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March 01, 2024 5 min read
Choosing the right tools can make all the difference in your cooking experience. One of the fundamental choices you'll face is selecting the right cutting board. A wood or plastic cutting board are the two main options, each with its own set of advantages. Learn everything you need to know to make an informed decision!
Whether you’re a seasoned at-home chef or simply enjoy cooking for your family, one often-over looked tool plays an important role: the cutting board.
The choice between wood and plastic cutting boards can bring up a lot of questions: Is there a major difference between the two? Which one is better? It’s a decision that can make or break your cooking experience, from aesthetics to knife maintenance and even food safety.
A plastic cutting board is practical, affordable, and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance. Wood cutting boards, with their natural beauty and knife-friendly surface, offer up timeless charm and functionality. And while the wood vs plastic cutting board debate is often discussed, we’re firm believers in the fact that you can — and should — use both! We’re breaking down the reasons why so you can make the best decision for your home.
Here at Words with Boards, we’re passionate about our handcrafted wooden cutting boards. Each one is made with care and attention to detail, and our American hardwoods are sustainably sourced. You can also personalize your board to make it more meaningful.
There are several other advantages to using a wooden board, as well as some other things to keep in mind when choosing one.
While we do think wood boards are better than plastic — that’s our unofficial stance in the wood vs plastic cutting board argument — that’s not to say that you should toss all of your plastic boards. Each have their place in your kitchen, and you’ll likely get a lot of use out of both.
As with wood cutting boards, plastic cutting boards have their own set of advantages, plus many other things to consider.
At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preference and what you plan to use your board for. If you value aesthetics, wood may be your top choice (and we can’t help but agree!). Wooden cutting boards are also gentler on knives — and the environment.
In terms of specific kitchen tasks, wood is best for meat, poultry, vegetables, and fruit. Plastic may be preferred for seafood as it doesn’t harbor odors like wood does. Again, choose what works best for you and your cooking habits!
Both plastic and wood are sanitary — if you keep them clean.
That said, plastic cutting boards are often considered slightly more hygienic because they have a non-porous surface that is less likely to harbor bacteria. Now, wood cutting boards can be just as safe with regular cleaning and oiling to prevent moisture absorption.
They are more prone to developing deep knife marks and scratches over time, which can be challenging to clean.
While they are durable, they are not as knife-friendly as wood, which could potentially cause your knives to dull. Plus, plastic boards aren’t as stylish as wood, and aren’t as eco-friendly and are often non-biodegradable.
A recent study shows Microplastics can be of concern when chopping on plastic cutting boards as they will end up in the food you eat.
Choosing between a wood or plastic cutting board boils down to your personal preferences, cooking habits, and priorities. Both have their advantages, and with proper care and maintenance, can serve you well in the kitchen.
Whether you opt for the timeless elegance of wood or the practicality of plastic, make sure to prioritize hygiene and food safety in all that you do. Happy cooking!
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