How to Care for a Charcuterie Board

How to Care for a Wooden Charcuterie Board That's Brand New

A good quality cheese board will come with tips on its care and cleaning – in which case, it's best to follow the charcuterie board care instructions provided by the manufacturer. However, if you're like those of us who didn't keep (or can't find) the instructions, follow along for more information!

Some new charcuterie boards have already been seasoned. Even if this is the case, it's still a good idea to wash your board before using it the first time.

Cheese Board Care Instructions: The Wash-Up

Cheese board care instructions begin with cleaning your board before the first use — then after every use going forward. You should NEVER put your charcuterie board in the dishwasher, however. It must be washed by hand, using the following steps:

1. Prepare a tub of hot water and dish soap but do NOT submerge your board in the water. This will be a sponge bath, not a soak.
2. Using a sponge or washcloth, gently remove any food particles from the board.
3. Rinse your cheese board thoroughly, ensuring all soap is washed off.
4. Allow your board to dry completely.

Some Smirly boards come with a black slate designed to simplify your clean up routine. To clean the slate, you can also gently wash with warm soapy water. Remember to clean after each use to make the most out of its lifespan. 

How to Care for a Wooden Charcuterie Board That's Brand New

A good quality cheese board will come with tips on its care and cleaning – in which case, it's best to follow the charcuterie board care instructions provided by the manufacturer. However, if you're like those of us who didn't keep (or can't find) the instructions, follow along for more information!

Some new charcuterie boards have already been seasoned. Even if this is the case, it's still a good idea to wash your board before using it the first time.

Removing Stains From Your Cheese Board

If you need to remove odors or stains from charcuterie boards, lemon juice and baking soda will come to the rescue. Simply apply a few drops of lemon juice and a sprinkle of baking soda on the area and rub it into the wood using a dampened cloth or sponge. Rinse, then dry your board.

Seasoning Charcuterie Boards

To maximize the life of your cheese board, it's crucial to season it periodically. Here are the steps to follow to ensure your charcuterie board is seasoned properly:

1. The best cutting board oil is FDA-approved food-grade mineral oil. It's odorless, flavorless and safe for human consumption.
2. Dampen a soft, lint-free cloth. A microfiber towel is a good choice.
3. Dip the cloth in the oil and apply a generous amount to the board.
4. Buff the oil into the wood.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until the wood is saturated.
6. Give the board 2-4 hours to absorb the oil.
7. Using a second cloth or paper towel, remove any excess oil.
8. Repeat this process monthly – or sooner if your board begins to dry out.

Cheese Board Ideas for Additional Care

Want to give your charcuterie board a little extra tender loving care? One of the best cheese board ideas is to use beeswax for upkeep. It moisturizes and shines your cutting board. Beeswax is food-safe and can help your charcuterie board maintain that showroom-new look – plus, it enhances the water resistance of your board. If you decide to use beeswax, follow these steps:

1. Mix beeswax with mineral oil and warm it. (Use 2 parts mineral oil to 1 part beeswax).
2. Measure out 2 tablespoons of the mixture.
3. Following the grain of the wood, rub the mixture into your cutting board.
4. Allow your charcuterie board to sit for 4-6 hours.
5. Wipe off any excess oil.

Charcuterie Board Care: The Don'ts

Now that we've covered everything you should do in caring for your charcuterie board, let's review what NOT to do:

• Dishwashers warp wood and should never be used to clean charcuterie boards.
• Steel wool and other abrasive scrubbers ruin the finish on a cheese board. You can use a plastic scraper if you come
• across stubborn foot bits.
• Soaking is bad for your board. Remove food particles with a soapy sponge dipped in dishwater and then rinse. Never
• submerge your board in a tub of water.
• Never use olive or vegetable oils to clean your board. Over time, they get rancid and can affect the flavor of anything
• you serve on your board.
• Don't expose your wooden board to direct heat or sunlight. It's best to store your board in a cool, dry, open space.

Now You Know How to Care for a Charcuterie Board — Put it Into Practice With a Cheese Board From Smirly

Maybe you're looking for a cheese board for yourself – or you need charcuterie board gift ideas for a bridal shower, birthday party or anniversary celebration. Now that you have a guide for charcuterie board care, you can buy with confidence and share your know-how with fellow party hosts. At Smirly, you'll find high-quality charcuterie boards with everything you need for a beautiful presentation. And with a little care, your charcuterie board will keep its youthful good looks for many years to come. Shop Smirly today!