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The Best Cutting Board Oil Options: Why Fractionated Coconut Oil Reigns Supreme

Writer's picture: Erik AlbrechtErik Albrecht


Image showing mineral oil and coconut oil on top of a live edge cutting board.
Mineral Oil vs. Coconut Oil – Which is the Best for Your Cutting Board? Discover the key differences and why Bumblechutes’ Hydrating Wood Serum is the superior choice for lasting protection and hydration!

Cutting boards are the unsung heroes of the kitchen. They endure daily use, sharp knives, moisture exposure, and frequent washing—all of which can take a toll on the wood. Proper care and maintenance not only extend the life of your cutting board but also ensure it remains sanitary and functional. One of the most crucial aspects of wood care is oiling your cutting board regularly. But not all oils are created equal.


In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best cutting board oil options, why mineral oil is just okay but not great, and why fractionated coconut oil—like the one found in Bumblechutes’ Hydrating Wood Serum—is a superior choice. We’ll also discuss the frequency of oiling, how to properly oil your cutting board, and why maintaining your board is essential for hygiene and longevity. Plus, for those looking for a bulk alternative, Bumblechutes' Woodworker’s Oil provides another excellent option.


Why Your Cutting Board Needs Oil

Wood is a natural material that expands and contracts with moisture and temperature changes. If left untreated, wooden cutting boards can dry out, crack, and warp. Additionally, porous wood can absorb food juices, leading to bacterial growth. Applying oil to your cutting board helps to:


  • Hydrate the wood, preventing drying and cracking.

  • Create a moisture barrier, reducing absorption of liquids and bacteria.

  • Enhance the natural beauty of the wood grain.

  • Extend the lifespan of your cutting board, saving you money in the long run.


Oiling your cutting board regularly is the best way to keep it in top condition—but which oil should you use? Let’s break it down.


Common Cutting Board Oils: The Good, the Bad, and the Best

Feature

Fractionated Coconut Oil (Hydrating Wood Serum)

Mineral Oil (Woodworker’s Oil)

Vegetable Oils

Long-Lasting Protection

✅ Yes

❌ No

❌ No

Won’t Go Rancid

✅ Yes

✅ Yes

❌ No

Absorbs Deeply

✅ Yes

❌ No

❌ No

Antibacterial Properties

✅ Yes

❌ No

❌ No

Eco-Friendly

✅ Yes

❌ No (Petroleum-Based)

✅ Yes (But Spoils)

1. Mineral Oil (It’s Okay, But There’s Better)

Mineral oil has long been a go-to choice for cutting board maintenance. It’s inexpensive, widely available, and food-safe. However, there are some major downsides:


  • It’s a petroleum byproduct – While food-grade mineral oil is safe, it comes from the same base materials as crude oil.

  • It doesn’t polymerize – Unlike some plant-based oils, mineral oil does not cure or harden, meaning it never truly bonds with the wood.

  • It evaporates quickly – Mineral oil wears off easily, requiring frequent reapplications.

  • It doesn’t offer long-lasting protection – Since it doesn’t bond with the wood, it offers only temporary hydration and protection.


For those looking for an affordable bulk solution, Bumblechutes’ Woodworker’s Oil provides a high-quality, food-safe mineral oil option designed for those who prefer traditional mineral oil treatments.


2. Vegetable Oils (A Big NO!)

Some people mistakenly use vegetable oils like olive, canola, or sunflower oil to condition their cutting boards. This is a terrible idea because these oils:


  • Turn rancid over time, creating an unpleasant smell and potential bacteria breeding ground.

  • Leave a sticky residue instead of deeply penetrating the wood.

  • Are not designed for wood protection and break down too quickly.


3. Beeswax and Carnauba Wax (Great Additions, But Not Standalone Solutions)

Wax-based products, like Bumblechutes’ Wood Conditioner, are excellent for adding a layer of protection after oiling, but they shouldn’t be used as a standalone solution. They provide water resistance and a subtle sheen but do not penetrate the wood deeply like oil does.


4. Fractionated Coconut Oil (The Best Choice)

Now, let’s talk about the gold standard of cutting board oils: fractionated coconut oil. Specifically, the kind found in Bumblechutes’ Hydrating Wood Serum.


What Makes Fractionated Coconut Oil Superior?

  • It won’t go rancid – Unlike regular coconut oil or other plant-based oils, fractionated coconut oil is highly stable and will not spoil.

  • Deeply penetrates the wood – This oil absorbs into the wood fibers, offering long-lasting hydration and protection.

