To keep your cutting board in top shape, follow these tips: **Things to Avoid:** 1. Never use vegetable, canola, or other baking oils as they can spoil and cause bad odors. Stick to food-grade mineral oil or our special board compound available on our site. 2. Avoid letting the board sit wet or submerging it in water. This can cause warping or cracking. Our board conditioner helps repel water. 3. Never wash your cutting board in the dishwasher, microwave, or oven, and don't use it as a hot plate. **Things to Do:** 1. Oil all sides and edges of the board every time to prevent warping. Use a beeswax/mineral oil mixture or "Howard Butcher Block Conditioner" from big box stores. 2. Store the board away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration. 3. Clean with hot soapy water, rinse, and towel dry. Let it dry for a few hours standing up or in a rack. 4. Store flat or standing up to prevent warping. If stored flat, ensure both sides can breathe by using feet on the board.