keep your kitchen items looking great and lasting for years. It also cleans and neutralizes any odors on well-used cutting surfaces and wooden utensils, leaving them fresh and ready for use.

This wooden conditioner is safe for use with direct and indirect food contact. In fact, it exceeds the requirements set forth in the U.S. FDA regulations for food contact, giving you peace of mind while using it in your kitchen.

9. Natural Bee Care For Countertops

Introducing Daddy Van's All Natural Beeswax Countertop Care – the perfect solution for those looking to renew and protect soapstone, slate, concrete composite, and wood butcher block countertops. This product is formulated with beeswax, which is less greasy than mineral oil, ensuring a longer-lasting and easier application.

Daddy Van's All Natural Beeswax Countertop Care gives your countertops a silky, smooth feeling while maintaining the matte finish that is so desirable in soapstone, slate, and butcher block countertops. With this product, your countertops will be beautified and protected, ensuring that they retain their original appearance for years to come.

Application is a breeze with the easy-to-use tin, and you can use it with peace of mind knowing that this product is made with all-natural ingredients. Daddy Van's All Natural Beeswax Countertop Care is also food safe, chemical-free, and non-toxic, making it safe for use in any kitchen.

This product is proudly made in Asheville, North Carolina, USA with domestic and imported ingredients. It is USDA Certified 100% Bio Based Product and Leaping Bunny Certified Cruelty Free. Get Daddy Van's All Natural Beeswax Countertop Care today and give your countertops the care they deserve!

10. Howard Food Grade Cutting Board Oil, Rehydrate Blocks

The REVITALIZING FORMULA BLEND from Howard is a must-have for anyone who wants to prevent drying and cracking of hardwoods and bamboo. Whether you're a professional chef working in a restaurant kitchen or someone who enjoys cooking at home, this conditioner will rejuvenate and revitalize your cutting boards. With its great size, it's perfect for use in industrial kitchens as well.

One of the best things about Howard's BUTCHER BLOCK OILS is that they are completely tasteless and odorless. This makes them ideal for use on cutting boards, as they won't affect the taste or smell of your food. The Vitamin E in these oils ensures that your cutting board will absorb them easily, providing a layer of protection that will extend the lifespan of your wood. When you apply this oil to your cutting board, the ingredients penetrate deep into the wood surface, preventing cracking and drying of unfinished wood. This formula is also great for use on wooden utensils.

Safety is of the utmost importance when it comes to butcher block conditioner, and that's why Howard's BUTCHER BLOCK CONDITIONER is the safest option on the market. Made with FOOD GRADE MINERAL OIL and Vitamin E, this conditioner provides another level of protection to your cutting boards and other wooden items. The high-quality, pure natural food grade mineral oil is ideal for use on salad bowls, wooden spoons, and even wooden toys.

Best Oil For Butcher Block Countertops FAQs

Are there any natural alternatives to mineral oil for butcher block countertops?

Yes, there are several natural alternatives to mineral oil for butcher block countertops. Mineral oil is commonly used to protect and maintain butcher block countertops, but it is a petroleum-based product that some people prefer to avoid due to environmental concerns or personal preferences.

One natural alternative is beeswax. Beeswax can be melted and applied to the surface of the butcher block, creating a protective barrier that repels water and prevents the wood from drying out. Another option is coconut oil, which is a natural and food-safe oil that can be applied to the surface of the countertop to maintain its appearance and prolong its lifespan.

Other natural alternatives to mineral oil for butcher block countertops include walnut oil, linseed oil, and tung oil. These oils are all derived from plants and offer similar protective benefits to mineral oil, but without the potential environmental concerns associated with petroleum-based products.

Ultimately, the choice of which natural alternative to use will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of your butcher block countertop. It is always recommended to test any new product on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface to ensure compatibility and desired results.

Can you use vegetable oil on butcher block countertops?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil on butcher block countertops. In fact, it is one of the most commonly used oils for this purpose. Vegetable oil is a food-safe oil that is easy to find and affordable. Moreover, it is a great choice for those who want to avoid chemical treatments on their butcher block countertops. Vegetable oil can help to protect the wood from drying out and cracking, while also providing a natural shine to the surface.

To apply vegetable oil to your butcher block countertop, start by cleaning the surface with a mild soap and warm water. Once the surface is dry, pour a small amount of vegetable oil onto the surface and use a clean, dry cloth to spread the oil evenly over the entire surface. Allow the oil to soak into the wood for at least 15-20 minutes before wiping away any excess oil with a clean, dry cloth. Repeat this process every few months or as needed to maintain the integrity of your butcher block countertop.

Does using oil on butcher block countertops protect against bacteria growth?

Using oil on butcher block countertops can help protect against bacteria growth to a certain extent. However, it is important to note that oil alone is not a sufficient disinfectant. While oil can help create a protective barrier on the surface of the countertop, it is still important to regularly clean and sanitize the surface to prevent the growth and spread of harmful bacteria.

When using oil on butcher block countertops, it is recommended to use food-grade mineral oil. This type of oil is safe for use on surfaces that come into contact with food and will not go rancid or spoil over time. Applying a thin layer of oil to the surface of the countertop can help prevent moisture from penetrating the wood and can also help protect against stains.

To properly maintain a butcher block countertop, it is important to clean it regularly with mild soap and water and to sanitize it with a solution of water and vinegar or bleach. By combining regular cleaning and sanitizing with the use of oil, you can help protect your butcher block countertop against bacteria growth and keep it looking beautiful for years to come.

Does using olive oil on butcher block countertops damage the wood?

