Watco checked all the boxes.
Food safe stain for butcher block countertops.
Aside from investing in custom kitchen cabinets a butcher block countertop can also add warmth to the overall look of your kitchen.
Shellac brings out the rich warmth of wood grain making surfaces look soft and natural instead of plastic.
Then finish the stain with a coat of tung oil or other food safe sealant.
How to seal a butcher block countertop.
When it came to searching for the best treatment to protect the butcher block food safety was also at the top of the list.
Pure tung oil is a good choice for a food safe wood finish for your butcher block countertop or kitchen island.
It s easy to apply nontoxic and leaves a beautiful matte finish that fits into almost any home style.
Shellac shellac is a safe food safe wood stain made from a resin secreted from the female lac bug and ethanol.
On the other hand butcher block countertops are also subject to nicks and scratches.
I also wanted a treatment that easy to apply and with easy clean up.
Also stain your butcher block if you ve had your counters for several years and the current finish is looking worn or faded.
While many finishes may look gorgeous on your new wooden counter they might not be food safe.
If you will be preparing food directly on the block please check the label or with the finish manufacturer to determine if it is food safe.
What s great is that you can easily install and repair it.
There s something special about wood butcher block countertops.
I remember before i purchased mine i spent hours and hours doing research online trying to figure out what products were the best which ones were food safe which stains could be used etc.
There are several food safe lacquers and finishes you can choose from including.
I d like to stain it in some way but i don t want to use something that will end up seeping dangerously into the food i prepare on there.
Remember if you plan to use your butcher block for food prep then anything you seal it with will potentially contaminate your food.
Really it s all in the sealant.
After a light sanding wipe away any dust using a tack cloth.
Sand the wood before staining then select a wood stain and apply at least 2 coats.
You can also stain your butcher block countertop prior to finishing.
Now i know that making a decision on how to stain and seal butcher block countertops can be quite stressful.
It is available in a clear or amber tint.
Just got a new kitchen cart w a butcher block top and the wood is unfinished.
Most stains are not food safe.