Wooden, Bamboo or Plastic Cutting Board? How to Choose the Best One!
Ever find yourself in a kitchen store, overwhelmed by all the cutting boards? Wood, bamboo, plastic – which one should you choose? The wrong choice can lead to dull knives, a slippery board, or even bacteria.
But don't worry! In this guide, we'll explain exactly:
(wood, bamboo or plastic?)
(acacia, teak or walnut?)
- How to prevent your board from slipping or tearing
- Which cutting board is best for meat, fish or everyday use
Whether you're looking for a cutting board that will last for years, protect your knives, or simply look great in your kitchen, we'll help you find the perfect match.
Read on quickly and discover which cutting board is right for you!
Why the Material of Your Cutting Board Is Important
A cutting board should not only be comfortable to use, but also safe and hygienic. The material determines:
✔ How long your board will last
✔ Whether your knives stay sharp
✔ Whether bacteria accumulate
✔ Whether the board stays in place (anti-slip!)
Let's compare the three most popular materials:
Wooden Cutting Boards – Classic & Durable
Advantages:
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Friendly to knives (less wear).
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Naturally antibacterial (if properly maintained).
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Beautiful appearance, fits in every kitchen.
Disadvantages:
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May warp when damp (solution: oil regularly).
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Heavier than plastic or bamboo.
Popular types of wood at KookGigant:
Acacia wood It's an affordable and versatile choice with a warm, light brown appearance. Its medium-hard texture makes it suitable for everyday use, although regular oiling is necessary to prevent cracking. This wood combines durability with an affordable price, perfect for those seeking quality without high costs.
Teak It excels in durability thanks to its extreme hardness and natural water resistance. Its characteristic golden hue enhances any kitchen and only becomes more beautiful with age. Ideal for intensive use, especially with moist ingredients, and a long-term investment.
Walnut wood Impresses with its rich, dark brown color and refined grain. Slightly softer than teak, yet still hard and extremely durable. This wood adds a luxurious look to your kitchen. This stylish option requires manual maintenance but rewards with timeless elegance and functionality.
Olive wood It stands out for its unique, dark grain pattern and compact structure. Naturally antibacterial and highly durable, it's an excellent choice for frequent cooks. The dense wood requires little maintenance and develops a beautiful patina over time.
View our wooden cutting boards here
Bamboo Cutting Boards – Durable & Eco-Friendly
Advantages:
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Harder than wood, so less likely to scratch.
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More sustainable than plastic (bamboo grows fast).
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Lightweight and easy to clean.
Disadvantages:
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Can sometimes splinter with cheaper variants.
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Less knife-friendly than softer woods.
Shinrai's bamboo cutting boards have a special anti-splintering finish – perfect for everyday use!
Plastic Cutting Boards – Lightweight & Hygienic (But Not Always Durable)
Advantages:
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Easy to clean (often dishwasher safe).
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Light and handy.
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Cheap to purchase.
Disadvantages:
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Scratches easily, allowing bacteria to build up.
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Less environmentally friendly (unless recycled).
- Possible microplastics in your food
Tip: If you decide to use plastic, choose recycled plastic (such as Combekk ).
Which Cutting Board is Right for You?
| Usage | Best Choice | Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Daily cooking | Acacia wood (affordable & sustainable) | Bamboo (easy to maintain) |
| Meat & fish | Plastic (OXO) or teak wood (hygienic) | Recycled plastic |
| Gourmet cooking | Walnut wood (luxurious appearance) | Teak wood ( water resistant) |
Frequently Asked Questions about Cutting Boards
How can I prevent cracks?
Wood is a natural product and can expand/shrink due to moisture. Solution:
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Maintain regularly with cutting board oil .
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Do not put in the dishwasher.
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Consider a harder wood (teak, walnut) if you want less maintenance.
Doesn't a wooden cutting board slide?
A wooden cutting board usually doesn't slip thanks to a combination of natural properties and practical factors. The weight of solid wood provides stability , while the slightly porous surface naturally offers more grip than smooth materials like plastic or glass.
Moreover, a well-maintained board remains nice and flat because quality wood has been carefully dried to prevent warping. For added stability, a damp tea towel can be placed under the board, which is especially helpful during intensive cutting work. These properties make wooden cutting boards naturally stable, even without special anti-slip measures.
Is bamboo better than plastic?
Bamboo cutting boards are generally superior to plastic, especially in terms of durability and longevity . The natural material is harder and more wear-resistant, making it less likely to develop scratches that can harbor bacteria . Bamboo is also more environmentally friendly because it grows quickly and is biodegradable .
Plastic cutting boards are often lighter and usually dishwasher safe, but they wear out faster, potentially releasing microplastics that end up in your food. In the long run, bamboo cutting boards are therefore a more hygienic and sustainable alternative.
What oil can I use for my cutting board?
To oil your cutting board, it's best to use food-safe mineral oil or a specific cutting board oil . These oils penetrate deeply into the wood without going rancid, unlike vegetable oils like olive oil, which can spoil.
Apply a thin layer with a cloth and let it soak in for optimal protection against drying out and cracking. Repeat monthly or whenever the wood starts to look dull.
Can you cut chicken and raw meat on the same cutting board?
For a hygienic kitchen , it's important to use separate cutting boards for raw meat, such as chicken, and other ingredients. Raw chicken can harbor salmonella and other bacteria that spread easily. Therefore, use a plastic cutting board for raw meat, as it's less porous than wood and easier to clean thoroughly.
Do you only have one cutting board? Clean it after use with hot water and dish soap , or even better, disinfect it with a mixture of water and vinegar. This prevents cross-contamination and allows you to prepare your meals safely and hygienically .
Conclusion: What is the Best Cutting Board?
It depends on your preference:
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For knife wear & durability → Choose wood (acacia or walnut).
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For hardness & environmental friendliness → Go for bamboo .
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For easy cleaning → Take plastic (e.g. OXO).
Discover our Shinrai Collection – Specially Designed for Sharp Knives!
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Do you have any questions? Our customer service team is happy to help!