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We can’t overemphasize the importance of a good wooden cutting board over something basic like plastic. Not only is wood a lot safer for our families, with fewer risks of chemicals leeching into food, but it feels and looks so much nicer. There are some beautiful cutting boards, butchers’ blocks, and other useful tools made from acacia that should prove to be attractive, practical, and durable alternatives to plastic.
In this guide, I have compiled short reviews of 9 of the best acacia wood cutting boards with their best features and some potential issues to watch out for. This should help you compare different options and designs. Before that, let’s look at some of the different styles of cutting board on the market and key features and considerations to watch out for.
Which is the best type of acacia wood cutting board for your needs?
In this guide, I have broken down my choice of products into three categories. There are:
1) Standard edge grain acacia cutting boards
2) End grain acacia cutting boards
3) Sets of acacia cutting boards.
Edge grain cutting boards are the most common style around because it is easier to manufacture these products. The cut of the wood follows the grain like you would see on a typical plank of wood. Therefore, you can carve a board out of one piece of a tree trunk or a small number of pieces of timber. You will find a lot of these online and the choice then comes down to extra features, which I will discuss further below.
The alternative way to manufacture a cutting board is to use end-grain pieces. This means creating a board with a lot more pieces of wood. This time-consuming process can add to the cost. But, the boards are also said to be more durable and effective for them.
I have another guide on the best end grain cutting boards that looks at a range of products using different types of wood. Below, you will find three specifically made from acacia.
Finally, I want to highlight a few different sets of boards. I appreciate that one large butcher’s block isn’t going to be ideal for all users. It will depend on what you plan to make. A range of sizes can make things much easier and you can work on meat, vegetables, and other ingredients separately without the risk of contamination.
Important considerations when choosing the best acacia cutting boards for your kitchen.
Before we take a closer look at some of the best products available right now, let’s look at some of the key factors to look at.
1) Is the board big enough for your needs?
Size does make a difference when choosing the best cutting board for your needs. There are three dimensions here. The length of the board is important, especially when considering using this as a platter for serving food to guests. 16 inches is a good average.
Then there is the width, which helps determine how much food you can accommodate, such as the size of a turkey for carving. Then there is the depth. Some cutting boards are butchers’ blocks that are thicker and more substantial.
2) Is the board a 2-in-1 model?
There aren’t that many 2-in-1 models in this guide because the standard design is for a board that is reversible with two identical sides. However, some brands go a lot further by providing alternate sides with clever features. Some may have the meat-cutting side with a juice groove and then a flatter side.
Others will have special features that make the alternate side better as a serving platter. This is why it helps to shop around and compare feature lists before committing to a product.
3) Does the board have any extra features to make your job in the kitchen a lot easier?
It isn’t just the juice groove to look out for here. Those grooves are ideal for dealing with meat, but what about if you had a spout run-off in the corner for cleaning? The use of handles is more common and more practical.
These come in all different shapes and styles. Inset handles are popular because this hides the handle for a cleaner look to the board. Others may have handles that allow you to hang the board up or maybe stronger handles made of metal.
4) Is the board durable enough to resist scratches and ongoing wear?
This is something that is impossible to tell from the product listing. Naturally, brands will say that their products are long-lasting and perhaps even offer a year’s guarantee to sweeten the deal. However, the best way to learn about the longevity of these boards is to read user reviews.
These testimonials give first-hand accounts of using the boards in real life. Some stories are much better than others. Oiling and maintenance can make a difference, as you will see later.
5) Does it look nice?
One of the reasons for turning to a quality acacia wood cutting board over a cheaper bit of hardwood is that it tends to look a lot nicer. You can get some beautiful tones to this wood and the impact of this in the design will depend on the craftsmanship of those working for the brand.
You can get a clean, uniform finish or something with a better pattern. End grain boards tend to have better patterns because of the way the wood is cut and formed. There is a great example of this below with a herringbone pattern.
6) Is the board within budget?
Finally, there is the issue of cost. Prices can vary a lot here. Acacia isn’t as expensive as some other woods because of its accessibility. But, an end-grain butchers’ block from a desirable brand could cost a lot more than a simple edge grain board from a lesser-known option. This could be the difference between a $20 bargain and a $100 investment piece.
With these considerations in mind, I have compiled a selection of acacia wood cutting boards with the aim of showcasing different styles and approaches. Each has its pros and cons, so you can compare your options and see which is the best fit.
