Butcher block countertops are easy to care for and unique in that you can sand off the top layer to reveal a new countertop.You can use soap and water to clean the surface.Sprinkle baking soda on the area if you want to remove the stain.Sanding the butcher block and applying a layer of oil is a great way to build up a protective layer while also getting rid of the most stubborn stains.
Step 1: To clean food remnants, use a damp rag.
Wet a clean rag or paper towel with water and use it to clean the countertop.It's a good way to clean off light spills.To make sure you don't leave any crumbs, wipe the entire counter down.If you're short on time, this is a great way to clean the butcher block countertop.After using a damp rag, wipe down the counter with a dry towel.
Step 2: For a more thorough cleaning, use dish soap and water.
It's a good idea to clean a rag with dish soap and water to remove spills.If you want to remove soap from the butcher block countertop, use a damp rag and a soapy rag.Once the countertop is clean, use a dry rag or paper towel to dry it.It's a good idea to use dish soap and water for spills.
Step 3: It's a good idea to wipe down the counter.
The butcher block countertop can be used to prepare raw meats or other foods that could cause a problem.Use a damp cloth to remove any crumbs or debris from the countertop.To clean up a dirty area, wipe it down with a rag or paper towel.It's a good idea to use regular white vinegar to clean the butcher block.Wait for the counter to dry naturally or use a clean, dry towel after it's been disinfected.
Step 4: If possible, wipe away potential stains before they get to the wood.
Liquids will soak into the wood quickly and leave a stain if your butcher block doesn't have several layers of oil built up to protect its surface.If liquid or food spills onto the butcher block, wipe it up as soon as possible to prevent it from soaking into the wood.
Step 5: Rub salt and lemon on the counter to remove stains.
Sprinkle salt on the stain if it isn't easy to remove.If you want to remove the stain on the butcher block, you need to squeeze out a little juice from the lemon half and rub the salt into the block.After the stain is gone, use a damp rag to wipe down the area.Any type of salt will work.
Step 6: Baking soda can be used to remove stains.
Baking soda can be applied to stains.Rub the baking soda into the countertop with a damp rag or sponge.After you've scrubbed the first layer, apply another layer of baking soda.After you apply each layer, let the baking soda sit on the butcher block countertop for 10 to 20 minutes for it to soak in.Use a damp rag to wipe the baking soda off the counter.
Step 7: To remove a stain, sand the butcher block surface.
If there's a stain on the top layer of the countertop, remove it.Rub the area using circular motions until the stain is gone.The entire countertop should only be used with coarse-grit sandpaper on the stain.You can use a medium-coarse sandpaper.Since you won't be sanding the entire surface, it's not necessary to use an electric sander on the stain.
Step 8: If you want to smooth out the surface, use a fine-grit sandpaper.
The butcher block should be smooth and even.To remove the stain on the butcher block countertop, use circular motions to smooth out the spot, and then go over the entire countertop to absorb the oil.It's a good idea to use a grit of 180– 220.Sand the counter by hand or use an electric sander.Before you apply the oil, wipe away the dust from the countertop with a damp rag.
Step 9: Using a clean rag, evenly cover the countertop with food-safe oil.
Purchase a food grade mineral oil.If you want to protect the butcher block and build up a resistance to things like stains and scratches, you can use raw linseed oil, walnuts, and almond oil.Apply the oil to the rag and wipe it on the countertop, using small amounts of oil until you've covered the entire surface in a thin, even layer.To make sure the oil gets into the nooks and crevices of the countertop, wipe it with the grain.If you or someone in your household is allergic to nuts, don't use an oil made of nuts.Don't use cooking oils like vegetable or olive oil on the countertop because they will not be able to protect your countertop like food-grade mineral oils.
Step 10: After 30 minutes, wipe away the excess oil.
If you want to know how long the oil has been in the wood, set a timer for 30 minutes.After 30 minutes, use a dry rag and circular motions to wipe the excess oil off the countertop.
Step 11: If the oil is absorbed quickly, apply a second coat.
If the first layer of oil can be soaked into the butcher block, use the rag to apply a second layer over the entire countertop evenly.Let the second coat sit for at least 30 minutes and use circular motions to apply it.After 20–30 minutes, wipe away any excess oil with a rag.If you want to know if the oil absorbs into the wood quickly, pour a drop or two of oil onto the countertop.You don't need another coat if it stays on the surface.A second coat is best if it starts to soak into the wood.