How to Sand and Finish a Wooden Cutting Board for a Smooth, Food-Safe Surface (60–320 Grit Sequence)

Wooden cutting boards are a staple in many kitchens, but over time, they can develop knife marks, stains, and a rough surface. Proper sanding and finishing not only restores their beauty but also creates a hygienic, food-safe surface. In this guide, we’ll walk through a complete process—from initial leveling with Grit 60 to a silky smooth finish with Grit 320.

Why Sanding is Important for Cutting Boards

Cutting boards see daily use and constant contact with moisture. Sanding removes deep cuts, smooths the surface, and eliminates raised grain that can trap food particles. A well-sanded board is easier to clean and more resistant to bacteria.

Tools & Materials

• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Multiple grits of sandpaper
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Food-safe mineral oil or beeswax finish
• Soft cloths for applying finish
• Protective gear: mask, goggles

Best Grit Sequence for Cutting Board Refinishing

• Grit 60 — Removing deep knife marks and leveling the surface
• Grit 150 — Refining after coarse sanding
• Grit 220 — Pre-finish smoothing
• Grit 320 — Final sanding for a silky feel

Step-by-Step Process

1. Initial leveling. Start with Grit 60 (10-pack) to remove deep gouges and uneven spots. Sand with the grain to avoid scratches.
2. Surface refinement. Switch to Grit 150 (25-pack) to smooth the surface and remove coarse sanding marks.
3. Pre-finish smoothing. Use Grit 220 (50-pack) to prepare the surface for finishing.
4. Final sanding. For a premium feel, finish with Grit 320 (100-pack) to create a perfectly smooth surface.
5. Clean the board. Vacuum thoroughly and wipe with a tack cloth to remove dust.
6. Apply finish. Use a soft cloth to rub in food-safe mineral oil or a beeswax blend. Let it soak in, then buff to a sheen.
7. Repeat as needed. For heavily used boards, apply multiple coats for deeper protection.

Special Cases

For end-grain boards, sanding may take longer due to the harder surface. Use extra care to maintain a flat surface.

Pro Tips for Success

• Always sand both sides of the board to maintain balance and prevent warping.
• Reapply oil regularly to keep the board conditioned.
• Avoid soaking the board in water—clean with a damp cloth instead.

Aftercare

• Reapply mineral oil every 3–4 weeks or when the board looks dry.
• Sanitize with a vinegar solution or lemon and salt for deep cleaning.
• Store the board upright to allow air circulation.

FAQs

• Can I use coconut oil? Avoid edible oils that can go rancid; stick with food-safe mineral oil or beeswax blends.
• Do I need to sand every time I oil? No—light sanding is only needed if the surface becomes rough.

Watch & Learn

By following this grit progression—from Grit 60 (10-pack) to Grit 320 (100-pack)—you’ll restore your cutting board to a smooth, safe, and beautiful condition that will serve you for years to come.