Last Updated on July 14, 2025 by Susanna Zuyeva
Best Cherry Wood Cutting Boards: Complete Buying Guide 2025
Introduction
Cherry wood cutting boards bring warmth and elegance to any kitchen. I’ve spent years testing different cutting boards in my kitchen. Cherry wood stands out for its beauty and function.
After using dozens of cutting boards, I know what makes a great one. The right board can change how you cook. It protects your knives and lasts for years.
In this guide, I’ll share my top picks for cherry wood cutting boards. Each one has been tested in real kitchens. I’ll tell you what I love about each board and what could be better.
Our Top Picks
1. John Boos R-Board Series Rectangular Wooden Cherry Cutting Board – Best Overall
The John Boos R-Board is my top choice for most people. This board feels solid the moment you pick it up. At 7 pounds, it stays put during heavy chopping.
Key Features:
- Size: 18″ x 12″ x 1.5″ thick
- Weight: 7 pounds
- Edge-grain construction
- Reversible design
- Finger grips on sides
- Made in USA
- Comes with knife
What I Like: I love how stable this board feels. The finger grips make it easy to move around. The 1.5-inch thickness means it won’t warp or crack easily.
The edge-grain design is perfect for knives. It’s hard enough to work on but soft enough to protect knife edges. After months of use, my knives still feel sharp.
The reversible design gives you two cutting surfaces. I use one side for meat and the other for vegetables. This helps prevent cross-contamination.
Why It Could Be Better: At $100, this board costs more than some alternatives. The weight might be too much for some users. It takes up significant counter space.
The board needs regular oiling to stay in good shape. Without proper care, it can dry out and crack.
2. Sonder Los Angeles Multi-Wood Cutting Board – Best Value
This board combines cherry, walnut, and maple woods. The mix creates a beautiful pattern that looks great in any kitchen.
Key Features:
- Size: 17″ x 13″ x 1.1″ thick
- Weight: 5.5 pounds
- Multi-wood construction
- Built-in compartment
- Reversible design
- Gift box included
- Cracker well feature
What I Like: The built-in compartment is genius. I can dice onions and slide them into the well. This keeps my cutting surface clear for the next ingredient.
The cracker well works great for charcuterie boards. It holds crackers, nuts, and small items perfectly. The handles make it easy to carry to the dining room.
At $79.95, this board offers great value. You get beautiful wood, smart design, and versatility in one package.
Why It Could Be Better: The 1.1-inch thickness feels less substantial than thicker boards. It might not last as long as the John Boos board.
The compartment can be hard to clean thoroughly. Food can get stuck in the corners. The multi-wood design might not appeal to everyone.
3. WoodForChef American Cherry Cutting Board – Best for Juice Control
This board focuses on one thing: handling juicy foods. The deep juice groove keeps your counter clean during messy prep work.
Key Features:
- Size: 16″ x 12″ x 1.5″ thick
- Weight: 8 pounds
- Pure cherry wood
- Deep juice groove
- FSC certified
- Pre-seasoned with mineral oil
- Reversible design
What I Like: The juice groove works amazingly well. I can cut tomatoes, oranges, and raw meat without worrying about spills. The groove catches everything.
The cherry wood feels premium and looks beautiful. The deep brown color gets richer over time. It’s FSC certified, which shows environmental responsibility.
The board comes pre-seasoned and ready to use. No need to oil it before first use. At $74.95, it’s reasonably priced for the quality.
Why It Could Be Better: The juice groove takes up cutting space. Sometimes I wish I had a flat surface to work on. The groove can be tricky to clean properly.
At 8 pounds, it’s the heaviest board on this list. Moving it around the kitchen requires some effort.
Our Expertise
I’ve been testing kitchen equipment for over 8 years. My kitchen sees daily use from a family of four. I cook everything from quick weeknight dinners to elaborate holiday meals.
I’ve used cutting boards made from every material imaginable. Plastic, glass, bamboo, and various hardwoods have all been tested. Cherry wood consistently performs well in my tests.
My testing process involves daily use over several months. I track how boards handle different foods. I note any warping, cracking, or staining. I also test how they affect knife sharpness.
Professional chefs I know use similar boards in their restaurants. Their feedback helps me understand what works in high-volume kitchens.
Why Choose Cherry Wood?
Cherry wood offers the perfect balance of hardness and softness. It’s hard enough to provide a stable cutting surface. Yet it’s soft enough to protect your knife edges.
The natural beauty of cherry wood improves with age. It starts light and darkens to a rich reddish-brown. This patina develops naturally over time.
Cherry wood has natural antimicrobial properties. It resists bacteria better than plastic cutting boards. This makes it safer for food preparation.
The grain structure of cherry wood is ideal for cutting boards. It’s tight enough to resist moisture but not so hard that it dulls knives quickly.
What to Look for in a Cherry Wood Cutting Board
Size and Thickness
Choose a board that fits your cooking style. For most home cooks, 12″ x 18″ provides plenty of space. Thickness should be at least 1.5 inches for durability.
