Choosing the right cutting board is essential for both food safety and culinary efficiency. Among the various materials available, plastic cutting boards are popular for their ease of cleaning and maintenance. However, using them incorrectly can lead to hygiene issues and damage to the board itself. This article will guide you on the proper uses and maintenance practices for plastic cutting boards to ensure they remain functional and safe for food preparation.
Learn the dos and donts, along with tips to prolong the life of your plastic cutting board.
Table of Contents
10 Best Plastic Cutting Board Options for Every Kitchen
When it comes to kitchen essentials, a reliable cutting board is a must-have. The 10 best plastic cutting board options we’ve reviewed are not only durable and easy to clean, but they also come in various sizes and colors to fit your culinary needs and aesthetic preferences.
Their non-porous surfaces prevent bacteria buildup, ensuring safer food preparation. Plus, these cutting boards are lightweight, making them easy to handle, and many are dishwasher-safe for convenience. Enhance your cooking experience with a top-quality plastic cutting board that combines functionality, hygiene, and style.
1. Winco 12×18 Cutting Board
| Size |
12×18 inches |
|---|---|
| Material |
Polyethylene |
| Temperature Range |
176-196°F |
| Surface Type |
Non-porous |
| Cleaning Method |
Dishwasher-safe |
| Certification |
NSF certified |
Overview:
The Winco CBWT-1218 Cutting Board is a versatile and durable kitchen essential, measuring 12 by 18 inches and 1/2 inch thick. Constructed from high-quality polyethylene plastic, this cutting board is designed to withstand temperatures ranging from 176 to 196 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for a variety of tasks in the kitchen. Its non-porous surface ensures that it won’t stain or absorb juices, providing a hygienic workspace for food preparation. Additionally, this cutting board is dishwasher-safe and NSF certified, ensuring ease of cleaning and compliance with health standards.
Pros:
– Durable polyethylene construction that resists warping and cracking.
– Non-porous surface prevents stains and retains freshness.
– Dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning and maintenance.
– NSF certified, ensuring it meets strict safety and sanitation standards.
– Ideal temperature range makes it versatile for various cooking needs.
Cons:
– The lighter color may show scratches and wear over time, which could impact its aesthetic appeal.
– Its size might be too small for larger meal prep tasks, but it is perfect for everyday use.
2. Kikcoin 3-Piece Cutting Board Set
| Set Size |
3 Pieces |
|---|---|
| Material |
High-Density Plastic |
| Non-Slip Features |
Rubber Feet |
| Juice Groove |
Deep Groove |
| Dishwasher Safe |
Yes |
| Knife-Friendly |
Yes |
Overview:
The Kikcoin Plastic Cutting Boards set is an essential addition to any kitchen, featuring three durable boards of varying sizes to accommodate all your culinary needs. From carving a turkey on the large board to chopping vegetables and fruits on the medium and small boards, these cutting boards are designed to enhance your food preparation experience. With non-slip surfaces, rubber feet for stability, a deep juice groove for mess-free cutting, and dishwasher-safe convenience, this set promises to make kitchen tasks easier and more enjoyable.
Pros:
– Versatile sizing options (large, medium, and small) cater to various food prep tasks.
– Non-slip surface design ensures safety while cutting slippery items like raw meat and fish.
– Rubber feet provide added stability and prevent the boards from sliding around.
– Deep juice grooves are perfect for containing liquids from meats, minimizing mess during preparation.
– Sturdy construction allows for easy cleaning, both by hand and in the dishwasher, while maintaining shape during use.
– Noise-reduction feature prevents loud clacking sounds, making for a quieter kitchen experience.
Cons:
– While the boards are durable, they may need proper care to avoid scratches and preserve their appearance over time.
– The non-slip texture, although effective, may require occasional cleaning to maintain its grip for optimal performance.
