How to Choose the Right Cutting Board

Choosing the right cutting board matters more than most people realize. The best board protects your knives, improves food prep, and adds beauty and function to your kitchen. With so many options available—plastic, bamboo, end grain, edge grain—it can be difficult to know what truly works best. Here is a clear guide to help you select the right cutting board for your home.

Wood vs. Plastic vs. Bamboo

Hardwood cutting boards are the top choice for most home cooks and professionals. Hardwood is durable, gentle on knives, naturally resistant to bacteria, and long-lasting when properly cared for. Maple, walnut, cherry, and other tight-grain hardwoods are ideal.

Plastic boards are inexpensive and dishwasher safe, but they scar easily and deep grooves can trap bacteria. They are useful for occasional raw meat prep, but not ideal for daily use.

Bamboo boards are popular but harder than most knife blades, which leads to premature dulling. Bamboo also tends to crack over time because it is technically a grass, not a true wood.

End Grain vs. Edge Grain vs. Face Grain

• End Grain Boards (often called “butcher block”) are premium boards. They are self-healing, incredibly durable, and the gentlest surface for knives.

• Edge Grain Boards are a great everyday choice. Strong, stable, and more affordable than end grain.

• Face Grain Boards are beautiful serving boards and charcuterie boards, but not typically designed for heavy chopping.

Size and Thickness Matter

Choose a cutting board large enough to prep comfortably and thick enough to remain stable.

• Everyday kitchen use: 10”x14” to 12”x18”

• Serious cooking: 18”x24”

• Thickness: 1”–2” for best strength and longevity

Consider Function

Think about how you plan to use it:

• Daily meal prep → edge or end grain hardwood

• Heavy chopping → end grain

• Serving & presentation → charcuterie or face grain board

• Compact kitchens → smaller but thicker board

Final Recommendation

For most kitchens, a hardwood edge grain or end grain board provides the best balance of durability, beauty, and performance. Choose quality craftsmanship and you’ll own a board that lasts for years.

Handmade hardwood cutting boards from Baxter’s Boards are crafted to perform beautifully and stand the test of time.