Carbonised Bamboo Boards and Knife Care: Does It Affect Your Blades?
When it comes to kitchen prep surfaces, many home cooks worry: “Will this cutting board ruin my knives?” With the rising popularity of bamboo—especially the thermally-treated variant known as carbonised bamboo—this question is more relevant than ever. In this article we dive into how the carbonisation process affects blade wear, compare regular bamboo with carbonised, and reinforce why both are better than plastic boards for your knives, your hygiene and your planet.
What is a Bamboo Cutting Board & What Does Carbonisation Mean?
Regular Bamboo Boards
Bamboo boards are made from a fast-growing grass species, laminated into strips and pressed into flat boards using food-safe adhesives and finishes. Their natural structure gives them good strength, reasonable moisture resistance and a more sustainable profile compared with many other materials.
Carbonised Bamboo Boards
The term “carbonised bamboo” refers to bamboo that has been subjected to a controlled heat/thermal process to change its properties: a darker, richer colour, a lower residual moisture content and a slightly altered fibre structure. This process can enhance stability and aesthetic appeal.
Does Carbonised Bamboo Affect Knife Sharpness?
How Boards Impact Knife Blades
Surfaces that are harder than the steel blade can roll, chip or blunt the edge. For example, glass or stone are far harder than most kitchen knives and should be avoided.
What the Research Says About Bamboo
- Bamboo cutting boards do not dull kitchen knives when used properly and are gentler on blades than many alternatives.
- Some note that bamboo is harder than certain woods, and that poor-quality boards may increase blade wear.
- Factors like cutting technique and knife maintenance often have more impact on blade dullness than board material.
Implications for Carbonised vs Regular Bamboo
Carbonisation slightly increases the board's hardness and stability. This may improve resistance to warping but also could, theoretically, increase blade wear. However, when sourced from reputable brands with proper finishes and adhesives, carbonised bamboo performs safely and reliably for knife edges.
Why Both Bamboo Options Are Still Far Better Than Plastic
- Hygiene: Bamboo resists gouging and bacterial buildup better than plastic.
- Sustainability: Bamboo is renewable and eco-friendly, unlike fossil-fuel based plastics.
- Knife friendliness: Bamboo provides a stable cutting surface that is gentler than hard synthetic materials.
- Multi-use: Bamboo boards also serve as beautiful presentation pieces, unlike most plastic boards.
Selecting & Caring for Your Board and Knives
Choosing Between Carbonised and Regular Bamboo
- Budget: Regular bamboo is more affordable.
- Style: Carbonised bamboo offers a premium look.
- Usage: Heavy users may benefit from carbonised bamboo’s extra durability.
See a trusted product example: Deer & Oak Carbonised Bamboo Chopping Board or visit Deer & Oak's full collection.
Care & Knife Protection Tips
- Always hand wash with mild soap; avoid dishwashers.
- Dry immediately and store upright.
- Oil monthly with food-grade mineral oil.
- Use proper cutting technique and sharpen knives regularly.
FAQs
Will a carbonised bamboo board dull my knives faster?
No, not significantly. Quality and cutting technique matter more than minor material differences.
Are bamboo boards safe for knives?
Yes. Bamboo is a popular, knife-friendly material when made properly.
Is plastic safer for knives?
Plastic may feel softer but scratches easily, harbours bacteria, and has environmental drawbacks.
Which board is better for busy kitchens?
Carbonised bamboo, for its enhanced durability and resistance to warping.
Conclusion
If you’re serious about both knife care and sustainable kitchen choices, a bamboo chopping board—whether regular or carbonised—is a smart investment. With quality construction and good technique, your knives will stay sharp and your kitchen eco-friendly.
You can purchase Deer & Oak kitchenware through our website at deerandoak.co.uk or through TikTok Shop and Amazon UK at amazon.co.uk