Wooden Kitchen Care Guide – Maintenance Tips for Oak

A wooden kitchen is a living surface that ages with grace when cared for correctly. At Kongacph, we work exclusively with oak for its strength, character, and ability to tell a story over time. With the right attention, your oak kitchen will last for generations, growing richer and more beautiful with each passing year.

Wooden Kitchen Care

Clean with Care

Daily maintenance starts with simple, gentle cleaning.
Use a soft cloth or sponge with mild and warm water.
Wipe up spills immediately — oak is durable but prolonged moisture exposure can leave marks.
Harsh chemicals or abrasive pads are not recommended. It can strip natural oils and scratch the surface.
Tip: Keep a microfiber cloth, dedicated for your wooden kitchen care, in a drawer so quick wipe-downs become part of your daily routine.

Wooden Kitchen Care

Oiling for Protection

Oak is naturally resilient, but periodic oiling keeps it nourished and protected. 
At Kongacph we use a plant-based oil suitable for kitchen surfaces — we collaborated with OSMO oil, which we use in our own finishing process.
Apply oil 1 time a year, or when the surface starts to feel dry.
Work in the direction of the wood grain, allowing the oil to absorb before wiping off excess.
Tip: Choose a matte oil to keep the natural, tactile feel of oak.

Wooden Kitchen Care

Prevent Heat & Moisture Damage

Always use trivets or mats under hot pots and pans.
Don’t leave wet cloths or sponges on the surface.
Ensure good ventilation in the kitchen to reduce steam buildup, especially near dishwashers and kettles.

Deal with Stains & Scratches the Right Way

Light stains: Gently rub with a soft cloth and a drop of mild soap.
Deeper stains or scratches: Lightly sand along the grain, then reapply oil.
Avoid aggressive scrubbing — let the wood’s natural patina develop; it adds character over time.

Seasonal Check-Ups

Solid oak wood moves slightly with temperature and humidity changes.
Twice a year:
Check cabinet doors for alignment.
Tighten any internal fittings if needed.
Re-oil exposed edges or high-use areas.

Wooden Kitchen Care

Why Maintenance Matters

A well-cared-for oak kitchen will reward you with decades of service and a surface that tells the story of your home. Oak matures beautifully, and each mark, grain line, and patina layer becomes part of its character.