Q: Hello. Since the surface is harder using bamboo, does this mean there is less chance that the board will absorb moisture from food thus cutting down the danger of trapping bacteria?
A: Bamboo cutting boards are definitely more resistant to bacteria than other woods. The more porous a material, the more it will harbor bacteria. Softer materials are subject to knife cuts and cracks that will harbor bacteria. As far as bacterial resistance goes, a plastic, glass, or Corian board is going to be your safest bet. Bamboo's hardness, however, makes it a safe alternative as well.

Q: If the surface is so hard, is it hard on your knife edges?
A: From what we've read, the knife wear caused by using a bamboo cutting board falls somewhere between a traditional maple and glass (with glass being harder on the knives). There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a cutting board (what it's used for, bacterial concerns, environmental impact, aesthetics, etc.), so it all depends on what you're looking for. No one surface is everything to everyone.

Q: I recently purchased a bamboo board, when I got it home I found it has little slivers all over the surface. Is there something wrong with it, or is there something I need/can do to seal it?
A: We're not entirely sure what you mean by "slivers", but the bamboo cutting board is composed of many small pieces of bamboo that have been treated with steam to achieve the differences in color. The product was sealed with a natural finish, but it's definitely a good idea to apply a food-grade mineral oil from time to time to maintain the seal and prevent excessive drying or warping. If you have any further questions about your cutting board, please feel free to give us a call.

Q: This statement (from your answers to other customers' questions)is incorrect. Wood is safer than plastic: As far as bacterial resistance goes, a plastic, glass, or Corian board is going to be your safest bet.
A: We did some more online research and we've found arguments that claim that wood is safer and found some arguments that claim that plastic is safer. Our suggestion: wash your food and wash your hands and everybody will be happy.

Q: hello,I just bought a large bamboo cutting board as a gift for my husband and it is wonderful! But we do not know what type of oil if any and how often do we put it on the board to maintain it?
A: Apply a food-safe mineral oil monthly or as often as needed. Use a soft cloth to apply the oil and allow the oil to soak in for several hours before wiping away any excess oil that was not absorbed. With a brand new board, 3 or 4 coats could be needed.

Q: if a bamboo cutting board does require oil,where can you buy it? what kind is it?
A: Use a food-safe mineral oil on the Bamboo Cutting Board. Do not use vegetable oils, olive oils, or cooking oils because they can eventually turn rancid. You can buy mineral oil at mass retailers (such as Wal-Mart or Walgreens) or at stores that carry wooden items, such as hardware and craft stores.

Q: I bought a bamboo board and it warped back and forth eventually causing cracking. We never emersed the board but we did put it under running water to clean. Any advise for the next board?
A: Aside from remembering not to immerse the board in water, it's also important to keep the board oiled properly. When bamboo cutting boards get dry, they become more susceptible to splintering and cracking.

Q: my husband put my brand new board in the dishwasher. Now it is rough and dry. How can I fix it?
A: Our best suggestion would be to rub your cutting board down with food grade mineral oil. You may have to do it a couple times to see significant improvement.

Q: How thick is this 8" x 14" bamboo cutting board that you are selling for 19.95? How much is S&H?
A: The Bamboo Cutting Board is 1" thick. Shipping costs will depend on where it is shipping to and which method you choose. To get shipping quotes, click "Get Shipping Quote" and enter your zip code or country.

Q: I have read reviews about customers who were unsatisfied about bamboo boards. They said the boards do not hold well to use of cleavers because it cracks or split upon impact.Alicia
A: Thanks for your comments. We've been selling these Bamboo Cutting Boards for well over a year now, and our customers have been very pleased with their cutting boards.

Q: can hot pans be set on a bamboo chopping board?
A: Although the Bamboo Cutting Board could probably withstand the heat, it is not recommended.

Q: I applied mineral oil to my bamboo board. The following day I cut a plumb on the board and it left a purple stain. The stain won't come off with mild soap and water. How can I remove the stain?
A: The manufacturer suggests rubbing the stain with a little bit of vinegar.