Proper care of olive wood: The ultimate Swiss care guide 2026
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Proper Care for Olive Wood: A Guide for Cutting Boards, Bowls & Kitchen Utensils
Olive wood products are not only beautiful but also durable – if you care for them properly. In Switzerland, where quality and sustainability are highly valued, your handcrafted olive wood treasures deserve the best care. Here's everything you need to know.
Why Olive Wood Needs Special Care
Olive wood is a natural product with unique properties: it's antibacterial, extremely hard, and beautifully grained. However, like any natural wood, it needs regular care to maintain its beauty and functionality.
The 5 Golden Rules of Olive Wood Care
1. Never put it in the dishwasher!
This is the most common mistake. The heat and aggressive detergent will dry out, crack, and warp the wood. Always wash olive wood by hand with warm water and mild soap.
2. Dry immediately
Do not leave olive wood soaking in water or lying wet. Dry it immediately after thorough washing and stand it upright to air dry.
3. Oil regularly
Oil your olive wood products every 4–6 weeks with food-safe oil (olive oil, linseed oil, or special wood oil). This keeps the wood supple and prevents cracks.
How to oil properly:
- Wood must be completely dry
- Apply oil generously
- Allow to soak in for 2–4 hours
- Wipe off excess oil
4. Protect from direct sunlight
Do not store olive wood in direct sunlight – this will fade the color and dry out the wood.
5. For stains: Lemon and salt
Stubborn stains or odors? Rub the spot with half a lemon and coarse salt, rinse with warm water, and then oil.
Common Problems and Solutions
Problem: Small cracks
Solution: Oil generously and let the wood soak overnight. Small cracks are normal and do not affect functionality.
Problem: Rough surface
Solution: Lightly sand with fine sandpaper (220 grit), then oil.
Problem: Discoloration
Solution: Treat with lemon and salt, rinse, dry, and oil.
Swiss Quality Meets Mediterranean Craftsmanship
At MediterraneanArt, we combine traditional Tunisian craftsmanship with Swiss quality standards. Each of our olive wood products is carefully selected and handcrafted – with proper care, they will accompany you for a lifetime.
Conclusion
With these simple care tips, your olive wood products will remain beautiful and functional for decades. Invest a few minutes each month in their care – your handcrafted treasures will thank you!