IKEA Butcher Block Countertops - Best Treatments?

Question

We just purchased Numerar Countertops from IKEA. I've read a lot about treatments- stain, waterlox, mineral oil, etc. Anyone have thoughts on the BEST method to get a good color but also seal and protect? Help! 
 Image sources: http://newlywoodwards.com/2013/03/a-review-ikea-butcher-block-countertops.html
http://kleypas.blogspot.com/2009/06/countertops.html?m=1

KMS Woodworks · Answer

This depends a bit on your use habits. I have found simple wood stair and a handfull of coats of wiping poly to handle most day to day stuff. This assumes you are not 'cutting' on the butcher block...I always recommend a cutting board even if BB is installed.

I treat my cutting boards with mineral oil

OrganizeTips.com · Answer

Mineral oil is the best. Other oils can turn rancid and change the color of the tops.

Carole · Answer

I agree with OrganizTips.com
I would go with a food safe mineral oil specifically for cutting boards and butchers blocks. Linseed or food based oils can indeed go rancid over time whilst the food safe ones won't. I found a good one made by Howards, but I am sure there are other brands you could use. I think it is worth paying for a good brand to keep these lovely surfaces looking good going forward.

Shari · Answer

One of my favorite bloggers, Miss Mustard Seed, sealed her (gorgeous) butcher block counters with Waterlox. Here's the link: http://missmustardseed.com/2013/03/kitchen-reveal-sources/ She did a tutorial for HGTV.com on the process of fitting, staining, sealing and installing them here: http://www.hgtv.com/kitchens/do-it-yourself-butcher-block-kitchen-countertop/index.html Also, here's another link to a blogger who used the IKEA butcher block in her kitchen. Looks like she has some good tips but I can't see where she said if/what they sealed them with. http://www.beneathmyheart.net/2012/01/ikea-butcher-block-countertop-answers-to-your-questions/ It seems to me, you would want the most water protection you could get, especially around the sink area, and I question whether mineral oil will protect the wood enough in chronically wet areas. At one time, I considered butcher block counters but ultimately decided I probably needed something that required a little less maintenance. If I hadn't changed my mind, I would most likely have used the Waterlox, based on what I've read.

Laura Trevey · Answer

Yours look great. I have been wanting a butcher block for our island!

Tina @ Repurposed Life · Answer

We have the Oak Butcher Block from IKEA on our island. We used Howards Butcher Block Conditioner. It is mineral oil and natural waxes. Howards is food grade safe.

Shari · Answer

@Julie @ WhereWeAreBlog.com When I first read your question, I got the impression you hadn't installed yours yet and were asking for advice on stains and sealers etc. But now I guess I'm confused... Are the photos above actually your kitchen countertops that have already been installed and stained? It looks like these are already sealed too, as I see a luster on them. ???

KMS Woodworks · Answer

If it is your kitchen the practice of hanging a dish towel on the wood ( or even on the knobs or cabinet fronts) is a bad idea. I have done a handful of repairs over the years to cabinet fronts form this practice. Our damp kitchen towel gets hung on the handle to the oven...the glass front is impervious to moisture damage.

Sandra Hellewell · Answer

Good choice, Julie! I also am getting butcher block counter tops from Ikea & after much research found that mineral oil is the best choice! I think butcher block counters look so good with white cabinets which is what mine will be when I redo my kitchen. We're just in the planning stages at the moment & trying to get an idea of approx. cost. I'm on a tight budget! Good luck with yours!!

Lwalker · Answer

Hi! so how often do you all reapply treatment? Or do you not need to with Mineral oil?

Julie @ WhereWeAreBlog.com · Answer

When they were new I reapplied every other week for the first month or so. You'll see that they need it- sopping up the oil quickly. Now I try to apply just once a month.

Sherrie · Answer

I found the ikea care sight. Your countertops are stunning. The care information is at the bottom of the page you have to open it. http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40057853/ Care instructions Wipe clean with a soft cloth dampened with water and a mild dish detergent or soap, if necessary. Wipe dry with a clean cloth. Light stains can be removed with a damp sponge in water or a mild soapy solution, or with a fine sandpaper. To ensure that your countertop ages gracefully, treat it regularly with BEHANDLA wood treatment oil. It gives the surface a beautiful sheen, protects the wood and prolongs the life of the countertop. Product description Solid beech, Oil Sent from my iPad

Dee · Answer

I found a recipe online-mineral and beeswax melted together. It cools to a Vaseline consistency. Just store in a jar. It's similar to a few brand-name products. I treat my Ikea BB with it once a month. It really draws the dirt out too.

TMulhern · Answer

Amazing work! Butcher block countertops looks absolutely amazing and classy. Loved it.

Ruth Anne · Answer

I used polywhey by Vermont Natural Coatings on mine. Environmentally safe and really waterproof! Mine have looked great for four years. Also used AFM safe coat for my stain.

KMS Woodworks · Answer

here is a kitchen remo i just finished up for a client in Crested Butte. New walnut butcher block, two large subway tile walls with walnut shelving and painted lowers

Swinnen Lisette · Answer

I had a white Ikea kitchen with a butcher block for 9 years. Every time O saw the wood was getting a bit dry, I applied line oil. I never had a problem. The kitchen still looked new after 9 years.

IKEA Butcher Block Countertops - Best Treatments?

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