Restore and Maintain Butcher Block Counter

I decided to try using my counter top as a cutting and prep surface. My butcher block island counter had been stained, so I removed the stain and prepared the surface.

A dark stain remained on the cutting surface.

I started with a planer to remove the top layer of wood. The stain penetrated fairly deeply, so this process allowed me to remove large portions quickly.

The surface was a little rough after planing and in the places with many knots a few gouges remained.

A belt sander with 80 grit paper smoothed the surface. Because there was a snow storm and I have no garage I created a clean room with painters plastic and sealed it off. It was like a sand storm inside, but contained all the dust, keeping the surrounding room spotless.

I hand sanded with a block and a few finer grit papers, then wiped the surface clean with a damp cloth.

I experimented with mineral oil and mineral oil with wax. Both seemed to work well.

Surface in restored condition.

Scrub the surface with a hot soapy water.

Rinse.

Use vinegar to sanitize the surface and let stand for a while.

Make a paste with lemon juice and salt and scrub the wood surface. This helps with odors. Allow to dry overnight.

Remove salt from the surface and wipe clean. Coat with mineral oil.

Time to cook.