Choosing the right cutting board set for your kitchen can be a daunting task. With so many different types of materials, sizes, designs, and features to consider, it can be hard to know where to start. To make things easier, we’ve compiled a buyer’s guide for the best cutting board sets. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve broken down each of the product features you should consider into sections below.
Material
The type of material your cutting board is made from will largely determine its durability and maintenance needs. Hardwood boards are the most traditional option and tend to be very durable and easy to clean and maintain. Bamboo boards are also becoming increasingly popular for their environmentally friendly qualities and their ability to resist staining from acidic foods. Plastic boards are by far the most popular choice due to their affordability, lightweight design, and non-porous nature which makes them easier to clean and maintain than other materials.
Size
The size of your cutting board is an important consideration as it needs to fit onto your kitchen countertop and be able to accommodate all of the items you need to cut. Check the measurements of the boards in the set before buying so that they will fit comfortably on your countertop. Also, pay attention to the thickness of the boards as this will determine how much weight they can support while cutting.
Design
The design of your boards should be ergonomic and comfortable to use for extended periods. Look for boards with grips or handles for easy transport and storage, or even built-in knife guards if you plan on using sharp knives on them frequently. The shape of the boards should also be taken into consideration when buying as some may have corners or edges which are harder to maneuver around than others.
Maintenance
Cleaning and maintaining your cutting board will be an important factor in its longevity. Generally speaking, plastic boards require less maintenance than those made from other materials such as hardwood or bamboo. However, all types of boards will need to be cleaned regularly with warm water and a mild detergent then dried off with paper towels after use. Most plastic cutting boards are also dishwasher-safe for added convenience.
Price
The price of cutting board sets can vary greatly depending on the materials used and the number of boards included in the set. Think about how often you plan on using it and how many items you’ll need to cut before deciding how much money you want to spend on a set.
Durability
Durability is an important factor in any kitchen appliance, especially when it comes to something like a cutting board that will be used multiple times a day for years. Hardwood boards tend to last longer than others because they’re more resistant to warping or cracking. However, plastic or bamboo boards are less expensive alternatives that still offer great durability if maintained properly.
Stain Resistance
It’s always nice to have a cutting board that won’t stain easily from acidic foods like lemons, tomatoes, and onions. While plastic boards are generally stain resistant thanks to their non-porous surface, bamboo and hardwood can be treated with oils or waxes which help prevent staining from certain foods. Look for sets that have already been treated with stain-resistant products if this is important to you.
Non-Stick Surface
This feature may not be necessary if you don’t plan on dealing with wet ingredients often but it can come in handy when handling particularly sticky items like doughs or pastries that would otherwise stick to the surface of your board while being cut. Plastic boards are usually made with a non-stick surface but some wooden varieties can also be treated with special oils which provide this function as well.
Non-Slip Base
A non-slip base helps ensure that your board won't move around while in use; making it easier and safer for you when cutting items like meat or vegetables on a slippery surface at high speeds. Many plastic boards come with textured bottoms which make them less likely to slip around. However, you could also look for heavy-duty rubber pads which can easily be attached underneath your board for extra grip on a slippery countertop surface.
