The Only Guide to Tung Oil for Butcher Blocks You’ll Need

Have you ever run your hand across a beautiful wooden counter and wondered how to keep it looking that good? That’s where tung oil comes in, and it’s easier to use than you might think. 

I remember the first time I applied tung oil on my butcher block – I was nervous about messing up, but the results were amazing.

In this guide, I’ll show you everything you need to know about tung oil for your butcher block countertops. You’ll learn what makes this finish special, how to apply it like a pro, and simple ways to keep your counters looking amazing for years. 

These tips will help you create a beautiful, food-safe surface that gets better with every meal you prepare.

What is Tung Oil?

Tung oil comes from the seeds of the tung tree, which grows in China and other parts of Asia. The oil is pressed from tung nuts and has a clear to amber color.People have used it for hundreds of years to protect wood. 

It’s popular because it sinks into wood and forms a tough, water-resistant finish that brings out the natural beauty of the grain. Unlike some other finishes, tung oil is natural and safe to use on items that might touch food, like cutting boards and bowls. 

Many wood lovers choose tung oil because it’s eco-friendly and doesn’t have the strong chemical smell of other finishes. Woodworkers like it because it gives wood a warm, rich look that gets better with age.

When you apply tung oil, it creates a matte to satin finish that feels smooth to the touch. It doesn’t chip or peel like some varnishes might.  The finish it creates is flexible and moves with the wood as it expands and contracts with changes in humidity and temperature.

It takes some time to dry between coats, but the results are worth the wait.

How to Finish Butcher Block Countertops with Tung Oil

Getting your butcher block countertops to look amazing with tung oil isn’t hard, but it does take some patience. Let me walk you through the steps to get a beautiful, food-safe finish that lasts for years.

Preparation and Sanding

Before you open that can of tung oil, make sure your countertop is ready. I always start by cleaning off any dust or grime with a damp cloth. Once it’s dry, grab your sandpaper and get to work.

• Start with 180-grit sandpaper and sand with the grain, not against it. 
• Then move up to 220-grit and finish with 320-grit for a super smooth surface. When you run your hands over it, it should feel as smooth as glass. 
• Wipe away all the dust with a tack cloth before you start applying the oil.

Applying Tung Oil

Now comes the fun part! Pour a small amount of oil onto the wood or onto a foam brush. I like to use a lint-free cloth too – old t-shirts work great for this.

• Rub the oil into the wood using small circles. Don’t worry about using too much – the wood will only take what it needs. 
• Let it soak in for about 15-20 minutes, then wipe off any extra oil. If you leave too much on top, it can get sticky.
• For the best results, wait 24 hours between coats. Most butcher blocks need 3-5 coats for good protection. Each coat will make the wood look richer and more alive.

Curing Process

This is where patience really pays off. While the surface might feel dry after a day or two, tung oil needs 15-30 days to fully cure. During this time, try to be gentle with your countertops.

Avoid cutting directly on the surface or placing hot pots and pans on it until the oil has fully cured. The wait might seem long, but a fully cured tung oil finish will last for years and is well worth the wait.

Pros and Cons of Using Tung Oil on Butcher Block

Not sure if tung oil is right for your butcher block? Weigh these factors carefully before making your choice.

Pros

Tung oil has a lot going for it! It’s completely food-safe. Once it cures, it creates a waterproof barrier that keeps moisture from damaging your wood. The finish is tough and can stand up to daily use in a busy kitchen.

Tung oil shows off the natural wood grain without making it too dark or yellow over time. My maple butcher block still looks fresh and natural years later. You also don’t need fancy tools or skills to apply it, which is great for DIY projects.

Cons

The biggest drawback is definitely the waiting time. It takes 15-30 days to fully cure, which can be tough if you’re eager to use your new countertops. I had to set up a temporary prep area while waiting for mine to cure.

You’ll also need to re-oil your counters about twice a year to keep them looking good and well-protected. This isn’t hard, but it’s something to remember. If you forget, you might notice dry spots that can absorb stains more easily.

