How can I prevent my butcher block countertops from turning yellow while maintaining their natural wood color?
Asked by Lena Girard 
8 months ago
Last Updated: May 8, 2024
Oh no! So, I tried using butcher block oil on a test piece and it ended up giving it a yellowish tint. Any ideas on how to finish my butcher block countertops without changing their natural wood color?
I’m not sure about that. Which oil did you apply? Can you tell me the brand?
Recommends Watco butcher block finish.
Some of that stuff dries with a yellow tint. Maybe try using a sanding sealer underneath it. I personally used that over my stain and had no issues.
If you sand it down, apply wood conditioner and polyurethane, then you’re good to go. Just finish it with polyurethane for the best results.
Thanks a lot!
Oil finishes typically result in a yellow hue. One option is to apply a thick layer of polycrylic first, followed by polyurethane on top. Keep in mind, this may not be ideal for food contact due to its plastic nature. Personally, I find the appearance of the test piece more appealing.
I appreciate it. I won’t be using it to prepare food directly 🙂
Consider using a water-based stain instead of an oil-based one. Oil-based stains often result in an amber tint.
Asked, which type of oil did you use? The important thing is to ensure you’re using a food grade oil. The change in tone may just be due to the color of the wood.
I applied mineral oil first, then added a butcher block conditioner on top to maintain the lighter color you want. Remember to reapply the conditioner a few times annually
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I prefer to simply oil mine. It stays free of stains after a few months
You could try using a white-toned wood stain
The natural tones of the wood are being brought out. If you don’t apply a stain, this is the true color of your wood.
We decided to use Waterlox H2OLox Tung Oil stain and sealer, choosing a natural finish. We specifically avoided the amber tint. This treatment really enhanced the natural red tones of the wood we selected! A small amount of each product covered all of our counters multiple times, with some left over. It’s easy to use and food-safe once fully cured.
Check out this improved angle of the countertops to get a better sense of the coverage.
Wow, is stunning, thank you so much!
Unfinished wood tends to develop a yellow/orange hue as it ages. To maintain its raw appearance, the best option is to stain it in that color or seal it with poly (although even that can make it look more blonde).
I appreciate your help
You might want to look into Bona Mega One or Traffic for a finish that is close to being food safe. We use them to treat hardwood floors and they help maintain the raw look of the wood.
We applied a water-based finish to maintain the natural appearance.
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That’s exactly the look I want, . Thank you!
Is this food safe, ?
I’m pretty sure the answer is yes.
Oil clear coats tend to have an amber tint, which is why you might notice a yellow gold tone. You can opt for a water-based sealer instead.
It really depends on your location – in the UK, there’s this Osmo oil that remains mostly transparent. Or you could try Danish oil, but it will give a warmer hue.
I’m currently in the US and I haven’t come across those!
Runs the website Osmocolorusa.com
Thank you, !
Check out Rubio Monocoat.
I’ve been using Howard’s products on mine (typically butcher block conditioner), without any oil, and it remains wonderfully natural and well-maintained. Approaching 4 years without any stains!
Automobile clear coating