Welcome back to our regular readers – and a big hello if this is your first time here! Whether you’ve just had your wooden worktops restored or are looking for tips to keep them looking lovely for years to come, this post is for you. Yes, we’ll talk about the common mistakes with wooden worktops and how to avoid them.
Wooden kitchen worktops are absolutely stunning… warm, natural, and full of character. But they do need a little TLC to keep them in top shape. Over the years, we’ve seen all sorts of damage that people could have avoided with just a few tweaks to the daily routine.
So, let’s walk through some of the most common mistakes people make with their wooden worktops… and how to sidestep them like a pro. But before we read on… check out some amazing worktops we’ve had the honour to restore:
Chopping Directly on the Wood
It might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how often we spot deep knife marks on worktops. Usually it starts with a quick slice of lemon or a sandwich prep session… Before you know it, there’s a whole section of your worktop looking sad.
How to avoid this common mistake on your wooden worktops:
Always use a chopping board… I know. That’s a simple suggestion, but it’s amazing how many people forget to do this! It protects your worktop and your knives… win-win!
Leaving Spills to Soak In
Wood and water are not best friends at all. In fact they actually hate each other (the wood feeling this more than the water)… Whether it’s a splash of wine, a coffee cup ring, or water around the sink… if you leave spills to sit it can cause staining, swelling, or even black spots.
How to avoid the spill mistake on your wooden worktop:
Wipe up spills as soon as you spot them. A quick dry with a tea towel goes such a long way in protecting your wooden worktop.
Using Harsh Cleaning Products
We know how tempting it is to grab the strongest spray under the sink, especially after a messy dinner… but bleach, vinegar, and strong degreasers can really damage the finish of your worktop.
How to avoid this mistake on your wooden worktops:
Stick to mild soaps and lukewarm water for everyday cleaning. A soft cloth is plenty for day-to-day use. And definitely steer clear of anything acidic like lemon or vinegar… they’ll strip the protective finish and leave the wood vulnerable.
Putting Hot Pans Straight Down
Wooden worktops can scorch if you put a hot pan or baking tray down directly… and once that burn is in, it’s not always a simple fix.
How to avoid “burn” mistakes on your wooden worktops:
Use trivets, heat mats or even a folded tea towel to protect your surface from heat damage.
Forgetting to Re-Oil or Maintain the Finish
Just like your wood floors, wooden worktops need a bit of love to keep them looking their best. Over time, the protective oil or sealant can wear away… especially in high-use areas like next to the sink or cooker.
How to avoid the finish wearing away on your wooden worktops:
Top up your finish when water stops beading on the surface. For most kitchens, a light re-oil every few months does the trick… and keeps the wood nourished and protected.
Scrubbing Too Hard
A good scrub might seem really satisfying, especially after baking day… but too much elbow grease can wear down the finish and leave the wood exposed to moisture and dirt.
How to avoid being too hard on your wooden worktops:
Gentle is best! Use a soft sponge or cloth as well as a mild cleaner… no need to go full workout mode.
So, What If the Damage is Already Done?
Don’t worry… you’re not alone! Most wooden worktops we restore have suffered one (or more!) of these common mistakes. The good news is that, in most cases, professional sanding and refinishing can bring them back to life beautifully.
We’ll remove stains, repair damage, and reapply a protective finish that suits your kitchen and your lifestyle.
Thinking About Giving Your Worktops a Fresh Start?
If your wooden worktops are looking a little tired – or you’re just not sure how to care for them… we’re happy to help. Our friendly team is based right here in Cambridgeshire and has years of experience restoring worktops in homes just like yours.
Got a question? Just drop us a message or give us a call… we love a good kitchen chat!
Don’t forget… If yoiu have ANY queries about wood floor or wood worktop restoration, send your queries to us at [email protected] reference “Traceys Blogs Queries” and we will try and answer your questions!
