Butcher Block – Butcher Block Tables and Counter Tops
A butcher block is a thick, unvarnished, unsealed surface that allows a bigger cutting surface than a regular cutting board. Use this online source to learn about the many designs and advantages of butcher blocks.
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A butcher block table should be made of hard wood, not stone, glass, or ceramic material. Although these surfaces are often easier to clean, they are also much harder on the knife, making it dull rapidly, and perhaps even causing the blade to chip or break, especially if you use ceramic knives. Oak, cherry, bamboo, and maple butcher blocks are good choices for tough surfaces with enough give to protect your knives.
Butcher block table tops are built tough to be used for food preparation for years. Less expensive items are portable butcher block carts. These are usually not built for the wear and tear that butcher block tables can withstand, but they do have some advantages, like portability and price.
Many people opt to have butcher blocks permanently installed in their homes as a butcher block island or butcher block countertops. These installations are usually more expensive than either a butcher block table or a butcher block cart, but they can add value and beauty to a home. Because butcher block counter tops are not sealed or varnished, they should never be installed next to the sink.
Many people choose a butcher block kitchen table, which has the durability of a butcher block counter top without the cost or permanence. These tables can also be used for casual dining or as a buffet table.
Butcher block tops should be cleaned daily with a damp cloth and mild soap, then thoroughly rinsed and wiped dry. It is important that the butcher block is dried very well to keep the wood from warping or splitting.
After cutting meat or poultry, the butcher block should be cleaned with mild soap and a disinfectant, such as a small amount of bleach. Butcher blocks should also be oiled from time to time to protect it. After cleaning, just use a small amount of mineral oil to the wood, allow it to sit for an hour or so, then clean the block with mild soap, rinse and dry thoroughly.
Wood furniture makers, like Eastern Butcher Block and John Boos & Co. will often have an excellent selection of butcher blocks and cutting boards in various styles for you to choose from.
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