Care Guide

Every piece from Well Made Wood by WahlCraft is hand-turned and finished to be used daily. Treat it kindly and it will serve you for years. Most orders include a small tin of wood butter—a food-safe oil & wax blend perfect for routine upkeep.

Hand-wash only • never soak or dishwasher Dry immediately • store where air can circulate Oil & wax regularly • use the included wood butter Heat & sun • avoid prolonged exposure Natural movement • small shifts are normal

Quick Start

Using the included wood butter

Clean and thoroughly dry the piece.
With a soft cloth, apply a thin coat with the grain.
Let it drink for 15–20 minutes.
Buff dry with a fresh cloth until the surface feels silky, not greasy.

How often? Weekly for heavy-use cutting boards, monthly for bowls & trays, or anytime the surface looks dry.

Boards & Salad Bowls (food-contact)

Wash by hand with mild soap; no soaking.
Dry right away; stand boards on edge so air can circulate.
Refresh with mineral-oil/board-oil, then seal with wood butter.
Avoid cooking oils (can go rancid). If nut allergies are a concern at home, use mineral/board oil.

Trays, Mills & Pens (non-food)

Dust or wipe with a slightly damp cloth; avoid harsh cleaners/solvents.
Mills: never submerge; wipe externals only and keep mechanisms dry.
Pens: polish with a soft cloth; keep away from high heat and pockets with keys.

Deep clean & deodorize (boards)

Sprinkle coarse salt; scrub with half a lemon. Wipe clean, then dry.
For extra sanitation, wipe with 3% hydrogen peroxide, then rinse and dry.
Re-oil and wax afterward.

Care Schedule & Troubleshooting

Suggested maintenance schedule

Use Level	Oil	Wax/Butter	Notes
Daily board	Weekly	Weekly	Stand to dry after each wash.
Regular bowl/tray	Monthly	Monthly	Hand-wash only; quick rinse.
Display/occasional	Every 2–3 months	As needed	Dust; avoid direct sun.

Water spots, fuzz, or a tired finish

Lightly sand with the grain using 320–400 grit, wipe clean, then oil and butter. Small raised fibers (“fuzz”) are normal after first washes and buff out easily.

Cracks & movement

Wood expands and contracts with seasons. Hairline checks can often be stabilized by re-oiling and waxing. Keep away from heaters, sunny windows, and dishwashers. If a larger split appears, contact me with photos—I’ll advise repair options.

What to avoid

Dishwasher, soaking, or microwave.
Bleach, oven cleaners, or heavy solvents.
Prolonged heat or direct sunlight.
Cooking oils as finishes (they can go rancid).

Reminder: If your piece arrived with a tin of wood butter, that’s the best day-to-day care. Need more? Check the shop for refills.

Questions or Repairs

If you ever have an issue or want advice on a stubborn spot, send a message and a photo. I’m happy to help keep your piece looking and working its best.