The butchers block is an incredibly important and useful tool for both professional and amateur butchers. It protects work surfaces from unwanted cuts and incisions and helps the butcher make clean and precise cuts.

This makes it vital that the butcher cares for the block as much as he/she will care for the butchers knives used upon it.

Always wash the butchers block after use. Even if you are only chopping something light like cucumber, it is still prudent to apply a thorough wash. Particles from the food cut upon in can linger on the board and could weaken the wood. If these particles get into gaps in the butchers block, they may cause cracks. Scrub hard with an anti-bacterial solution and hot waters. Dry immediately after washing to ensure that the surface is not weakened by the exposure to water.

Wooden butcher blocks can benefit from a varnishing. Use a mineral fish oil to reinforce the surface of the wooden butchers block. This will decrease the likelihood that the butchers block will crack or the surface will break. Lightly warm the oil and apply with a soft cloth in the direction of the grain. Apply five coats, soaking the board in between each. Allow the board to rest for five hours and wipe off any excess oil. Never expose the butchers block to excessive heat. This can weaken the block significantly and make it vulnerable to cuts and incisions. This means that you should be careful where you are placing the block, placing the block near a gas hob may cause it to heat excessively. Plastic butchers blocks in particular can be ruined by the exposure to heat; the block may melt and distort slightly. The block may take a different shape, which may compromise the ability to use it to make clean and precise cuts.

Using the same area of the butchers block can cause it to wear unevenly. Try and use as much of the butchers block as possible. This will extend its lifespan and usability. It may be tempting to use the same areas of the block repeatedly if they are the most efficient and closest to hand; however try to resist this temptation and use the block evenly.

The butchers block can be a long-term partner in the kitchen, staying with you through the preparation of many meals for many years, but only if you treat it properly and with respect.