Wood Worktop Pocket Guide

Last Updated on May 8, 2023

A step by step guide how to oil and maintain your worktop

Step 1: “A” and “B” side of the worktop.

Before commencing any work on the worktop – make sure that you have identified the “A” side of the worktop to get the best possible appearance. How to identify the “A” side? “A” side of the worktop is the one containing fewer natural imperfections with a better overall color consistency.

Oiling Steps: You can use Danish Oil, but our recommendation is Osmo Top Oil.

Step 2: Pre-Installation oiling of both sides of the worktop

Prior the installation it is important to apply a few coats of oil to both sides of the worktop. If you are using Danish Oil -two coats, if you are using Osmo Top Oil – a single coat to each side.

Step 3: Post Installation oiling

Once in place, it is time to apply the final coats of oil. Prior to that if any sanding is needed, go over the worktop with a 120-grit orbital sander and make sure you cover the edges with a sanding pad. Wipe down the surface with a lint free cloth to remove any dust and then apply the oil thinly along the wood grain with a brush. Repeat as above 2-3 times for Osmo Top Oil and 5-6 times for Danish Oil. Allow to dry for approximately 8-10 hours for Danish Oil and 24 hours for Osmo Oil in a room with good ventilation.

Step 4: Maintenance & Re-oiling: The Water Drop Test

You can occasionally test whether your worktop needs pre-oiling by doing by spilling a drop of water on the surface. If the water drip forms a bead, the worktop is ready for action! If the water sits flat, it is time to re-oil your worktop.

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Which Oil?

The most popular two choices are Osmo Top Oil and Danish Oil. We recommend using Osmo Top Oil as it provides a superior protection, water resistance and less maintenance. Osmo also offers a wide range of different finishes to suit any style. Danish oil is our second-best choice.

Effortless

The Osmo Finish repels moisture and protects the worktop from aggressive stains such as wide and fizzy drinks. Once scratched or damaged, it is easy to repair – just sand the worktop with 120 grit and apply another coat of Oil.

Cleaning

For regular cleaning please avoid using bleach or any other abrasive cleaners. We  recommend using Osmo Spray Cleaner or Osmo Liquid Wax Cleaner for  removal of tough stains.