3. OXO Good Grips Cutting Boards
| Size |
7.25″x10.75″ & 9″x12.9″ |
|---|---|
| Material |
Plastic |
| Dishwasher Safe |
Yes |
| Non-slip Feet |
Yes |
| Double-sided |
Yes |
| Integrated Drip-Catchers |
Yes |
Overview:
The OXO Good Grips 2-Piece Plastic Cutting Board Set is a highly functional and user-friendly addition to any kitchen. This set includes a smaller 7.25-in x 10.75-in Prep Board, perfect for trimming vegetables, and a larger 9-in x 12.9-in Everyday Board, designed for preparing full meals. Both boards feature double-sided, non-porous surfaces that resist odors and won’t dull your knife blades. With soft, tapered edges that form comfortable handles, these boards are easy to carry and a breeze to clean as they are dishwasher safe. Integrated drip-catchers and easy-pour corners help minimize messes, while non-slip feet keep the boards stable during use.
Pros:
– Versatile sizes suitable for different prep tasks.
– Double-sided use maximizes functionality and reduces the need for multiple boards.
– Non-porous surfaces resist odors and don’t dull knives, ensuring long-lasting performance.
– Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning and maintenance.
– Non-slip feet provide stability during chopping, enhancing safety.
Cons:
– While the lightweight design makes them easy to handle, some users might prefer a heavier board for increased stability during vigorous chopping.
– The plastic material, although durable, may not provide the same cutting experience as wooden or bamboo boards.
4. THETCHRY BPA-Free Cutting Board Set
| Material |
BPA Free |
|---|---|
| Size Options |
3 Sizes |
| Ease of Cleaning |
Dishwasher Safe |
| Anti-Slip Features |
Double Anti-Slip |
| Portability |
Lightweight |
| Customer Support |
24/7 Service |
Overview:
The THETCHRY Plastic Cutting Board Set features three versatile cutting boards designed for various kitchen tasks, catering to different food preparation needs. Made from high-quality, BPA-free plastic, these durable boards are built to withstand the rigors of everyday chopping, slicing, and dicing. With a focus on safety and usability, the boards come equipped with non-slip surfaces and convenient grip handles for easy handling. Their reversible design and multiple sizes help prevent cross-contamination, making them suitable for both at-home cooking and outdoor adventures like camping and picnics.
Pros:
– Durable and Long-lasting: Made from high-quality food-grade plastic, these boards resist bending and breaking, ensuring a long lifespan even with frequent use.
– Variety of Sizes: With three different sizes available, you can easily manage various types of food, from cutting meat to preparing vegetables, while maintaining hygiene.
– Easy to Clean: The dishwasher-safe feature simplifies the post-cooking cleanup process, and the BPA-free material allows for safe washing by hand.
– Non-slip Design: Equipped with rubber anti-slip feet and a unique anti-slip particle area, these boards provide stability, enhancing safety during food preparation.
– Portable and Practical: Lightweight and easy to carry, they are perfect for use both at home and on the go, making them an excellent choice for outdoor activities.
Cons:
– Coloring: While the green coloring is attractive, some users may prefer a more neutral color scheme to match their kitchen decor.
– Thickness: Although the boards are designed for durability, some users may feel that a slightly thicker design could provide even more stability during heavy chopping tasks.
5. OXO Good Grips Cutting Board
| Size |
14.7 x 10.3 |
|---|---|
| Material |
Plastic |
| Double-sided |
Yes |
| Non-slip |
Yes |
| Dishwasher safe |
Yes |
| Drip-catcher |
Integrated |
Overview:
The OXO Good Grips Plastic Utility Cutting Board measures 14.7 x 10.3 inches, making it an excellent choice for preparing larger meals. Its double-sided, non-porous surface helps resist odors and protects your knife blades from dulling. The soft, tapered edges are designed to provide comfortable handles for easy carrying, while integrated drip-catchers and easy-pour corners reduce mess and facilitate safer transferring of ingredients. With non-slip feet ensuring stability during use, this cutting board is both durable and dishwasher safe, offering convenience and practicality in any kitchen setting.
