Without a protective coating of mineral oil, the wood surface will dry out and may crack open the wood grain. To clean the wood surface, wet a cloth or non-abrasive scrub pad in warm sudsy water and scrub the entire surface until free of food. Immediately dry the surface of moisture with a clean cloth or paper towel. When the wood becomes dry, apply another coat of mineral oil. The use of vegetable oils is not recommended as a finish, as they contain ingredients that may tend to create a culture for bacteria to build up.
Vegetable oils tend to become gummy and resist attempts to properly clean wood surfaces.
Mineral oil is a non-toxic, inert oil that is light textured and will not build up an excessive coating over time. Mineral oil will not stain the wood, however spices and food may discolor the surface over time, especially if the wood becomes dry. The bowls are graded for structural integrity and wood defects. Grain variations occur in all bowls such as black spots, mineral stains, dark heartwood, curly grain, small burls, or birdseye graining. Yes, all of our bowls are sanded to 120 grit fine sanded finish and any wood defects are filled with putty pach to achieve a smooth surface.