The best edge grain acacia wood cutting boards
1) Canwell Premium 16″x12″ Acacia Wood Cutting Board
The pros and cons of this acacia wood cutting board.
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]The 2-in-1 solution is more convenient for a lot of users
The surface area is fine for most needs
You also get some handles for added ease of use [/i2pros][i2cons]Are you settling when you could have a more attractive end grain solution?[/i2cons][/i2pc]
What I like best about this option is that you get a 2-in-1 solution rather than a more standard chopping board. There are times when a juice groove is really helpful and others when it would be nicer to have something flatter when dealing with masses of vegetables.
This one lets you alternate between the two as needed. You can flip over the meat side and cut your sides instead of having to use a separate board. In addition to this, you also get handles to make it easier to carry. The 16 by 12-inch surface area should also be fine for most needs.
There isn’t much to say against this board really because all the right features are there if you are looking for something quite simplistic for your basic cutting needs. When you compared it against other edge grain acacia wood cutting boards it is one of the better options because it has that mass appeal.
However, when you start comparing it to some of the heavy-duty end-grain models, it doesn’t look quite so appealing. It all comes down to the look of the wood, the size, and if you are happy to “settle” for this model.
2) HBlife Acacia Wood Cutting Board Extra Thick for Kitchen
The pros and cons of this acacia wood cutting board.
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]The low cost compared to other products in this guide
The quality of the wood
The inset handles[/i2pros][i2cons]No juice groove[/i2cons][/i2pc]
This next option is one I included based on the price. Edge grain acacia doesn’t have to cost a fortune and you can get a bargain compared to some of the end grain options. You actually get quite a lot here for the price. There is a nice inset handle for ease of use, the wood is of decent quality, and the size is barely any different from the product above.
What lets this model down the most is the lack of a juice groove. There are lots of companies that will use these grooves as a massive selling point to seem more practical than the competition. However, the truth is that these grooves are increasingly common.
It is more obvious, and therefore disappointing when it isn’t there. I would also understand if a few buyers weren’t as keen on the darker tone of wood here. Some examples could be lighter, as that is the nature of this material, but it isn’t as warm as other options.
3) Sonder Los Angeles, Large Multipurpose Sustainable Acacia Wood Cutting Board
The pros and cons of this acacia wood cutting board.
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]This is very attractive with a nicer tone than some of the other edge grain boards
The additional gift box is a nice touch to make this a little more special
The recessed cracker holder is practical and a unique item in this list[/i2pros][i2cons]Regular maintenance is essential to keep this product looking at its best.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
The last of these edge grain acacia cutting boards is one that has a few extra standout features. I like this one a lot because it is an attractive choice with its tonal wood effect. To make this even more attractive, you can receive it in a gift box and pass it along to loved ones that have a passion for cooking. Another brilliant benefit in choosing this model is that is another 2-in-1 model.
This time, the functionality goes a little further than just providing a different cutting surface. One side is great for the kitchen, with the deep juice groove for preparing meat. The other side is ideal for serving cheese and other goodies as there is a recess in the board that acts as a cracker holder. The size is average at 16 by 12 inches, but this one is nice and thick at 1.5 inches.
This product is one that comes with an important warning from the manufacturers. They state that it is essential that users apply a food-grade mineral oil every 3-4 weeks to keep this board in the best possible condition. On the one hand, this could sound like a massive inconvenience and put a few people off.
On the other, it shows some honesty and gives buyers are better idea of what they are in for. Users of other boards may not have been so well-informed, which may explain the cracks and degradation.
The best end grain acacia wood cutting boards.
1) Hardwood Chef Premium Thick Acacia Wood End Grain Cutting Board
The pros and cons of this acacia wood cutting board.
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]The strong butchers’ block for handling meat with its deep juice groove
The serving function with the handles
The cute gift wrapping with the butchers’ paper and string[/i2pros][i2cons]Some quality control issues to watch out for[/i2cons][/i2pc]
This next option is another one sold as a Butcher Block rather than a typical cutting board. However, the dimensions are a little different from the last edge grin option at16 by 12 by 1 3/4 inches. There are a lot of similarities in terms of the features and purpose. It is ideal for meat with deep juice grooves, but it is also sold “for chopping & serving cheese”.