Pros:
– Spacious size allows for handling larger food items efficiently
– Double-sided design maximizes usability and minimizes clean-up needs
– Non-porous surface ensures hygiene and blade protection
– Comfortable handles and integrated drip-catchers enhance usability
– Non-slip feet provide stability during meal prep
– Dishwasher safe for easy maintenance
Cons:
– While its size is great for larger meals, it may be too large for those with limited counter space
– The plastic material, although durable, may not provide the same aesthetic appeal as wooden cutting boards
6. Farberware Reversible Cutting Board
| Material |
Polypropylene |
|---|---|
| Size |
8×10 Inch |
| Design |
Reversible |
| Maintenance |
Dishwasher Safe |
| Functionality |
Knife-Friendly |
| Portability |
Compact |
Overview:
The Farberware Reversible Plastic Cutting Board is a versatile kitchen essential designed for daily chopping, slicing, and preparing a variety of ingredients including meats, fruits, and vegetables. Constructed from high-quality, BPA-free polypropylene plastic, this cutting board is non-absorbent and resistant to odors and stains, ensuring a hygienic food prep surface. Featuring a reversible design, the board offers double the cutting space, enhancing convenience with a hand hole for better control. Compact and lightweight at 8×10 inches, it is easy to store and dishwasher safe for effortless cleanup.
Pros:
– Versatile Use: Perfect for cutting a variety of foods, making it suitable for any cooking task.
– Durable Material: The premium polypropylene plastic is robust, non-porous, and resistant to odors and stains, ensuring a long-lasting product.
– Reversible Design: Offers double the cutting surface, maximizing functionality in your kitchen.
– Knife-Friendly: The gentle surface helps maintain sharpness on your knives, reducing wear over time.
– Compact & Easy to Clean: Its small size fits well in any kitchen and is dishwasher safe for quick and easy maintenance.
Cons:
– Size Limitation: While the compact 8×10 inch size is great for storage, it may not be sufficient for larger meal prep tasks or for slicing larger items.
– Stability: Some users may find that a heavier cutting board provides better stability during use, so if you prefer a more substantial board, this might feel a bit lightweight for you.
7. Flexible BPA-Free Cutting Boards
| Size |
Large Enough |
|---|---|
| Color Coding |
Multicolor Set |
| Stability |
Non-slip Design |
| Flexibility |
Easy to Bend |
| Material |
BPA Free |
| Maintenance |
Dishwasher Safe |
Overview:
The 5 Pieces Flexible Cutting Boards are an essential addition to any kitchen. Made from BPA-free plastic, these cutting mats are designed to be durable, safe, and user-friendly. With dimensions of 14.65*11.02 inches, they offer ample space for preparing various ingredients, whether you’re slicing vegetables or chopping meat. The vibrant multicolor design helps to prevent cross-contamination, as each color is dedicated to a specific type of food. The non-slip lattice pattern on the back ensures stability during use, while the flexible material allows for easy transfer of food to pots or pans. Additionally, these cutting boards are dishwasher safe for convenient cleaning.
Pros:
– Large enough size to accommodate various ingredients, making meal preparation more efficient.
– Multicolor set helps avoid cross-contamination by designating different colors for different food types.
– Non-slip design provides stability while cutting, enhancing safety and comfort during use.
– Flexible material allows easy transfer of chopped food, streamlining cooking processes.
– Easy to clean and maintain, as they are dishwasher safe and made from food-grade materials.
Cons:
– The flexibility, while advantageous, may require some adjustment for users who prefer traditional, rigid cutting boards.
– Although dishwasher safe, care should be taken regarding dishwasher temperature to preserve the integrity of the boards over time.
