FAQ: Cutting Boards

  • Cutting boards may appear simple, but in the world of Japanese knives, they play a vital role in protecting both your blade and your food. The right board extends the life of your knife, preserves its sharpness, and keeps your kitchen safe and efficient.

    Many cooks often wonder how to keep a cutting board from warping, whether wood or plastic is better for Japanese knives, and how to maintain hygiene without damaging either the board or the blade. These are not small details. A cutting board is not just a surface — it is the stage on which your knife performs.

    A poor choice in material can dull even the finest edge, while the right board allows the knife to glide effortlessly, honoring the craftsmanship that Sakai artisans have refined for over six centuries. By learning how to choose and care for a cutting board, you are not just protecting your tools — you are preserving the spirit of your cooking.

    This guide will show you how to maintain balance between knife and board, avoid common mistakes, and ensure that both your cutlery and your cuisine remain at their very best.

FAQ About Cutting Boards

Q1. Can I use both sides of my cutting board?

Yes—if both sides are made of the same material. Rotating sides helps reduce stress on the board and prevents long-term warping.

Q2. Does the type of knife affect which cutting board I should use?

Not directly. It’s less about the steel and more about your cutting style. For heavy chopping or pounding, avoid delicate wooden boards and instead use plastic or softer synthetic boards designed for high-impact work. Wooden boards are best reserved for slicing and precision cutting.

Q3. My cutting board warped—can I fix it?

Sometimes. Minor warping on wooden boards may be corrected by planing or sanding the surface. However, warping can also indicate deeper structural issues. It’s best to consult your retailer or the manufacturer for advice. Consistent care—wiping dry and storing properly—is the best prevention.

Q4. There’s mold on my cutting board. What should I do?

For plastic boards, cleaning with diluted bleach and a thorough scrub usually removes mold effectively. For wooden boards, bleach should not be used, as it strips natural oils from the wood. Instead, mold can be removed by gently sanding or polishing the surface.

Q5. My cutting board is turning black. Is that normal?

Yes, this is especially common with wooden boards. For plastic boards, bleach usually restores the surface, while wooden boards can be refreshed by sanding or filing. In open kitchens, some chefs even choose black cutting boards because they conceal stains, though regular cleaning remains essential.

Q6. Can I sun-dry my cutting board?

Direct sunlight is not recommended. Rapid temperature changes and ultraviolet rays can cause wood to warp or crack. The safest approach is to wipe the board thoroughly and dry it indoors in a cool, well-ventilated space

Q7. My board has deep scratches—should I be worried?

Yes. Deep scratches can harbor bacteria and may even pose a risk of injury. To restore a safe surface, consider professional resurfacing, or sand and polish the board at home on a regular basis.

Q8. Is pouring boiling water on a board safe?


Occasionally pouring boiling water on a wooden board can help disinfect it, but frequent use may lead to warping and cracks. For plastic boards, boiling water should be avoided entirely, as it causes irreversible deformation.

Q9. Can I bleach my cutting board?

Bleach is safe for plastic boards. Wooden boards, however, should not be bleached because it removes natural protective oils. Instead, rubbing the surface with coarse salt or lemon and rinsing thoroughly is a safer method for wood.

Q10. How often should I disinfect my cutting boards?

Disinfecting regularly is highly recommended. A simple alcohol spray applied daily is effective for both wood and plastic. Stronger treatments such as bleach are not necessary every day but should be included periodically in your routine to ensure hygiene.

Before Using a Cutting Board

A well-chosen, well-cared-for cutting board protects your knife and keeps your kitchen hygienic. Learn how to prepare and maintain it before every use.

Before Using a Cutting Board

Daily Care of a Cutting Board

Like knives and whetstones, cutting boards need regular care. Because they touch every type of food, hygiene is vital, and issues like scratches or warping can shorten their life. By learning how to prevent and manage these problems, you can keep your board clean, safe, and long-lasting.

Daily Care of a Cutting Board

The Soul of Craftsmanship

  • A Cutting Board Is More Than Just a Surface—It Protects the Soul of Your Knife

    For us traditional craftsmen, a cutting board is not just a stage for food—it is a silent partner that determines how long your knife can shine.

  • Hard boards or thin plastics may dull or even damage the edge, while soft woods help preserve its sharpness. Choosing the right cutting board is an act of respect toward your knife, and ultimately, toward your cooking.

  • Every time you prepare ingredients, remember: you’re not only cutting food—you’re protecting the life of your knife. This small awareness keeps both your tools and your craft alive for years to come.
Sakai Traditional Craftsmen Collection

KIREAJI's Three Promises to You

  • japanese_knife_made_in_Sakai

    1. Forged in the Legacy of Sakai

    From Sakai City—Japan’s renowned birthplace of professional kitchen knives—each blade is crafted by master artisans with over six centuries of tradition. Perfectly balanced, enduringly sharp, and exquisitely finished, every cut carries the soul of true craftsmanship.

  • 2. Thoughtful Care for Everyday Use

    Every knife includes a hand-fitted magnolia saya for safe storage. Upon request, we offer a complimentary Honbazuke final hand sharpening—giving you a precise, ready-to-use edge from day one.

  • 3. A Partnership for a Lifetime

    A KIREAJI knife is more than a tool—it is a lifelong companion. With our bespoke paid aftercare services, we preserve its edge and beauty, ensuring it remains as precise and dependable as the day it first met your hand.