Caring for your Bamboo Is block
At Bamboo Is, we’ve designed our blocks to be lasting investments, created to enhance the beauty and aesthetic of the kitchen, the most loved room in the home. While beauty is central to our ethos, so too is practicality. Our blocks are not only elegant in form, but intended to be the quiet workhorses of your kitchen - companions to your daily rituals - whether you're a home cook or a professional chef.
With a few simple practices - from daily cleaning to occasional oiling - you can preserve its natural strength and character, allowing it to wear in gracefully while standing up to regular use.
Below, we answer the most common questions we receive about caring for your Bamboo Is block.
Daily Cleaning
- Clear the surface of any food residue, oil, or debris. A scraper or spatula works well for this but avoid steel brushes, as they can damage the surface. Scraping alone will often remove the majority of moisture.
- Using a clean cloth with mild soap and warm water, wipe down the surface thoroughly.
- Rinse the cloth in clean warm water, wring it out, and wipe again to remove any soap residue.
- Dry the block completely with a clean towel. Allow it to air dry fully before storing, always in a dry, well-ventilated space.
Removing Scratches
Minor scratches are easily smoothed out. Simply sand the affected area gently with fine-grit sandpaper (#200), always working in the direction of the grain. If you're working near an edge, feather the sanding into the surrounding area to maintain a smooth contour. Be sure to remove all sanding dust before oiling.
Oiling Your Block
To preserve the finish and prevent drying or splitting, we recommend applying food-grade mineral oil every month or two, or more frequently with heavy use. After cleaning (and sanding, if needed), apply a generous coat of oil and allow it to soak in overnight. In the morning, wipe away any excess.
A dry or dull appearance is a clear sign it’s time to re-oil. However, take care not to over-oil, as this can create buildup over time.
Deep Cleaning (Occasional Use)
- For a deeper clean or to remove lingering odors and stains:
- Sprinkle coarse salt across the block’s surface.
- Cut a lemon in half and use it to scrub the salt into the wood.
- Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes (up to 15 for tougher stains).
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water. Avoid soap unless the block is especially greasy.
- Dry completely with a clean towel, and allow the block to air dry fully before storage.
- This method combines natural acidity and abrasion to refresh your block while maintaining its integrity.
What to Avoid
Rotate your cutting area to ensure even wear. If your block is reversible, flip it occasionally to distribute use.
Avoid prolonged exposure to wet meats or standing liquids (such as brine or blood), which can soften the wood and compromise glued joints.
Do not use razor-edged cleavers or serrated knives, as they may chip or splinter the surface.
Never clean your block with harsh detergents or chemical cleaners, which can damage or discolor the wood.
Do not place your Bamboo Is block in the dishwasher.
Avoid excessive heat or placing hot cookware directly on the surface.
Do not over-oil, your block will absorb what it needs.
Timeless Care for a Timeless Object
With thoughtful care, your Bamboo Is block will remain a beautiful, practical, and sustainable fixture in your kitchen for years to come. Designed to age with grace, its character will deepen over time, becoming not just a tool, but part of the story of your home.
Explore our full range of bamboo kitchen essentials here.