How to stop wooden worktops from staining

Wooden worktops add warmth and beauty to a kitchen, offering a natural and timeless look. However, one downside of wood is that it tends to stain easily, which can then affect the aesthetic. As kitchens are one of the most used rooms in a house, general wear and tear and accidental spills can cause damage to wooden surfaces if they’re not looked after properly. If not protected, food, water, oils and cleaning chemicals can cause the wood to discolour, stain and lose its charm.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the common causes of staining, how to improve the look of existing stains and how to protect your wooden worktop from damage. Whether you’re just beginning a renovation, want to restore an old worktop, or fit a new one, these tips below will help you maintain and protect your wooden worktop, keeping it looking great for longer.

Common causes of stains on wooden worktops

Let’s face it, accidents are bound to happen in the kitchen. Whether it’s unintentionally leaving a red wine stain for too long, not wiping excess water away after washing up or popping a sauce-covered wooden spoon down on the side, worktops work hard. Unfortunately, when these things happen on wooden worktops, it can cause stains that are hard to remove.

Coffee, red wine, tomato-based or curry sauces are known for quickly soaking into the wood and leaving behind stubborn stains. Water damage is another issue in the kitchen, as allowing wet sponges, dish racks, or a glass of water to sit on the surface can cause unsightly water rings or even black stains if the moisture soaks too far into the wood.

Heat marks from placing hot pans directly on the wood can leave burns, and substances like lemon juice or vinegar and certain cleaning products can damage the protective finish, making the wood more susceptible to stains in the future. Cooking with oil can cause a lot of grease and, if not cleaned promptly, can also seep into the surface, leaving behind marks that are tricky to remove.

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How to remove stains on a wooden worktop

Once you’ve seen a stain on your wooden worktop, it’s important to act quickly to try and remove it before it becomes permanent. Re-oiling can often work wonders on minor stains, as the oil helps to restore the wood’s natural beauty. All you need to do is thoroughly clean the stained area, allow it to air dry, and then apply a generous coat of oil. That will help to blend the stain into the grain of the wood, making it look as good as new.

For tougher stains, sanding is more effective. Get a medium-grit sandpaper and gently sand the area that’s stained. Be sure to follow the grain of the wood to prevent patches from looking uneven. Then, switch to a finer sandpaper to make the surface smooth. Once the stain has been removed from your wooden worktop and you have a soft surface, you can wipe away any dust and apply a fresh coat of oil, protecting the wood from future mishaps. If sanding doesn’t remove the stain, you’ll need to call in a professional to help.

Prevention is better than cure

The best way to prevent your wooden worktop from becoming damaged and stained is by using protective materials. For example, always use a chopping board when cutting and preparing food, use heat-resistant mats for hot pans or trays, place drinks on coasters, pop mats underneath plates of food, and use splash guards to protect the worktop from spills or accidents.

Another great way to keep your wooden worktop looking beautiful is to ensure you regularly re-oil it. By doing this every 3-6 months, a protective barrier is created, keeping the wood’s natural grain looking pristine. Use a high-quality oil like Danish oil or Osmo oil to provide a long-lasting protective finish, while improving the look and feel of your wooden worktop.

Be sure to check out our comprehensive guide on which oil is right for your worktop, it could be a real life saver for you!

Act fast – why cleaning spillages quickly is key

As wooden worktops absorb liquids quickly, it’s important to deal with spillages straight away. Whatever it is, wiping it up as soon as possible will reduce the chances of having a permanent stain.

Having the right cleaning products in your home to deal with spillages like this is essential. It’s a good idea to avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can strip the wood of its protective oil, causing discolouration. Instead, use a specialised wood cleaner or a mild soap solution and clean the surfaces gently.

Choosing the right wooden worktop for your needs

Some types of wood are more resistant to stains than others. Walnut and oak wooden worktops are popular choices for their durability and ability to withstand everyday wear and tear. Softer woods like pine may need maintenance more frequently. When choosing the type of wood, it’s worth considering how much time you can invest in regular upkeep.

If you have a busy kitchen it might even be worth considering a different worktop material altogether. For those looking for a low-maintenance option granite or quartz may be more practical.

Caring for your wooden worktop into the future

Whilst wooden worktops can offer a classic and timeless aesthetic appeal to a kitchen, they need a lot of care and upkeep to maintain their natural beauty. Unlike other materials such as granite or quartz, wood is more prone to staining and having issues related to moisture and heat, which is why maintaining your wooden worktop regularly is key.

With a little care, such as regular oiling and using protective materials, you can keep your wooden worktop looking great for years to come. You can read our informative guide on maintaining your worktop for more information on keeping your wooden worktop in top condition.

If you need advice or help maintaining your worktop, our team at House of Worktops is always here to advise you on the best course of action.