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How to Use Both Mineral Oil & Tung Oil on a Butcher Block

Butcher blocks are usually made of pieces of maple or another hardwood pressed together to form a slab. The thick, hard surface of a butcher block is ideal for cutting, although modern kitchens commonly use butcher blocks for aesthetic purposes rather than practical. Butcher blocks should be regularly treated with mineral oil or Tung oil to maintain their look and to prevent warping and cracking. Varnishes and other such finishes should not be used on butcher blocks because cutting these finishes can cause moisture to sit beneath the finish and against the natural wood.

Things You'll Need

  • Dish soap
  • Clean sponges or rags
  • 220 grit sandpaper
  • Mineral oil
  • Raw Tung oil
  • Paper towel
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Instructions

  1. Treating A Butcher Block with Mineral Oil

    • 1

      Clean your butcher block with warm water and mild soap.

    • 2

      Allow the butcher block to dry, wiping moisture away with paper towels.

    • 3

      Pour mineral oil onto a rag and then sponge the oil onto the butcher block.

    • 4

      Allow the oil to dry (about 15minutes).

    • 5

      Repeat steps three and four until your butcher block doesn't absorb any more oil.

    • 6

      Wipe off excess oil that has not been absorbed using a clean rag.

    • 7

      Treat your butcher block with oil at least once a week.

    Treating a Butcher Block with Tung Oil

    • 8

      Sand any scratches using steel wool or 220 grit sandpaper until the surface of your butcher block is smooth and then clean the block with mild soap and water. Dry thoroughly.

    • 9

      Apply a thin layer of Tung oil to the surface of the butcher block using a sponge. Allow the Tung oil to soak into the butcher block for about 45 minutes.

    • 10

      Using a 220 grit sanding pad, sand the oil dampened surface. Wipe off remaining finish with a clean rag.

    • 11

      Rub the butcher blog vigorously using a clean rag until the Tung oil is completely absorbed into the wood.

    • 12

      Leave the butcher block overnight before using again. You may have to repeat process, as several coats are often needed when the butcher block is new or very old. Allow 24 to 48 hours between coats to cure the finish.