It’s time to throw away your plastic cutting boards. Yes, I said it. They slip and slide all over the place and always have to be replaced. If you’re looking for wood cutting boards, you’re finally getting serious about your recipe prep, and you’ve come to the right place!

For me, cutting boards are serious talk because they actually affect more than just how you chop; they affect your other kitchen utensils and your kitchen as a whole. Poor-quality boards affect your knives, your food, and, of course – your aesthetic. Wooden boards are something you can keep with you for generations because they are built to handle whatever your kitchen throws at them.

Let’s get to it with a little more info and some of my favorite cutting board recommendations!

Why Wooden Cutting Boards Rise Above the Rest

1. Knife-Friendly

You're in the kitchen, you've got your blade, and you're ready to tackle those veggies. What's the secret sauce to keeping your knives sharp and ready for action? Surprisingly, your wooden cutting board. Unlike plastic or bamboo boards, wood absorbs some of the impact to keep your knives sharper for longer.

2. Durability

If you're looking for a cutting board that can stand the test of time, wooden ones are your go-to. With a little love and care (I’m talking regular oiling), wooden cutting boards can last for years, maybe even decades. These bad boys are built tough, and they won't warp or crack, no matter how busy you get in the kitchen. Yes, wooden cutting boards are an investment, but as you keep replacing worn plastic boards, the expenses start to equal out.

3. Naturally Fight Bacteria

We all want our kitchens to be clean. And no one wants the family or guests getting sick because of our kitchen. It’s a great thing wooden cutting boards don’t grow bacteria (like your old plastic ones) – they actually fight bacteria and prevent cross-contamination! They have natural antibacterial properties that put a stop to germ growth. Sometimes, we don’t clean our kitchen gadgets perfectly, but with a wooden cutting board, you have nothing to worry about! Note: avoid oak cutting boards, as this is not true of this particular wood type.

4. All the Aesthetics

Let's talk style, my friends. Wooden cutting boards make you feel like Joanna Gaines on a re-run of Fixer Upper. Plastic cutting boards? You hide those in the cabinets and hope no one ever finds them. Wooden cutting boards? Now, we put those on display. There are so many different types of wood to choose from, each with its unique grain patterns and colors. They add a touch of elegance and warmth to your countertop, turning your kitchen into an Instagram-worthy shot.

5. Low Maintenance, High Rewards

Taking care of wooden cutting boards is a breeze. Just a little mineral oil now and then, a quick wash with mild soap and warm water, and voila! They'll stay in tip-top shape. No fuss, no hassle. Plastic boards may have their perks, but they demand more attention than a needy cat. Wooden cutting boards? They're the low-maintenance pals you've been looking for.

Choosing Your Wood Type – What Are the Pros and Cons?

Now that we know why wooden cutting boards are the way to go let's talk about wood varieties. Not all board materials are created equal, and different types of wood offer unique characteristics that can impact your cutting board experience. Here are the pros and cons of some popular wood options.

1. Maple - The Heavyweight Champ

Maple wood is the undisputed heavyweight champion of cutting boards. It's dense, durable, and can handle some serious chopping action. Plus, it's gentle on your knives, ensuring they stay in top-notch condition. Note: you won't see softwood like pine as a typical option as it can't take tough love of the kitchen. Also, keep in mind that maple wood can be a bit on the heavy side, so brace yourself if you need to move it around.

2. Walnut - The Dark and Handsome

Walnut cutting boards are the George Clooneys of the kitchen – dark, handsome, and oh-so-charming. They're highly durable, moisture-resistant, and a favorite among chefs. Quality comes at a price, however, and walnut boards can be on the expensive side. But trust me, it's an investment worth making.

3. Teak - The Moisture Maverick

Teak wood is your moisture-resistant solution. It's durable, resistant to warping, and easy on the eyes. To maintain teak cutting boards' water resistance and appearance, they require regular oiling.

4. Cherry - The Timeless Beauty

Cherry wood brings warmth to your kitchen with its reddish-brown hue. It's a classic choice and relatively lightweight, making it a versatile option. It's a bit softer than some other woods, so it might show some marks over time.

