What should I seal my butcher's block with?

[ead79]

We just got a kitchen island that has a wooden butcher block top. I'm pretty sure it's not already sealed, as the wood feels a bit rough. DH wiped it off with a damp cloth, then dried it immediately, but I'm thinking it needs to be sealed with something so liquids don't hurt it. Any ideas on what I should use?

Edited to add: we won't be cutting directly on the countertop, we just don't want water to ruin it.

 

[Big V]

They do make an oil product for butcher blocks. I would say any kitchen/ cooking store would have it. Otherwise you can just use mineral oil on it. Rub a light coat on it and let it sit for a while and then wipe it off. You should do this every once in a while to them so they don't dry out.

 

[MrsToad]

A quote from this site: http://www.dannylipford.com/diy-hom...and-oil-butcher-block-for-use-in-the-kitchen/

"Food Grade Mineral Oil: This is the top choice for butcher blocks, and it’s the primary ingredient in commercial sealing products. Look for food grade mineral oil in your local pharmacy – it’s also sold as a laxative – and it’ll be much cheaper in the pharmacy than in the hardware store. Mineral oil will give your butcher block a light honey color."

They also talk about other "food grade" options that add a hint of color to the wood.

 

[bicker]

Don't try to use a substitute! Gotta be food grade...they're not kidding.

 

[wildernesslodgelover]

If you are not going to cut on it, you should use waterlox.

just for an example, check out this thread...

http://ths.gardenweb.com/forums/load/kitchbath/msg0517183910010.html?23

you can do a search on the site I just posted...or search waterlox on google.

We are doing BB countertops on our perimeter counters, and a funky, veiny granite on our island.