how to oil your timber and bamboo benchtops

One of the most frequent questions we get asked here at kaboodle is, “Help! What do I seal my timber/bamboo benchtops with?”

It’s a fair question too… you want those brand new benchtops to have a sharp finish and last in a busy kitchen.

So to help out, we’ve spoken to our resident benchtop experts to find out what they have to say about sealing your timber and bamboo benchtops.

First of all, it’s important to take your timber or bamboo benchtop out of the packaging and allow it to climatise for around 24 - 48 hours. Be sure to lay your benchtop on a flat, clean surface while you're allowing it to acclimatise.

We recommend using our Clear Hardwax Oil Kit which includes all the tools you need to give your timber and bamboo benchtops a more natural finish, while also providing a protective layer on the surface. The oil and wax combinations are made on a base of natural, sustainable raw materials including linseed oil, sunflower oil, jojoba oil, beeswax, carnauba and candelilla wax.

How to oil your benchtop

Firstly; make sure you sand your benchtop with 120 grit sand paper then vacuum the surface to remove all of the dirt and dust.

To get the best results, we recommend doing at least two coats, allowing the benchtop to completely dry between coats.

First coat

• Stir the tin thoroughly and then pour the Hardwax Oil into a paint tray.

• Apply a thin even coat with the applicator, following the direction of timber grain.

• Allow your benchtop to dry for at least 12 hours.

• Sand your benchtop with 120 grit sand paper.

• Vacuum the surface to remove all dirt and dust.

Second coat

• Lightly sand the first coat with 220 grit sandpaper.

• Vacuum the surface to remove all dirt and dust.

• Stir the remaining Hardwax Oil in the tin and pour it into the paint tray.

• Apply the second coat to your benchtop.

Let the sealant dry completely and then… sit back in wonder at your stunning benchtop!

To keep the surface looking amazing, we recommend giving it a light sand and re-coat around once every 12 months.