5. Acacia - The Affordable Stunner

Acacia wood is a budget-friendly option with a beautiful grain pattern. It's sturdy, can take some love, and adds a touch of rustic charm to your kitchen. The quality of acacia wood cutting boards can vary depending on the source and manufacturer. Some lower-quality acacia boards may have inconsistencies in grain patterns and construction, so it's important to choose a reputable brand when purchasing.

Best Wood Cutting Board Reviews: Let's Get Chopping!

Now that we've covered the why and the wood, it's time to check out some of my favorite wooden cutting boards on the market. I'll give you the lowdown on their features, pros, and cons so you can pick the perfect cutting board for your kitchen.

1. Viking Acacia Wood Carving Board with Juice Groove

Simple, practical, and easy on the wallet. The Viking Acacia Wood Carving Board is a versatile addition to any kitchen. Crafted from durable acacia wood, it features convenient juice grooves to catch drips and keep your countertop clean. This reversible cutting board offers ample space for slicing and dicing, making it perfect for your next kitchen adventure.

Pros:

• Comes with a limited lifetime warranty, which means the company truly trusts in the durability of their product.

Cons:

• To keep this beauty in top shape, it may require a little TLC in the form of regular oiling.

2. Anolon Teak and Marble Cutting Board, 19.5-Inch x 8-Inch

We love a good teak and marble combo. This one has all the aesthetics for the counter of a modern kitchen. The Anolon Teak and Marble Cutting Board combines the durability of teak wood with the sleekness of a marble accent. This board goes flawlessly from chopping to serving and is a perfect choice to lay out your next charcuterie board.

Pros:

• Incredibly budget-friendly when it comes to teak cutting boards. Do yourself a favor and grab this one now.

Cons:

• While the marble accent adds elegance, it can be more susceptible to chipping, scratches, or stains if not handled with care.

3. Cangshan Thomas Keller End Grain American Walnut Cutting Board

Crafted from top-notch American walnut, the Cangshan Thomas Keller Cutting Board is a heavyweight in the kitchen. The end-grain board enhances durability and resistance to wear and tear. This board's exceptional craftsmanship makes it a beautiful addition to your kitchen.

Pros:

• This board has a huge work surface, 12-inches by 18-inches to be exact.

Cons:

• Be prepared to open your wallet wide because quality comes at a cost.

4. Viking Acacia 20" Reversible Butcher Block Prep/Carving Board

If you need more chopping space, the Viking Acacia 20" Reversible Butcher Block is the best cutting board for you. This large board offers ample room for meal preparation, and its reversible design provides added convenience. Crafted from durable acacia wood, it's designed to withstand heavy kitchen use.

Pros:

• One side of the board features three one-cup indents. This is perfect for measuring one cup of onion or for using the cutting board as a unique serving tray.

Cons:

• Heavyweight and requires regular oiling to stay in peak condition.
• Not dishwasher-safe.

5. Viking 22" Olive Wood Serving Paddle Board with Bark Edge

The Viking 22" Olive Wood Serving Paddle Board is a unique and eye-catching addition to your kitchen. Crafted from olive wood and featuring a natural bark edge, it's perfect for serving cheese, charcuterie, and appetizers. While not ideal for heavy chopping, it adds a rustic and natural touch to your culinary presentations. And if you’re looking for something more “one-of-a-kind,” the natural bark edge on these boards is exactly that – no one board looks the same and is totally unique to your kitchen.

Pros:

• Perfect for both chopping and serving.

Cons:

• It's not your go-to choice for heavy-duty chopping.
• It requires a little extra care to prevent cracks and drying out.

Let’s Get Chopping

It’s easy to see why wooden cutting boards have kicked the old plastic ones to the curb. They protect your knives, last for years, keep them clean, and add simplistic beauty to your kitchen. So, go ahead, choose the wooden cutting board that speaks to your kitchen soul, and let the chopping, slicing, and dicing adventures begin!

Still not sure what board is perfect for your home? Contact a Curated Kitchen Expert to get more expert advice on what can last the longest, handle lots of love, work with your budget, or simply match your aesthetic. And remember, stop using plastic cutting boards! (Just thought I’d hammer that one more time).