5 REASONS TO DITCH PLASTIC CUTTING BOARDS
Emilia @ Square Root StudioWhen it comes to cutting boards, not all are created equal. While plastic boards may seem convenient and budget-friendly, they come with several downsides. End-grain hardwood cutting boards, on the other hand, offer benefits that make them a superior choice for both home cooks and professional chefs. Here's why:
1. Plastic boards harbor bacteria
Plastic cutting boards might appear easy to clean, but over time, they develop deep knife grooves where bacteria can hide. Even with thorough washing, it’s hard to remove these germs completely. Hardwood boards, especially end-grain ones, naturally resist bacteria. The wood’s fibers trap bacteria and pull it beneath the surface, where it eventually dies off, making them a more hygienic option.
You could make an argument that plastic cutting boards can be washed in the dishwasher at high temperatures, while wood cutting boards are not dishwasher safe. And you are perfectly right, wood products should never be placed in the dishwasher. However, studies show that bacteria cannot survive in dry medium for long, so simply handwashing your wood board and then letting it air dry keeps it as clean as the dishwasher would.
2. Durability and food contamination
Plastic boards wear out quickly, or warp. Moreover, plastic cutting boards can shed tiny fragments, especially as they age and wear down. These microplastics often contain BPA (Bisphenol A) or phthalates that can end up in your food, sticking to raw meats or fish and potentially being consumed. In contrast, end-grain hardwood boards are incredibly durable. Their design allows the wood to "heal" itself after cuts, maintaining its smooth surface and extending its lifespan.
3. Protects your knives
Plastic cutting boards are harder on your knives. They can dull blades faster, leading to frequent sharpening or replacement. End-grain boards are much gentler. The vertical grain of the wood allows the knife to slide between the fibers, preserving your blade's sharpness.
4. Eco-friendly and sustainable
Plastic boards contribute to environmental waste. They’re often discarded when they become worn, adding to landfills. In contrast, end-grain boards are made from natural, renewable materials like walnut or cherry wood. Plus, they’re biodegradable, making them an eco-conscious choice.
5. Aesthetic and functional appeal
Let’s face it—plastic cutting boards don’t add much style to your kitchen. End-grain hardwood boards, with their intricate wood patterns and rich tones, double as beautiful serving pieces for charcuterie or bread. They’re functional and elegant, elevating your kitchen's aesthetic.
The final cut
Ultimately, choosing an end-grain hardwood cutting board is a smart decision for anyone who values durability, hygiene, and sustainability in the kitchen. It’s an investment that pays off in better performance, longer-lasting tools, and a more stylish cooking space.
Square Root Studio is a USA made brand that offers premium wood crafted kitchen and bar accessories and custom hardwood furniture pieces. When it comes to cutting boards, we strive to offer all of the advantages mentioned above to our customers. This is also the reason why at this time we solely cary end-grains in our cutting boards store section. There is no better option for your kitchen experience, and you deserve premium.
See also the end-grain cutting boards from the Square Collection, by Square Root Studio, and explore the different wood patterns you can have in your very own cutting board. This is an American black walnut square 12x12 end-grain cutting board: