Deep Maintenance

Restore water beading and enhance your Shou Sugi Ban board's pronounced grain with seasonal deep maintenance. Professional techniques for home care.

Monthly Oil Treatment: Maintaining Water Repellency

The carbon surface's water-beading property is enhanced by proper oiling:

  1. Clean Thoroughly - Remove all food particles from the pronounced grain texture
  2. Dry Completely - Essential for oil absorption
  3. Apply Oil Generously - The textured surface may need more than smooth boards
  4. Let Penetrate - 2-4 hours or overnight
  5. Buff Excess - Reveal the enhanced grain pattern

Oil Selection: Food-grade mineral oil or our specialized board oil blend. The carbon surface may initially absorb more oil - this is normal and beneficial.

Quarterly Deep Conditioning - Every 3 months, give your board special attention to maintain its unique properties.

  • Reading the Signs:

    • Water stops beading prominently = needs oil
    • Grain looks dry or faded = needs conditioning
    • Surface feels rough = may need light attention

  • Salt & Lemon Scrub:

    • Works especially well with the pronounced grain texture
    • Removes odors that even the water-repelling surface might retain
    • Naturally sanitizes without damaging the carbon layer

  • Restoration Treatment:

    • Heavy oiling to restore maximum water beading
    • Beeswax/Canauba wax application to enhance the pronounced grain's appearance
    • Celebrates rather than hides your board's imperfect natural beauty