Preparing Your Butcher Block Countertops

Hi Friends! Our kitchen makeover is still underway. This last week we installed our new countertop on the island… a gorgeous butcher block countertop. We also got happy mail… a fun, nautical light for over the island. So today I’m sharing with you guys how I prepped our butcher block countertops for use.

We got our butcher block countertop from Ikea. Out of the box it is not ready to use though. You need to prepare your butcher block countertop for food use.

(affiliate links included for your convenience)

I used Howard’s Butcher Block Conditioner to prepare our butcher block surface.

I squirted some in a microwave safe bowl and warmed it up in the microwave for about 20 seconds (at 70% power). This helps the conditioner to soak into the butcher block better. Then with an old t-shirt I rubbed on some conditioner in the direction of the wood. You’re not looking to rub in the conditioner… you are going to let it sit for 20 minutes… so a nice thin layer.

Here you can see all the wood tones and details are coming out. Once you’ve rubbed on your first layer you let it sit for 20 minutes. Then wipe off the excess and buff it up. Then repeat the process. I did it a total of 4 times.

To maintain your beautiful finish they recommend doing one coat every month.

I just love the warmth that the butcher block has added to the kitchen. So fun seeing the pieces coming together. Later this week I’m going to be sharing all about the gorgeous hardware on our kitchen cabinets.

Thanks for stopping by friends. I hope this helps if you are ever preparing your butcher block countertops and enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Here’s some of our other Kitchen DIY projects:

Prepping Kitchen Cabinets for Paint

Painting Kitchen Cabinets

DIY Gather Sign for the Nook

10 Comments

Love the look!!
As a woodworker, I suggest applying the Howards to the underside as well. Yes, difficult to do now that they are installed!! The reason for finishing both sides is to even out the moisture content of the wood and prevent moisture-related warping.

Thanks for that tip to use wood conditioner every month. I bet that helps your counter stay safe and look fresh. I want to go for a modern look in my kitchen, but I think wood can add a nice contrast in concept. The grain will add a lot of texture to the space, too.

I’m considering butcher block from IKEA, this was good to read, thank you! Have you ever stained the butcher block?

Pingback: Inspire Me Monday #7 - Domestically Speaking

I love your butcherblock counter!! Great tip on how to prepare it! Can’t wait to see your lighting fixture too! I’m coming over for a coffee when your kitchen is all finished! 😉