There are pros and cons to each material type of toxin-free cutting board options. Let’s go through each so you can decide what’s best for you.
Solid wood cutting boards are a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike due to their durability, knife-friendliness, and aesthetic appeal. Wood, especially hardwoods like maple and walnut, has natural antimicrobial properties that help reduce bacterial growth. Additionally, wood absorbs impact from knives, keeping blades sharper for longer. However, wood requires more maintenance, including regular oiling to prevent drying and cracking. It is also prone to absorbing moisture, which can lead to warping or bacterial buildup if not properly cleaned and dried. Unlike other materials, wooden boards should not be submerged in water or placed in the dishwasher.
Stainless steel cutting boards offer a sleek, modern alternative that is highly durable and easy to clean. They are non-porous, meaning they don’t harbor bacteria, and they can withstand high heat and harsh cleaning agents, including dishwashers. However, stainless steel is extremely hard, which can quickly dull knives and make cutting less comfortable. Additionally, the lack of texture can cause food to slip, increasing the risk of accidents. Some options below have anti-slip backings. While they are excellent for tasks like cutting raw meat due to their hygienic properties, they may not be ideal for everyday chopping of vegetables and herbs.
Glass cutting boards are another hygienic option, as they are completely non-porous and resistant to stains and odors. They are also easy to clean and dishwasher-safe. However, they are widely considered the worst option for preserving knife edges, as the hard surface quickly dulls blades and can even cause them to chip. Additionally, glass cutting boards canYO be noisy and may shatter or crack under heavy use. While they can be useful as a serving board or for tasks like rolling dough, they are not the best choice for serious food prep.
Ultimately, the best cutting board material depends on personal preference and cooking needs, with wood being ideal for most everyday use, stainless steel for sanitation and durability, and glass primarily for aesthetic or specialty purposes.
Wood Cutting Boards
Greener Chef Bamboo Cutting Board $42.99 3-Piece Set (also available individually)
Materials:
Organic Bamboo
Finish:
Unfinished
Charles Long Woods Maple Cutting Board (Etsy Link) $45 – $85 depending on size
Materials:
Maple wood
Finish:
Tung Oil
Rugged Woodworking Maple Cutting Board (Etsy Link) $55.99 – $93.99 depending on size
Materials:
Maple wood
Finish:
Organic fractionated coconut oil, carnauba wax, and local (Utah) beeswax.
Rustic Flitch Olive Wood Cutting Board (Etsy link) $20.32 – $81.32
Materials:
Olive wood
Finish:
Hemp oil
JNE Hinoki Reversible Cutting Board $54.95 (Amazon link)
Materials:
Cypress wood
Finish:
Unfinished
Finishing Oils and Waxes:
Bio-Based Cutting Board Conditioner $29.98 (Amazon link)
Ingredients: coconut oil, beeswax, carnauba wax.
Rhoose Point Remedies Beeswax Wood Treatment $16.99 (Amazon link)
Ingredients: beeswax, olive oil
Ziruma Beeswax Cutting Board Sealant $18.95 (Amazon link)
Ingredients: beeswax, flax seed oil, lemon essential oil
Stainless Steel Cutting Boards
Billamb Stainless Steel Cutting Board $28.99 (Amazon link)
Mojuoii Stainless Steel Cutting Board $28.99 (Amazon link)
Steelchef Stainless Steel Cutting Board $39.99 (2-pack) (Amazon link)
Glass Cutting Boards
YOPIKUU Tempered Glass Cutting Boards $10.99 – $34.99 (Amazon link)
LANGBOHOS Tempered Glass Cutting Boards $9.99 – $29.99 (Amazon link)
Light in the Dark Tempered Glass Cutting Board $15.99 – $50 (Amazon link)