How to Remove Cutting Board Scratches

Introduction

Repairing the scratches on a wooden cutting board is a repair most people can do at home. This step-by-step guide will show how to restore a scratched wooden cutting board and make it look newer.

The steps in this guide will include cleaning, sanding, and adding oil to the board. Please be careful and stay alert when using sandpaper. Sandpaper is rough on the surface and can lead to skin damage. Most people have experience using sandpaper so there shouldn't be any serious injuries.

Take note that oils used for wood maintenance and cooking oils are not the same! If you oil your cutting board with cooking oil, the oil may go rancid. Instead, look for food-grade mineral oil. Paraffin oil is a subtype of mineral oil. Always make sure the oil is food-grade. You may find such oils at department stores, cookware stores, and even pharmacies or hardware stores.

(For more on the subject, read Why Mineral Oil Belongs in Every Kitchen)

What you need

Step 1 How to Remove Cutting Board Scratches

How to Remove Cutting Board Scratches, How to Remove Cutting Board Scratches: step 1, image 1 of 1

Thoroughly wash the cutting board with warm water and gentle dish soap.
Rinse the cutting board to make sure all the soap is removed.

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Step 2

Pat the cutting board dry with a towel.
Allow the cutting board to completely air dry.

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Step 3

Use a fine grit sandpaper (220-grit) and gently sand the scratched sections of the board.
Use even pressure until the scratches disappear.

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Step 4

Remove any dust or residue using a damp towel.
Make sure the cutting board is completely clean and dry before moving on to the next step.

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Step 5

Pour a generous amount of food-safe oil onto the surface of the board.
The amount will vary depending on the size of the board.
Allow the oil to soak into the cutting board overnight.
Wipe off any excess oil.
If there are still scratches visible on the cutting board, repeat all steps if necessary.