How to Get Stains & Burns Out of a Butcher Block

Butcher blocks are as decorative as they are useful and add country charm to a kitchen. These kitchen accessories are made of solid wood blocks glued together and will maintain their beauty and usefulness for years, if cared for properly. Changes in humidity and temperature will greatly affect any wood and a butcher block should be oiled occasionally with mineral oil. Liquid should never be allowed to stand on a butcher block for any length of time. Blocks should be washed with disinfectant dish soap and a damp cloth or sponge after every use and dried with a soft cloth. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Scrape the butcher block with the steel scraper or spatula to remove any heavy coating left by foods.

2

Spread salt liberally over the butcher block. Now scrub the block with the natural bristle brush.

3

Scrape and wipe with a damp sponge or cloth to remove the salt.

4

Cover any remaining stains with lemon juice. Rub the juice in and allow it to set for a few minutes. Wipe with a damp sponge or cloth.

5

Sand any remaining stains or burn marks with fine sand paper.

6

Clean the butcher block with mineral spirits to remove the sanding dust.

7

Allow the block to dry completely, then coat generously with mineral oil. Allow the butcher block to absorb the mineral oil completely before you use it again.