This is where the non-slip finish and carry handles help further. I love that this one goes a little further than the typical gift box by wrapping the board in butcher paper and tying it with string. It is a cute touch.
Unfortunately, there are some rare comments about poor gluing and cracking in a few of the boards. This suggests quality control issues where some boards weren’t clamped or dried properly in construction, perhaps in a rush to get them out.
To be honest, this is a risk with a lot of these products, especially those that are hand-built with natural wood. Personally, I would say that these potential issues are worth the risk because so many more buyers are enjoying a quality butcher’s block.
2) BILL.F Acacia Wood Kitchen Cutting Board
The pros and cons of this acacia wood cutting board.
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]The tactile look with the herringbone effect in the wood
The slightly larger surface area that could prove useful to keen cooks
The inset handles add to the practical side as a serving platter[/i2pros][i2cons]There is no juice groove, which seems like a big misstep[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Two things stand out to me about this board. The most obvious is the design, as there is a beautiful herringbone effect that makes a big difference to the aesthetic appeal. The pattern makes you want to touch the wood even more and is sure to gain compliments from guests if you use this as a cutting board.
The other less-obvious detail is that the dimensions are marginally bigger. This one is 18 by 13 by 1 inch in size. Those extra inches could make all the difference to some users. Otherwise, it is a pretty standard board with its inset handles.
The negative comments about this board are in a similar vein to those above. There are some occasional issues with the finish of the wood, in terms of its feel and the impact this has on knives.
Then there are the cases of warped wood. As mentioned before with the Sonder Los Angeles board, it is important that buyers take good care of these premium items – which means refraining from getting them too wet and oiling them where necessary. Also, there is no juice groove here, which takes this option down by a point too.
3) THE BLUE OAK COMPANY Premium Large End Grain Acacia Wood Cutting Board
The pros and cons of this acacia wood cutting board.
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]The way that the juice groove ends in a spout for more effective cleaning
The size and general practicality of this board.
The attractive pieces of end grain wood[/i2pros][i2cons]The usual risks about the wood cracking or warping over time without proper care. [/i2cons][/i2pc]
While the option above lost a point by failing to offer a juice groove, this one gains an extra point with its design. I love that not only is there a nice deep groove all around the board, but you also get a spout so that you can drain off the liquid more easily.
There are some users that feel that this could be more practical somehow because of the placement of the spout in the corner. But, I think it is a neat idea that other brands should try to copy or even improve upon. Other benefits are the thickness of the board and the attractive use of end grain wood.
When it comes to the downsides, we find the usual comments on cracks, issues with degradation, warping, etc. There is nothing more to say here that isn’t mentioned above. The same issues of care and maintenance apply.
What I will say is that this one may be a better choice overall because of the way that the benefits and cute perks outweigh those risks. There is a real chance of getting, or even gifting, a beautiful quality item here.
The best sets of acacia cutting boards.
1) Acacia Wooden Cutting Board Chopping Board (Set of 3)
The pros and cons of this acacia wood cutting board.
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]The simplicity of the set for a no-nonsense approach
The dimensions are great for everyday use
The juice grooves are a nice touch[/i2pros][i2cons]A bit boring for use as a serving platter[/i2cons][/i2pc]
I want to start this section with one of the more boring options. This looks pretty plain after looking at those pretty end grain options. But, I know there will be a lot of parents out there looking for a run-of-the-mill set of cutting boards that just happen to be made out of a better quality acacia wood.
This set isn’t going to turn heads but it will help you get through a lot of meat and vegetables. There are also build in juice grooves to make things easier. The three boards measure 16 by 11 inches, 13 by 10 inches, and 11.5 by 7.5 inches. This should be more than enough for most users.
One potential issue that I want to mention here is that the purpose as a serving board may be oversold. There are lots of great cutting boards that double up as serving platters because of their size, strength, and beautiful designs.
This one, not so much. This is partly because of the aesthetics and the duller look of the wood. It is also partly due to the lack of handles, which makes it a little less user-friendly.
2) HBlife Extra Thick Acacia Wood Cutting Board
The pros and cons of this acacia wood cutting board
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]The cutting boards are larger than some others for more workspace
The angular handles should be great for transporting the board around
You can also hang the boards up[/i2pros][i2cons]The look of the boards seems to fade dramatically after use [/i2cons][/i2pc]
This next set is another set of three. They are sold as large cutting boards and this is true when comparing these models to other sets around. You get boards that are 16 by 12 inches, 14 by 10 inches, and 12 by 8 inches. This means each board should be practical for various needs.
