5 Best Oils to Treat Wooden Kitchen Worktops

Wooden worktops bring warmth and character to your kitchen, but without the right care, that natural beauty can quickly fade. Oiling your worktop will ensure it remains in pristine condition for years to come by protecting the wood from moisture, stains, and wear. 

With so many options available, it can be hard to know which oil is best for your kitchen worktop. Here’s a straightforward guide to 5 of the most effective oils for wooden kitchen worktops, including what makes each one unique, how easy it is to apply, and how long it’ll last.

Why Choose a Wooden Worktop?

Before we dive into the oils, it’s worth remembering why wooden worktops remain such a firm favourite in UK kitchens.

1. Natural beauty: Each piece of wood has its own grain, texture, and tone, giving your kitchen a unique, organic look.
2. Warmth and character: Unlike stone or laminate, wood feels inviting and adds warmth to the kitchen space. 
3. Easy to repair: Scratches and scuffs can often be sanded out, giving your worktop a fresh start without replacing it.
4. Long-lasting with care: With regular oiling, wooden worktops can last for decades, developing a rich patina over time.
5. Sustainable choice: When sourced responsibly, wood is one of the most environmentally friendly worktop materials available.

The Best Oils for Your Wooden Worktops

The experienced team from Worktop Hub has shared their opinions on the various oils used for maintaining your wooden worktops. Here’s a look at their picks and which is best.

Olive Oil

Description: Natural, but not too protective

Best for: Wooden chopping boards

Olive oil is one of the oldest tricks in the book for surfaces, and while it’s perfectly safe for food preparation, it doesn’t create a long-lasting protective barrier against moisture and germs. Olive Oil is best used in the treatment of smaller objects, such as wooden chopping boards. For kitchen worktops, olive oil tends to stay tacky, which can attract dust and even encourage bacteria growth over time.

Linseed Oil 

Description: Classic and reliable

Best for: Hardwoods

Pure linseed oil is a traditional choice that soaks deep into the timber, nourishing it from within. It’s great for hardwoods like oak or beech and gives a natural, slightly warm finish. Linseed oil does take a while to dry and usually needs several coats to build up proper protection.

Pro tip: Re-oil every few months to maintain that smooth, sealed finish.

Danish Oil  

Description: The popular all-rounder

Best for: Busy kitchens needing durable protection

Danish oil is a blend of linseed oil, varnish, and drying agents, which means you get the best of both worlds: rich colour and a tough, water-resistant finish. It dries faster than linseed oil and gives a soft sheen that’s easy to maintain. However, it still needs a top-up every few months to stay in top shape.

Teak Oil 

Description: Durable with a glossy finish

Best for: Dark or exotic woods

Despite the name, teak oil isn’t made from teak, but it’s designed to protect dense woods like it. This oil forms a strong barrier against moisture and wear, though it often leaves a glossy finish that not everyone loves. If you prefer a natural matte look, this might not be the one for you.

Osmo Top Oil 

Description: A top choice

Best for: A premium, low-maintenance finish

Osmo Top Oil is a favourite for a reason. This hardwax-oil blend combines natural oils and waxes to create a breathable, microporous finish that won’t peel or crack. It resists stains from coffee, wine, and water, and only needs reapplying about once a year. Osmo Top Oil is also food-safe, easy to use, and available in several finishes, from satin to matt. The only minor downside is a slightly longer drying time, but the protection and finish are worth the wait.

Tips for Oiling Your Worktop

• Clean first: Wipe away grease and dust before applying oil.
• Apply evenly: Use a soft cloth or brush, working with the grain.
• Let it soak: Allow the oil to absorb for about 20 to 30 minutes, then wipe off any excess.
• Multiple coats matter: Most oils perform best after two to three coats.
• Regular maintenance: A light re-oil every few months will keep your surface looking its best.

Expert Worktop Help

A beautifully oiled wooden worktop can transform your kitchen with the right oil, bringing out the best in the wood grain while protecting the surface for years to come. If your worktop is beyond repair or you’re dreaming of a complete refresh, explore Worktop Hub’s range of solid wood, laminate, and composite worktops. Or, you can learn how to restore wooden kitchen worktops with our helpful guide.