Why I Swapped My Plastic Cutting Boards for Wood

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When I first started creating a more non-toxic home, I focused on the obvious things like cleaning products and laundry detergent. However, there is another simple swap I almost overlooked, and that is my cutting board.

Previous to this journey, I always used plastic cutting boards because they were inexpensive, lightweight, and easy to throw in the dishwasher. It wasn't until I learned more about how they wear over time that I decided it was time for a change!

The Problem with Plastic Cutting Boards

Every time you slice, chop, or dice on a plastic cutting board, your knife creates tiny grooves in the surface. Over time, those grooves become deeper, making them harder to clean and allowing bacteria to hide inside.

Even more concerning than the bacteria, is the tiny pieces of plastic that can come off the board and into your food with each cut. While research is still ongoing, many people choose to reduce their exposure to microplastics wherever they can, and I certainly felt the need to. Lessening the amount of exposure to microplastics in the kitchen is a great place to start!

Why I chose Wood Instead

A good quality wooden cutting board is durable, beautiful, and can last for many years with proper care!

Some of the reasons I made the switch include:

• Less concern about adding microplastics to our food.

• Naturally durable and gentle on kitchen knives.

• With regular oiling, a wooden board can last for decades.

• It adds a warm, cozy touch to the kitchen that I genuinely love.

Unlike plastic, wood can often be resurfaced with a light sanding if it becomes worn, giving it a much longer lifespan.

Caring for a Wooden Cutting Board

Taking care of a wood cutting board is surprisingly simple!

• Wash it by hand with warm water and a gentle dish soap.

• Dry it immediately instead of letting it soak.

• Condition it every few weeks with a cutting board oil to keep it from drying out or cracking. (I recommend RMP Finishes Cutting Board Oil. It is made from natural plant based ingredients and vegan friendly.)

That's it! It only takes a few extra minutes, but the board will reward you with years of use.

Small Swaps Add Up

You don't have to replace everything in your home kitchen overnight. Building a non-toxic home is about making small, intentional changes over time.

Swapping a plastic cutting board for a wooden one may seem like a tiny step, but it's one more way to reduce unnecessary plastic in your daily routine while creating a kitchen that feels warm, natural, and built to last.

Which Wooden Cutting Board Should You Choose?

One of my favorite things about switching to wood is that there are so many beautiful options. Whether you're looking for something simple and budget-friendly or a handcrafted heirloom piece, there's a wooden cutting board for just about every kitchen and budget.

I recommend looking for hardwoods like maple, walnut, or cherry since they're durable and hold up well with regular use. You can choose a classic rectangular board for everyday meal prep, a large butcher block for bigger cooking projects, or even a decorative board that doubles as a serving tray when you're hosting.

I've linked a few of my favorite wooden cutting boards below, from affordable everyday picks to higher-end options, so you can find one that fits your style and budget!

Budget Friendly

The Royal Craft Wood Wooden Cutting Boards come in a three pack at a great value for the quality.

Best Overall

'The John Boos Chop-N-Slice Series Rectangular Maple Cutting Board, 16"x10"x1" is the perfect starter wood cutting board.

Large Option

The John Boos R-Board Series Rectangular Wooden Maple Cutting Board 24"x18", is a great option for those who have a little more space and want something heavy and durable.

Showstopper

This Sonder Los Angeles Alfred Cutting Board in black walnut end grain is a higher budget option but is beautifully crafted, making it perfect for displaying.

Forever Piece

The gold-standard John Boos CCB Series Maple Cutting Board 24"x18"x2.25" is a 30lb reversible butcher block that is made to last. This is definitely a high price point but it truly is something that could be passed down to your children if taken proper care of.

At the end of the day, this was a simple swap that made a big difference in how I feel about my kitchen. I love knowing that the things I use every day can be chosen with a little more intention.