My favorite thing about this set is the design of the handles. Not only does the angular design look great, but the handles are large enough to be practical. You should be able to carry them with ease and hang them out of the way when clean.
It is a shame to have to talk about the risks involved here because this is such a great set with all those great features. Unfortunately, there are a few buyers that say that these boards quickly lose their appeal and warp without due care.
Again, this is something that could possibly be avoided with oiling and better cleaning practices. Still, the drop-off is so dramatic for some users that it is still a cause for concern.
3) Wwoodsun Acacia Wood Cutting Board Set of 3
The pros and cons of this acacia wood cutting board.
[i2pc pros_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-up” cons_icon=”icon icon-thumbs-down” show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]The minimalist design
The dimensions are better suited for those making smaller portions
The little holes to hang the boards up after use.[/i2pros][i2cons]There isn’t much to these boards in terms of features or interest[/i2cons][/i2pc]
This final set is smaller by comparison. The large version is just 13 inches across, the medium one is 11 inches, and the smallest just 8 inches. This last one is still useful for the right job. There is a simplicity to this design that I like. If you want something minimalist that won’t take up a lot of space or shout across the room with its tonal herringbone design, this could be a better choice.
I feel bad putting this set last as I feel it is a bit of a let-down compared to the practical set above. While there is that nice minimalist look to the boards, this does then lead to some potential issues with a lack of features.
The most practical aspect of this set is the little hole in the corner. This means that you can hand the boards up on a hook on a wall and show them off, rather than try and find cupboard space. But, that is it. There are no handles, grooves, or anything else.
Frequently asked questions about using and caring for acacia wood cutting boards.
1) Is acacia wood good for cutting boards?
Yes. There are lots of reasons why people turn to acacia wood cutting boards. One reason is that you end up with stronger and more durable wood than some cheaper options. Then there is the fact that the wood looks great when treated well and shaped by true craftsmen.
Finally, acacia is seen as one of the more sustainable options because it is more plentiful and fast-growing. With all that said, however, those that really love their cutting boards do recommend other wood like teak because of its look, quality, and durability.
2) How do I clean my acacia cutting board?
The act of cleaning an acacia wood cutting board isn’t straightforward. You might be used to putting your “normal” board in the sink with the dishes and rinsing it off. But, the problem there is that too much water can saturate the wood and lead it to warp and crack.
That is possibly why so many users mentioned above-had issues with their boards. Instead, you should wipe it down gently with a slightly damp cloth and make sure it dries properly. The less water you use, the better. Never put it in the dishwasher.
3) Does acacia wood dull knives?
A well-made acacia wood cutting board shouldn’t dull the blade of a knife. The surface should be dense and smooth enough not to take damage from the knife and not to cause any abrasion to the metal in return.
However, there are cases where users notice the blade becoming dull after repeated use. This could depend on how you use the blade. Are you a bit aggressive with your chopping? It could also depend on the quality of the surface.
4) Can you cut raw meat on a wood cutting board?
Yes. There should be no problem cutting meat on a quality acacia wood cutting board if it has that dense, smooth surface and no obvious cracks anywhere. As you will have seen with the products listed, the best acacia cutting boards have juice grooves to catch the run-off from meat.
Of course, you still need to maintain the best possible hygiene standards when preparing your food. Never use the same side of the board to work on cooked meat after cutting raw meat. Always make sure to clean the board properly after use.
5) Do I need to apply oil on the cutting board before using it?
Some wood cutting boards come pre-oiled and pretreated for the best surface and for the ongoing longevity of the product. From there, you should only need to rub mineral oil into the wood every few weeks or so for maintenance.
If there is no indication that the company used this sort of treatment, it is better to oil the board before use. You may also decide to do this as a precaution before gifting a board like this to someone.
Choosing the best acacia wood cutting board for your needs.
As you can see, there are lots of different options that you can choose from here. You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a nice-looking edge grain acacia board with some helpful features. But, you might decide that a more expensive end grain option is worth it for the look and the promise of better durability.
It all depends on how much you plan to use the board and what you will cook. Is a hefty, robust butcher’s block the more practical choice in the long run? Or, is a more basic set better for casual use? Take your time to compare your options and see which works for you.
