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The material

Hardwood, finished honestly

Mineral oil and beeswax, with nothing sprayed on top.

Dense, close-grained hardwood with a natural resistance to bacteria, worked by hand in Rajasthan, so every piece keeps its own grain.

The finish is food-safe mineral oil and beeswax, worked into the wood rather than sprayed over it. There is no varnish or lacquer to chip into your food, which is also why the surface can be brought back at home, indefinitely.

Care

Looking after it.

  • Damp cloth or mild soap. Never soak.

    A damp cloth or mild soap and warm water. Never let wood sit in water.

  • Wipe dry, then stand it on an edge.

    Wipe it dry straight away, then stand it on an edge so both sides breathe.

  • Looks pale and dry? Food-grade mineral oil.

    Every 2–3 weeks, or whenever the wood looks dry, spread food-grade mineral oil evenly. Leave it to soak in overnight, then wipe off the excess.

  • Wax over the oil brings back the sheen.

    A coat of wax over the oil seals the surface and brings back the sheen.

  • Dry, and out of direct sunlight.

    Store upright with air around both sides. Avoid extreme heat and humidity, and never leave it flat on a damp surface.

Avoid

  • The dishwasher, soaking, or extreme heat, which cause warping and cracks.
  • Olive or sunflower oil, which turn rancid in the grain.

Questions

Before you buy

All questions
How do I look after the wood?

Wipe it with a damp cloth or wash it with mild soap, never soak it, and dry it straight away. When it looks pale and dry, rub in a little food-grade mineral oil.

Is it dishwasher-safe?

No. Soaking and the dishwasher cause warping and cracks. Wash it with mild soap and warm water, then dry it straight away with a towel.

Which oil should I use?

Food-grade mineral oil or beeswax; coconut oil can also be used. Spread it evenly, let it soak in overnight, then wipe off the excess.

How often should I oil it?

Once every 2–3 weeks, or whenever it looks dry.

COOK IT TONIGHT

Made with the Wooden Ladle.

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