  • Prevents microbial growth – Coconut oil has natural antibacterial properties, making your cutting board safer to use.

  • Lightweight and non-greasy – It conditions the wood without leaving a sticky residue.

  • Eco-friendly – Unlike petroleum-based mineral oils, fractionated coconut oil is derived from natural sources.


If you want the absolute best protection for your cutting boards, Bumblechutes’ Hydrating Wood Serum is the way to go.


How Often Should You Oil Your Cutting Board?

The frequency of oiling depends on how often you use and wash your cutting board. A good rule of thumb is:

  • For daily use: Oil once a week.

  • For occasional use: Oil once a month.

  • For brand-new boards: Oil once a day for the first week to help saturate the wood.

A simple test to check if your board needs oil: Sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface. If the water beads up, the board is still well-conditioned. If it soaks in quickly, it’s time to reapply oil.


How to Properly Oil Your Cutting Board

  1. Start with a clean and dry board – Wash with warm, soapy water and let it fully air dry before applying oil. The salt in the Bumblechutes Wood Cleaning Kit acts as a natural abrasive, effectively scrubbing away food residue, stains, and bacteria without damaging the wood, making it a safe and eco-friendly way to deep-clean your cutting board.

  2. Apply a generous amount of oil – Pour Bumblechutes’ Hydrating Wood Serum or Woodworker’s Oil onto the surface.

  3. Spread the oil evenly – Use a clean cloth, paper towel, or your hands to rub the oil into the wood, ensuring full coverage.

  4. Let the oil soak in – Allow the board to sit for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper absorption.

  5. Wipe off excess oil – Use a dry cloth to remove any oil that hasn’t absorbed.

  6. Apply a wax finish (optional) – For extra water resistance, apply Bumblechutes’ Wood Conditioner after oiling.


Common Myths & Misconceptions Section


  1. “You don’t need to oil your cutting board.” 

    1. This is one of the most damaging misconceptions about wood care. Cutting boards are constantly exposed to moisture, detergents, and temperature fluctuations, which can dry out the wood and cause cracking. Without regular oiling, the board becomes brittle, absorbs more liquids (increasing the risk of bacteria growth), and deteriorates much faster. Oiling helps to hydrate, protect, and extend the life of your board, making it an essential step in maintenance.


  2. “Olive oil is fine for wood care.” 

    1. Many people assume that because olive oil is food-safe, it must be a good option for wood conditioning. However, olive oil (along with other vegetable oils) turns rancid over time, creating an unpleasant smell and a sticky residue. Unlike fractionated coconut oil or mineral oil, olive oil does not fully absorb into the wood, making it ineffective for long-term protection.


  3. “Soap is enough to clean a cutting board.” 

    1. While washing your cutting board with soap removes surface-level dirt and bacteria, it does nothing to prevent the wood from drying out. Over time, washing without reapplying oil will strip away natural moisture, leading to cracks and warping. Regular oiling restores and protects the wood fibers, ensuring your board remains durable and resistant to moisture absorption.


Final Thoughts: Invest in the Best Cutting Board Oil

While mineral oil has been the standard for years, fractionated coconut oil—especially the kind used in Bumblechutes’ Hydrating Wood Serum—is a far superior choice. It offers longer-lasting protection, doesn’t go rancid, and deeply nourishes your cutting board. Whether you’re a home cook or a professional chef, taking the time to oil your cutting board with the right product will ensure its longevity and safety for years to come.


For those who prefer a bulk mineral oil solution, Bumblechutes’ Woodworker’s Oil is an excellent alternative. And if you want to add a layer of protection, consider a Wood Conditioner for an extra moisture-resistant finish.


Your cutting board is a crucial part of your kitchen—treat it with the care it deserves!


What type of oil do you currently use to maintain your cutting board?

  • Fractionated Coconut Oil (like Bumblechutes’ Hydrating Wood

  • Mineral Oil (like Bumblechutes’ Woodworker’s Oil)

  • A combination of oil and wax

  • I don’t oil my cutting board (but I should!)



The full line of natural wood treatment products for the kitchen from Bumblechutes.
Complete your kitchen care routine with Bumblechutes' ultimate lineup—premium oils, waxes, and cleaners designed to keep your woodware in perfect condition! The Ultimate Kitchen Care Kit!

This article was written by Erik Albrecht, woodworker and founder of Bumblechutes, who has spent years researching the best oils and waxes to care for wooden products. His expertise in wood care ensures that your cutting boards, utensils, and furniture receive the highest level of protection and longevity.

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