Using olive oil on butcher block countertops can actually benefit the wood if done properly. Olive oil is a natural and safe way to moisturize and protect the wood, as it helps to prevent the wood from drying out and cracking. However, it's important to note that using too much olive oil or not wiping off the excess can lead to a buildup of oil on the surface, which can attract dust and dirt and make the surface sticky. It's recommended to use a small amount of olive oil on a soft cloth, and then wipe off any excess with a clean cloth. It's also important to regularly clean and sanitize the butcher block to prevent any bacteria growth. Overall, using olive oil on butcher block countertops can be a great way to maintain their beauty and prolong their lifespan as long as it's done in moderation and with proper care.

How do you apply oil to butcher block countertops?

To apply oil to a butcher block countertop, you will need to follow these simple steps:

1. Clean the countertop surface: Begin by cleaning the countertop with a mild soap and warm water. Rinse it thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.

2. Sand the surface: Use a medium grit sandpaper to sand the entire surface of the countertop. This will help to remove any scratches, stains, or imperfections.

3. Apply the oil: Apply a generous amount of food-grade mineral oil to the surface of the countertop. Use a clean cloth to rub the oil into the wood and ensure that it is evenly distributed. Let it soak in for several hours or overnight.

4. Wipe off excess oil: After the oil has had time to soak in, use a clean cloth to wipe off any excess oil that remains on the surface of the countertop.

5. Repeat as needed: Depending on the condition of your butcher block countertop, you may need to repeat this process several times over the course of a few weeks until the wood has been fully conditioned and protected.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your butcher block countertop is properly protected and maintained for years to come.

How long does it take for oil to soak into butcher block countertops?

The amount of time it takes for oil to soak into butcher block countertops can vary depending on the type of oil used and the condition of the wood. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few hours to overnight for oil to fully penetrate the wood fibers.

It's important to note that applying multiple coats of oil can help achieve a deeper penetration and better protection for the wood. However, it's also important to not over-saturate the wood with oil as it can lead to a sticky or greasy surface.

To ensure the best results, it's recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific oil being used and to regularly maintain and reapply the oil as needed. Additionally, it's important to clean up any spills or stains on the countertop as soon as possible to prevent damage to the wood.

How often should you oil your butcher block countertops?

Butcher block countertops are a beautiful addition to any kitchen, but they require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition. One of the most important maintenance tasks is oiling the countertops. The frequency with which you should oil your butcher block countertops depends on several factors, including how often you use them and the type of wood they are made from.

In general, it is recommended that you oil your butcher block countertops every three to four weeks. However, if you use your countertops frequently, you may need to oil them more often. You can tell if your countertops need oiling by looking for dry spots or cracks in the wood. If you see these signs, it is time to oil your countertops.

When oiling your butcher block countertops, be sure to use food-grade mineral oil or a specialized butcher block oil. Apply the oil liberally with a clean cloth, making sure to cover the entire surface of the countertop. Allow the oil to soak in for several hours, or overnight if possible. Then, wipe away any excess oil with a clean cloth.

By oiling your butcher block countertops regularly, you can help keep them looking beautiful for years to come.

What are the benefits of using mineral oil on butcher block countertops?

Mineral oil is a popular choice for treating and maintaining butcher block countertops. There are several benefits of using mineral oil on butcher block countertops. Firstly, mineral oil is a food-grade substance, which means it is safe to use in food preparation areas. It helps to prevent the growth of bacteria and other harmful microorganisms on the surface of the countertop. Secondly, mineral oil is an excellent moisturizer, which helps to keep the wood from drying out and cracking. This is especially important in areas with low humidity. Thirdly, mineral oil helps to protect the wood from stains and water damage. It creates a barrier on the surface of the wood, which prevents liquids from penetrating and damaging the wood fibers. Finally, mineral oil is easy to apply and inexpensive, making it a cost-effective way to maintain the beauty and integrity of your butcher block countertop. Overall, using mineral oil on butcher block countertops is a simple yet effective way to protect and maintain the beauty and functionality of your kitchen.

What is the difference between food-grade mineral oil and regular mineral oil for butcher block countertops?

The main difference between food-grade mineral oil and regular mineral oil for butcher block countertops is the level of purity and safety for human consumption. Food-grade mineral oil is specifically processed and refined to meet the standards set by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for safe use in food preparation and consumption. It is free from harmful chemicals, toxins, and contaminants that may pose health risks to humans. On the other hand, regular mineral oil may contain impurities that are not safe for human consumption and may cause adverse effects when ingested.

When it comes to butcher block countertops, food-grade mineral oil is the recommended choice as it serves as a protective barrier against moisture, stains, and germs while ensuring that the surface remains safe for food preparation. Regular mineral oil may be used as an alternative, but it is not recommended as it may contain harmful substances that can affect the quality and safety of the food. It is important to note that the application of mineral oil should be done regularly to maintain the quality and durability of the butcher block countertop.

What type of oil is best for butcher block countertops?

When it comes to selecting the best oil for butcher block countertops, there are a few factors to consider. First and foremost, you want an oil that is food-safe and won't leave any harmful residue on your countertops. Mineral oil is a popular choice for this reason, as it is odorless, tasteless, and won't spoil over time. Another option is walnut oil, which is also food-safe and has natural antibacterial properties. However, walnut oil is more expensive than mineral oil and may not be as readily available. In terms of application, it's important to apply oil to your butcher block countertops regularly to keep them in good condition. Depending on usage, this may be every few weeks or every few months. When applying oil, be sure to use a clean, lint-free cloth and work in the direction of the grain. With proper care and maintenance, your butcher block countertops can last for years to come.