Butcher Blocks Buying Guide

Buying A Butcher Block is Your Best Bet

If you’re in the market for something a little more heavy duty than just your basic cutting board, then you are in need of a butcher block, a thick piece of assembled wood that can be used as a chopping block, counter or table top, or as a cutting board. First developed by butchers in the 1800s, the butcher block is now commonly used in the home, and is known for its incredible durability as well as its distinctive style.

Size and Function

The first thing you should consider when you’re buying a butcher block is how big you want it to be, as well as if you want to use it as a cutting board or as a counter or table top. If you’re pining for a countertop butchers block, it should only be considered when installing a new counter or during renovations.

Are you hoping to buy a portable butcher block? If you want to use the butcher block as a cutting board, taking it out when you need to carve meat and then storing it while it’s not in use,  remember that as a rule, butcher blocks are quite heavy. Keep that in mind, as you’ll have to lift it every time you want to use it.

A butcher block cart or island might be the most convenient option, because they are mobile when attached to casters, and they provide plenty of surface area to work with. If you need additional space, then look for a butcher block with a drop-leaf that can extend for extra room, and then be put back in place when it’s no longer needed.

John Boos Butcher Blocks

If you want to ensure that you’re getting a quality butcher block, look no further than John Boos butcher blocks. Boos butcher blocks are known for their quality blocks, so if you want the best that’s the first place to look.

Cleaning

Before you buy a butcher block, know that a good deal of maintenance is required to keep everything clean and sanitary. Because butcher blockers are made from wood, food and liquid can leak into the wood where bacteria can grow. Butcher blocks are also susceptible to water damage and stain damage if you let the water and other liquids sit on the block for too long.

Quick cleaning is key, and it’s important that you protect your butcher block with mineral oil on a regular basis, about every month or so. A coating of polyurethane will give you a protective sealant, but remember not to oil a butcher block that has been sealed with polyurethane.

For daily cleaning, a thorough wiping with a cloth and soap should do the trick.

Stability and Durability

The great thing about butcher blocks is that even after they have sustained a ton of nicks and marks, they can easily be sanded down and refinished, giving you a new looking block with minimal effort. Combined with the thickness, you’ll have a great looking butcher block for years and years without any hassle.