How to Clean Wooden Countertops

• Cleaning butcher block: Use mild dishwashing liquid dissolved in water to clean butcher block. Vinegar, lemon juice, and other mildly acidic cleansers may remove stains or deodorize wooden surfaces. Use a cutting board when cutting on a wooden countertop, as small nicks in the surface allow bacteria to grow.
• Maintaining butcher block: Most modern wooden countertops have a durable finish that protects wood and needs very little maintenance. Oiled countertops, though, should be re-oiled about once per month. Use food-grade mineral oil, and rub it in with the grain. Never use cooking oils or animal fat to oil wooden countertops—these oils may become rancid.
• Removing stains from butcher block: Protect all wooden surfaces, including wooden countertops, from standing water and other liquids. Use vinegar or lemon juice to remove stains from wooden countertops, or sand lightly with fine-grit sandpaper and then re-oil.