Cutting Board & Wood Conditioner
Food-Safe Mineral Oil and Beeswax Wood Conditioner
A simple food-safe paste for conditioning wooden cutting boards, butcher blocks, utensils, and other unfinished wood. Mineral oil penetrates and helps keep the wood from drying out, while beeswax leaves a smooth, water-resistant protective finish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup food-grade mineral oil (220 g)
- 1/2 cup beeswax pellets or finely grated beeswax
Instructions
- Place the mineral oil and beeswax in a heatproof bowl or jar set over a pan of gently simmering water. Do not heat the beeswax directly over a burner. A double boiler works well.
- Heat gently, stirring occasionally, until the beeswax is completely melted and the mixture is uniform.
- Remove from the heat and carefully pour the warm mixture into a clean jar or tin.
- Let cool uncovered until completely set, about 1 hour, then cover tightly and store at room temperature.
Usage
Apply a small amount to clean, completely dry wood with a soft cloth or paper towel. Rub it into the wood, working with the grain. Let it sit for several hours or overnight, then wipe away any excess and buff with a clean cloth.
Consistency and Ratio
- 1:1 mineral oil to beeswax — Firm, paste-wax consistency; softens quickly with rubbing and leaves a heavier wax finish.
- 2:1 mineral oil to beeswax — Still a firm paste, but easier to spread and buff; a good general-purpose balance and the ratio used in this recipe.
- 3:1 mineral oil to beeswax — Softer conditioner that spreads more easily.
- 4:1 mineral oil to beeswax — Soft board-butter consistency with more oil penetration and less wax buildup.
Other Uses
Suitable for unfinished or oil-finished wooden cutting boards, butcher-block countertops, wooden spoons and utensils, salad bowls, rolling pins, serving boards, charcuterie boards, wooden tool or knife handles, and other bare wood surfaces where a food-safe oil-and-wax finish is appropriate.
Food Safety
Use only food-grade mineral oil on surfaces that contact food. Mineral oil is preferred over ordinary cooking oils because it is stable and does not readily turn rancid.
Storage
Store tightly covered at room temperature in a cool, dry place. If the mixture becomes too firm for your preference, remelt it and blend in a little additional food-grade mineral oil. If it is too soft, remelt it with a little more beeswax.