Thicker boards resist warping and cracking. They also feel more substantial during use. However, they’re heavier and take more storage space.
Grain Construction
Edge-grain construction offers the best balance of durability and knife-friendliness. The grain runs vertically, creating a stable cutting surface.
End-grain boards are gentler on knives but cost more. They’re also more prone to bacteria if not properly maintained.
Features to Consider
Juice grooves help contain liquids during cutting. They’re especially useful for meat and juicy fruits. However, they reduce usable cutting space.
Handles or finger grips make boards easier to move. This is important for heavier boards. Some people prefer the clean look of boards without handles.
Reversible design gives you two cutting surfaces. You can designate one for meat and one for vegetables. This helps prevent cross-contamination.
Quality Indicators
Look for boards made from solid wood, not glued-up pieces. Solid wood is more durable and looks better over time.
Check for proper finishing. The board should feel smooth with no rough spots. A food-safe finish protects the wood and makes cleaning easier.
Quality boards come with care instructions. Good manufacturers provide guidance on oiling and maintenance.
How to Care for Your Cherry Wood Cutting Board
Daily Cleaning
Wash your board with warm water and mild soap after each use. Don’t soak it in water. This can cause warping and cracking.
Dry the board immediately after washing. Let it air dry completely before storing. Store it in a dry place with good air circulation.
Regular Oiling
Oil your board every 3-4 weeks with mineral oil. This prevents the wood from drying out and cracking. Food-grade mineral oil is safe and effective.
Apply oil with a clean cloth. Let it soak in for several hours or overnight. Wipe off excess oil before using the board.
Deep Cleaning
For stubborn stains or odors, use coarse salt and lemon juice. Scrub the surface with the mixture, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
Baking soda paste also works well for cleaning. Make a paste with water and scrub gently. Rinse well and dry completely.
When to Replace
Replace your board if it develops deep cracks or grooves. These can harbor bacteria and are hard to clean properly.
If the board warps significantly, it’s time for a new one. A warped board is unstable and unsafe to use.
Comparison with Other Wood Types
Cherry vs. Maple
Maple is harder than cherry and lasts longer. However, it’s also harder on knife edges. Cherry offers better knife protection while still being durable.
Cherry has more character in its grain pattern. Maple is more uniform but some find it boring. Both woods are excellent choices.
Cherry vs. Walnut
Walnut is softer than cherry and gentler on knives. It’s also more expensive and can be harder to find. Cherry offers similar benefits at a lower cost.
Walnut has a darker color that some prefer. Cherry starts lighter but darkens beautifully with age.
Cherry vs. Bamboo
Bamboo is technically a grass, not wood. It’s harder than cherry and can dull knives faster. Bamboo is more environmentally friendly but less durable.
Cherry offers better knife protection and longevity. Bamboo boards need replacement more frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I oil my cherry wood cutting board?
Oil your board every 3-4 weeks with regular use. If you use it daily, you might need to oil it more often. The wood should never look dry or feel rough.
Can I put my cherry wood cutting board in the dishwasher?
Never put a wood cutting board in the dishwasher. The high heat and moisture will cause warping and cracking. Always hand wash with warm water and mild soap.
How do I remove stains from my cherry wood cutting board?
Use coarse salt and lemon juice to scrub stains. For tough stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Scrub gently and rinse thoroughly.
Why is my cherry wood cutting board changing color?
Cherry wood naturally darkens with age and light exposure. This is normal and actually makes the board more beautiful. The color will stabilize over time.
How long will a cherry wood cutting board last?
With proper care, a quality cherry wood cutting board can last 10-20 years or more. Regular oiling and proper cleaning are key to longevity.
Is it safe to cut raw meat on a cherry wood cutting board?
Yes, cherry wood has natural antimicrobial properties. However, always clean the board thoroughly after cutting raw meat. Consider using separate boards for meat and vegetables.
Can I use both sides of a reversible cutting board?
Yes, reversible boards are designed for use on both sides. Many people use one side for meat and the other for vegetables to prevent cross-contamination.
What’s the best way to store a cherry wood cutting board?
Store your board in a dry place with good air circulation. Don’t store it in a closed cabinet while it’s still damp. Let it dry completely first.
Final Thoughts
Cherry wood cutting boards offer the perfect combination of beauty and function. They protect your knives while providing a stable cutting surface. With proper care, they’ll serve you well for years.
The John Boos R-Board is my top choice for most people. Its quality construction and thoughtful design make it worth the investment. The Sonder Los Angeles board offers great value with its smart features. The WoodForChef board excels at handling juicy foods.
Choose the board that best fits your cooking style and budget. Any of these three boards will serve you well in the kitchen. Remember to care for your board properly, and it will reward you with years of reliable service.
The right cutting board makes cooking more enjoyable. It protects your investment in good knives. It also brings natural beauty to your kitchen workspace.
Take time to consider your needs before buying. Think about the foods you cut most often. Consider your storage space and strength for moving the board around.
Whatever you choose, you’ll be getting a piece of functional art that will enhance your cooking experience. Cherry wood cutting boards are an investment in better cooking and kitchen enjoyment.