Natural hardwood beautifully complements kitchen fixtures and floors, which is why they are so popular. If your kitchen has a wooden surface, don't forget the importance of completely slaughtering the kitchen countertop after each use, because the wood is naturally porous and absorbs the smell of bacteria and food. The more open the wood, the more porous it is. The oak is at the end of the open texture of the scales, while the maple is at the end of the coarser grain.
A mild soap, such as a liquid detergent mixed with water, cleans the slaughter block well. You can also use a solution of bleach and water to help prevent bacteria. Just mix 1 tablespoon of bleach with 1 gallon of water. This is very effective if the solution is kept in a spray bottle; it is only necessary to spray and wipe the wood after each use. One thing you shouldn't use on wooden countertops is a scrub cleanser like Comet.
The wooden countertops intended for use as cutting surfaces are made of penetrating oil, usually some type of mineral oil. In order to maintain this smoothness and keep the wood stain resistant, you should apply a non-toxic oil every few months. USP grade mineral oil is the best; it is the cheapest food grade oil available at local pharmacies. Vegetables or olive oil should not be used; it will become rancid. Heat the oil a little before applying it with a soft cloth and then wipe it in the direction of the texture. Allow the oil to soak for four to six hours, then wipe off any excess oil that has not been soaked.
What about the spills and marks that seem to be marked on the wood? How do you get rid of the stains on the older butcher's countertop? You can continue to polish and reseal the surface. But before you do this, give it a try: apply some salt to the mark and then scrub the wood with a cut in half. Let the wood stay overnight and rinse with water. For deeper stains, wipe with 3% hydrogen peroxide and an aqueous solution.
If you decide to sand and reseal, consider using one of the professional alternatives to mineral oil. Wood sealants designed for food surfaces can be found at many woodworking suppliers. Look for products called Salad Bowl Finish; these are approved for non-toxic food contact on countertops and cutting boards and require less maintenance. Enjoy your clean new countertops.
Orignal From: Kitchen Cleaning Tips: Cleaning Slaughter Block Countertops
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