8 Tips to Care for Your Handmade Epoxy Charcuterie Board
Investing in a handmade hardwood epoxy charcuterie board brings both beauty and functionality to your kitchen or dining table. These boards, with their striking combination of natural wood and vibrant epoxy resin, are perfect for entertaining,. But like any high-quality kitchenware, they require proper care to maintain their longevity and appearance.
Here are some essential tips for caring for your hardwood epoxy charcuterie board to ensure it stays beautiful for years to come:
1. Hand Wash Only
Your handmade hardwood and epoxy charcuterie board should never be placed in a dishwasher (or a microware - just saying). The high heat and moisture can damage both the wood and the epoxy. Instead, hand wash your board with warm water and mild soap after each use. Be sure to avoid soaking the board for too long, as this can cause the wood to warp or crack.
2. Dry Thoroughly
After washing, it’s important to dry your charcuterie board immediately with a clean towel. Letting the board air dry can lead to water absorption in the wood, which could result in swelling or splitting over time. Make sure the board is completely dry before storing it away.
3. Apply Food-Safe Oil Regularly
To keep the hardwood on your epoxy charcuterie board in prime condition, it’s essential to oil it regularly. Applying food-safe oils, such as mineral oil or beeswax, helps to condition the wood, preventing it from drying out and cracking. A good rule of thumb is to oil your board every month or whenever the wood begins to look dry.
It is best to avoid nut or olive oils. These can go rancid and make your board unsafe.
4. Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Wood and epoxy can both be sensitive to temperature changes. Keep your handmade charcuterie board away from direct heat sources like stovetops, ovens, or extended sunlight. Extreme temperatures can cause the wood to warp and the epoxy resin to lose its glossy finish or develop cracks.
5. Use Cutting Boards for Chopping
Although epoxy charcuterie boards are durable, they are primarily designed for serving rather than cutting. Using a separate cutting board for chopping foods will protect the surface of your charcuterie board from scratches and knife marks, preserving its smooth, polished appearance. Epoxy resin is harder than wood and will dull knives faster.
6. Clean Resin Surfaces Gently
The epoxy resin on your charcuterie board may resist stains and scratches better than wood, but it still needs gentle care. Use a soft sponge or cloth to clean the resin side, avoiding abrasive scrubbing pads or harsh cleaning agents, which could dull its shine over time.
7. Store It Properly
Proper storage is key to maintaining the beauty of your handmade hardwood epoxy charcuterie board. Store it in a cool, dry place, preferably standing on its side to allow air to circulate around the board. Stacking it with other boards or kitchen items could lead to pressure points, which may cause the wood to warp.
8. Remember, It’s Also Art
Keep in mind that your epoxy charcuterie board is always art and a serving board when you put food on it. When you are not serving food, your board is a showpiece for your home. Use it as decor.
Conclusion
With proper care, your handmade hardwood epoxy charcuterie board will remain a stunning and functional piece for entertaining. By following these tips—hand washing, regular oiling, and gentle cleaning—you can ensure your board stays as beautiful as the day you bought it, providing long-lasting use for years of gatherings, dinner parties, and family celebrations.