The butchers block is a beautiful and very functional item that is ideal for any kitchen counter top.
They are a popular item and people originally began using them as a way to protect their counter top from scarring and scrapes from the use of sharp knives when cutting meats and vegetables.
The beauty of this cutting block will remain for a very long time if it is properly maintained.
There are many reasons butchers block is used as a counter top.
Wood is much less expensive than traditional granite or marble counter tops.
The material of a wood counter top is also more versatile than marble or granite because you can leave it in its natural state, stain it or paint it any color you want to so it will match the colors in your kitchen.
If you have a contemporary style kitchen, your new butchers block can be made with sharp, clean edges and a highly polished finish.
A block that can also have a distressed look so they can easily fit into a kitchen that is designed in a more rustic decor.
Depending on the finish of your new block will determine the way you will need to maintain it and keep it clean and sanitized.
For example blocks left with a natural wood finish need to be sealed in order to protect the porous surface from being able to absorb food odors, becoming stained with liquids from meats and juices and germ free.
If you season the butchers block properly and seal the surface you will only have to maintain it once a month or so.
To season a wood block apply a generous amount of mineral oil to the surface, allow it to sit for a minimum of an hour and then thoroughly wipe it off with a clean cloth and mile detergent.
It is important that you remember to never use abrasive cleansers or harsh chemicals when cleaning your butchers block cheese board.
There may be times that your block holds in odors and the best way to get rid of the odor is to soak the area that smells with pure lemon juice for about 15 minutes or so, then wipe it up.
The odor will be gone.
You can also protect the surface by not sitting hot pans on it.
With the proper care and maintenance of your butchers block you will be able to enjoy using it for quite a few years.
They are a popular item and people originally began using them as a way to protect their counter top from scarring and scrapes from the use of sharp knives when cutting meats and vegetables.
The beauty of this cutting block will remain for a very long time if it is properly maintained.
There are many reasons butchers block is used as a counter top.
Wood is much less expensive than traditional granite or marble counter tops.
The material of a wood counter top is also more versatile than marble or granite because you can leave it in its natural state, stain it or paint it any color you want to so it will match the colors in your kitchen.
If you have a contemporary style kitchen, your new butchers block can be made with sharp, clean edges and a highly polished finish.
A block that can also have a distressed look so they can easily fit into a kitchen that is designed in a more rustic decor.
Depending on the finish of your new block will determine the way you will need to maintain it and keep it clean and sanitized.
For example blocks left with a natural wood finish need to be sealed in order to protect the porous surface from being able to absorb food odors, becoming stained with liquids from meats and juices and germ free.
If you season the butchers block properly and seal the surface you will only have to maintain it once a month or so.
To season a wood block apply a generous amount of mineral oil to the surface, allow it to sit for a minimum of an hour and then thoroughly wipe it off with a clean cloth and mile detergent.
It is important that you remember to never use abrasive cleansers or harsh chemicals when cleaning your butchers block cheese board.
There may be times that your block holds in odors and the best way to get rid of the odor is to soak the area that smells with pure lemon juice for about 15 minutes or so, then wipe it up.
The odor will be gone.
You can also protect the surface by not sitting hot pans on it.
With the proper care and maintenance of your butchers block you will be able to enjoy using it for quite a few years.
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