When selecting a cutting board for your kitchen, the choices can be overwhelming. You may wonder whether a wood or plastic cutting board is better for knives. As a chef and home cook, I have used both cutting boards extensively over the years. Let me share my experience and provide a step-by-step guide to help you decide whether a wood or plastic cutting board is better for your knives.
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Is wood or plastic cutting board better for knives? 2023
Wood cutting boards are better for knives as they are softer than plastic and won’t dull the blade as quickly. However, plastic cutting boards are more affordable, easier to clean, and more durable than wood cutting boards.
Wood vs. Plastic Cutting Boards- The Basics
Wood cutting boards are made of natural materials, such as hardwood or bamboo, whereas plastic cutting boards are made of synthetic materials, such as polyethylene or polypropylene.
Both types of cutting boards have their advantages and disadvantages.
Wood cutting boards are aesthetically pleasing and have natural antimicrobial properties, but they need more maintenance and can be more expensive.
Plastic cutting boards are durable, easy to clean, and affordable, but they can be hard on your knives and may not last as long.
The Impact on Your Knives on cutting boards
Now, let’s talk about how your choice of cutting board can impact the performance of your knives. One of the most important factors to consider is how the cutting board affects the sharpness of your knives.
When you use a knife on a cutting board, the blade comes into contact with the board’s surface. It can cause the blade to become dull over time, especially if the cutting board’s surface is hard or rough.
Wood Cutting Boards and Knife Sharpness
Wood cutting boards are better for knives because they are softer and more forgiving than plastic cutting boards. The surface of a wood cutting board is also more porous, which helps absorb the impact of the blade and reduces the stress on the blade edge.
Wood cutting boards can also be sanded down or refinished to remove any scratches or grooves caused by the knife. It can help extend the life of your cutting board and prevent any damage to your knives.
Must Read: How to Get Knife Marks Out of Wood Cutting Board
Plastic Cutting Boards and Knife Sharpness
Plastic cutting boards, on the other hand, are harder and less forgiving than wood cutting boards. The surface of a plastic cutting board is also smoother, which can cause more friction and wear on your knife blade.
While plastic cutting boards are more affordable than wood cutting boards, they may need to be replaced more frequently due to the damage caused to your knives.
Check: Is Acacia Wood Good For Butcher Blocks? & Is Hevea Wood Good for Countertops?
Is it important to maintain plastic and wood cutting boards?
Whether you choose a wood or plastic cutting board, it’s important to properly maintain it to ensure that it lasts as long as possible and doesn’t damage your knives.
Wood Cutting Board Maintenance
To maintain a wood cutting board, it’s important to oil it regularly with food-grade mineral oil. It helps to protect the wood from moisture and prevent it from drying out and cracking. It also helps to maintain the natural antimicrobial properties of the wood.
To clean a wood cutting board, use a mixture of soap and water and scrub the surface with a sponge or brush. Rinse the board thoroughly and dry it with a clean towel.
Plastic Cutting Board Maintenance
To maintain a plastic cutting board, wash it with soap and water and dry it with a clean towel. Plastic cutting boards are also dishwasher safe, which can cause them to warp or crack over time.
Wood or Plastic Cutting Board- Which one is better?
Whether to use a wood or plastic cutting board comes down to personal preference and your cooking habits.
If you want to invest in a high-quality wood cutting board and take the time to properly maintain it, it can be a great choice for preserving the sharpness of your knives and providing a beautiful surface for your food preparation.
However, if you’re looking for a more affordable and low-maintenance option, a plastic cutting board may be better for you.
Remember, there are other factors to consider when choosing a cutting board, such as the size and shape of the board, as well as its antimicrobial properties. Some plastic cutting boards are designed with antimicrobial agents to prevent the growth of bacteria, while some wood cutting boards have natural antimicrobial properties.
The most important factor is choosing a cutting board that you feel comfortable using and that meets your specific needs in the kitchen.
Final words
Choosing between a wood or plastic cutting board is not simple. Wood cutting boards are generally better for preserving the sharpness of your knives and have natural antimicrobial properties. But they also need more maintenance and can be more expensive. Plastic cutting boards are affordable, easy to clean, and durable, but they can cause more wear and tear on your knives and may not last as long. No matter what cutting board you choose, proper maintenance and care will ensure that it lasts as long as possible and provides a safe and hygienic surface for your food preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are plastic cutting boards more hygienic than wood cutting boards?
Plastic cutting boards are more hygienic than wood because they are non-porous and easier to sanitize.
Which type of cutting board is more suitable for cutting specific foods, such as meat or vegetables?
Using a separate cutting board for raw meat is recommended to prevent cross-contamination. Plastic cutting boards are easier to clean and sanitize, making them a good choice for cutting meat.
Can a plastic cutting board damage the blade of my kitchen knives over time?
Plastic cutting boards are gentler on knives than wood, as they are less likely to cause nicks or dulling.
