Hey woodies,

I’m not a woodworker by any means, but figured it could be here to ask about my question. I love and own some wooden kitchen utensils and cutlery, but want to it to last as long as possible. I never put it in the dishwasher, always wash by hand. However I have heard its possible to oil wooden utensils and such to make it last longer, I assume it prevents the water from deteriorating the wood(?)

So my questions are:

  • What oil should I use?
  • Do I use cheap oil?
  • How do I oil them? Apply with paper, or let them sit in oil over time?

Appreciate any tips or tricks to this!

Have a wonderful day 🌻

Edit, thanks for all the answers and advice, I’ll research properly before buying either type of oil.

  • walden
    6•5 months ago

    I melt parafin wax (low heat!) and mix in mineral oil. I can’t remember the ratio but you can find it online. When it cools it has the consistency of soft butter (almost).

    It works exceptionally well for cutting boards. You smear it on and let it sit overnight.

    • TerribleTortoise
      9•5 months ago

      5:1 (mineral oil:wax) To add to the above comment, this is effectively what’s sold as “cutting board wax/oil”.
      Paraffin, soy or bees wax would all be fine. In my experience buying bees wax flakes is the cheapest way to get bees wax, it’s often sold for use in cosmetics.