Care for Your Coati Home® Boards and Trays: 3 Simple Steps to Keep Them Like New
Step 1: How to Clean Your Boards and Trays
Keep your Coati Home® boards and trays clean and dry to extend their lifespan.
- Wash them with water and mild soap on both sides to prevent warping.
- Dry them with a clean cloth and let them air-dry completely in an upright position on your countertop.
- Avoid the dishwasher and soaking, as this can warp the wood.
Step 2: Natural Methods to Disinfect
Keep your boards and trays germ-free naturally with these methods:
Option 1: Lemon and Salt
- Squeeze a lemon over the surface and generously sprinkle coarse salt.
- Use half a lemon to rub the salt all over the board, including the edges.
- Let it sit overnight, scrape off the dried salt with a spatula, and rinse both sides.
- Dry with a clean cloth and let them air-dry completely in an upright position.
Option 2: Vinegar and Water
- Mix equal parts water and vinegar.
- Apply the mixture to the surface with a cloth or sponge.
- Let it air-dry in an upright position. The vinegar smell will dissipate once it’s dry!
Step 3: How to Protect Your Boards and Trays
Keep your Coati Home® boards and trays moisturized with pure, raw linseed oil to prevent cracks and warping.
- Test if oil is needed: Drop some water on the surface. If it absorbs, it’s time to oil.
- Apply pure, raw linseed oil with a cloth, following the grain of the wood.
- Let the oil soak in for two days in an upright position.
- Wipe off any excess oil with a paper towel before use.
Bonus: Removing Stains and Restoring Your Boards
Removing Stains:
- Rub stains with a mixture of baking soda and water.
- If stains persist, don’t worry; they will naturally fade with regular use.
Restoring Scratches:
If your boards and trays are heavily scratched, follow these steps:
1. Sand along the grain in three stages:
- #100 Grit Sandpaper: To shape and remove deep scratches.
- #180 Grit Sandpaper: To smooth out minor scratches.
- #220 Grit Sandpaper: For a perfectly smooth and polished finish.
2. Clean with a damp cloth and let dry.
3. Sand again if there are loose fibers.
4. Clean and apply oil to finish.