After looking at both sides, tung oil is a great choice if you value beauty and food safety over quick results. The time it takes is a small price to pay for a finish that upgrades your butcher block’s look while keeping it protected for years to come.

Tung Oil vs Other Finishes for Butcher Blocks

When choosing a finish for your butcher block, it helps to compare options side by side. I’ve tried several finishes over the years, and each has its strengths and weaknesses depending on how you use your counters.

Feature	Tung Oil	Mineral Oil	Beeswax	Polyurethane
Food Safety	Completely food-safe when cured	Food-safe	Food-safe	Not food-safe for cutting surfaces
Water Resistance	Excellent when fully cured	Poor (needs frequent reapplication)	Moderate	Excellent
Durability	Good (lasts 6-12 months before reapplication)	Poor (needs monthly reapplication)	Moderate (3-4 months)	Excellent but can chip or peel
Ease of Repair	Easy (sand lightly and reapply)	Very easy (simply reapply)	Easy (reapply)	Difficult (must sand and refinish)
Curing Time	Long (15-30 days)	None (absorbs immediately)	Short (24 hours)	Moderate (3-7 days)
Look & Feel	Natural matte to satin finish	Very natural, matte finish	Natural with slight sheen	Plastic-like, glossy finish
Protection Level	High	Low	Moderate	Very high
Toxicity During Application	Low (mild smell)	None	None	High (strong fumes)

When it comes down to choosing, think about how you’ll use your butcher block. If you want something that truly protects your investment without chemicals touching your food, tung oil stands out as the best all-around option.

Other Uses for Tung Oil in Your Home

Tung oil isn’t just for butcher blocks! Once you get comfortable applying it, you might find yourself looking around for other wood surfaces that could use some love. 

Here are some of my favorite ways to use tung oil beyond the kitchen counters.

1. Cutting boards are perfect for tung oil treatment. They look great and stay safe for food prep. The oil keeps them from drying out and cracking, even with daily washing.
2. Tung oil gives wooden furniture a new life. It makes the grain pop, and water rings are a thing of the past. The warm glow it gives to old wood is truly beautiful.
3. Wood trim and baseboards can be treated, too.
4. In bathrooms, use tung oil on the window trim to protect it from moisture. 
5. Wooden toys and baby furniture are great candidates for tung oil since it’s non-toxic when cured. 
6. Outdoor furniture lasts longer with a tung oil finish. 

Maintaining Butcher Block Countertops Finished with Tung Oil

Taking care of your tung oil-finished butcher block isn’t complicated, but a little regular attention goes a long way. These simple habits will keep them looking beautiful with minimal effort.

• Clean my counters daily with a damp cloth and a tiny bit of mild dish soap.
• For tougher spots, a mix of equal parts water and vinegar works wonders without damaging the finish.
• Never let water sit on the surface – always dry your counters after cleaning.
• For stubborn stains, sprinkle some salt and rub with half a lemon, which naturally lifts the mark without harsh chemicals.
• Food stains happen, but don’t panic! Use a bit of baking soda paste on coffee or wine marks, and they fade away. 

Reapplying Tung Oil

Your counters will tell you when they need attention. You’ll know it’s time to reapply when water no longer beads on the surface.

Lightly sand with fine sandpaper, wipe away the dust, and apply a fresh coat just like the first time. It’s much quicker than the initial application since you only need one or two coats.

This refresh keeps your counters protected and brings back that warm glow. I actually enjoy this seasonal ritual – it’s a chance to reconnect with the Awood in my kitchen.

Conclusion

Taking the time to finish your butcher block with tung oil is truly worth the effort. Yes, it takes some patience, but few things in your home will give you the same satisfaction as running your fingers across that smooth, rich wood finish you created yourself.

Remember, tung oil isn’t just about looks. It’s about creating a lasting, food-safe surface that gets better with age. 

Your butcher block is a centerpiece that brings natural warmth to your home. When friends ask about your beautiful counters, you’ll smile knowing you chose a finish that’s stood the test of time for centuries. 

So roll up your sleeves and give your butcher block the love it deserves. You’ll thank yourself!