8. Large Dark Grey Cutting Boards
| Size Variety |
3 Sizes |
|---|---|
| Material |
High-density Plastic |
| Juice Groove |
Built-in |
| Durability |
Heavy-duty |
| Easy Cleaning |
Dishwasher Safe |
| Gift Idea |
Multiple Occasions |
Overview:
The Extra Large Cutting Boards set, available in Dark Grey, offers a versatile solution for all your kitchen chopping needs. This set includes three boards of varying sizesExtra Large (17.0×11.8×0.4 inches), Large (14.0×9.5×0.35 inches), and Medium (11.4×7.8×0.35 inches)each designed for specific types of food, ensuring efficiency and organization in meal preparation. Crafted from high-density plastic for exceptional durability, these boards resist stains and withstand even the heaviest chopping. Each board features a built-in juice groove to prevent liquids from spilling onto your countertop, while the TPR edge handles add stability and convenience during use. Easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher, this cutting board set is an ideal gift for anyone who enjoys cooking.
Pros:
– Versatile sizes allow for separate cutting to enhance kitchen efficiency.
– Made from high-density plastic for long-lasting use and resistance to stains.
– Built-in juice groove helps keep the countertop clean.
– TPR edge handles provide stability and convenience during food preparation.
– Easily cleaned by hand or dishwasher, simplifying kitchen maintenance.
– Perfect gift option for various occasions, making it a thoughtful choice.
Cons:
– The plastic material, while durable, may not provide the same cutting experience as wooden or bamboo boards for some users who prefer a different surface feel.
– Users with limited kitchen storage might find the larger sizes require more space than expected.
9. Farberware Dishwasher-Safe Cutting Board
| Material |
Polypropylene |
|---|---|
| Reversible |
Yes |
| Size |
11″x14″ |
| Easy to Clean |
Dishwasher Safe |
| Non-absorbent |
Yes |
| Versatile Use |
Meats & Veggies |
Overview:
The Farberware Large Cutting Board is a versatile kitchen essential designed for all your chopping needs. Crafted from high-quality polypropylene plastic, this cutting board is non-absorbent and nonporous, ensuring it resists stains and keeps your food safe. With a size of 11 inches by 14 inches and a thickness of 0.25 inches, it provides ample space for cutting, slicing, and chopping meats, poultry, fish, and vegetables. Its reversible design maximizes the cutting surface, and the easy grip handle adds control and stability while in use. Plus, clean-up is a breeze as this cutting board is dishwasher safe, making maintenance effortless for busy home cooks.
Pros:
– Made from durable and non-porous polypropylene, ensuring hygiene and resistance to stains.
– Gentle on knife blades, preserving their sharpness for longer.
– Reversible design that provides double the cutting surface.
– Convenient hand hole for better grip and stability during use.
– Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning and maintenance.
Cons:
– While the boards lightweight design offers portability, some users may prefer a heavier board for added stability during cutting.
– The white surface, although aesthetic, may require more frequent cleaning to maintain its appearance after use with colorful ingredients.
10. Gorilla Grip Cutting Board Set
| Durability |
Ultra Durable |
|---|---|
| BPA-Free |
Yes |
| Size |
Large Set |
| Design |
Reversible |
| Slip Resistance |
Yes |
| Maintenance |
Low |
Overview:
The GORILLA GRIP 100% BPA-Free Reversible Kitchen Cutting Board Set consists of three ultra-durable, nonporous boards designed to streamline your food prep experience. Made to withstand the rigors of daily use, these boards wont splinter, crack, or peel, eliminating the need for maintenance and oiling. With deep juice grooves to catch spills and a slip-resistant rubber border for a secure grip, this set offers functionality and ease of use. Each board is generously sized and reversible, allowing you to chop on both sides while preventing flavor mingling. Dishwasher safe and food grade compliant, these cutting boards are a great choice for any kitchen.
Pros:
– Ultra-durable and long-lasting construction ensures no splintering or cracking, making it ideal for regular use.
– Deep juice grooves effectively capture liquid runoff, keeping your countertop clean and tidy.
– Slip-resistant handle border adds stability and safety during food preparation, reducing the risk of accidents.
– Generously sized and thicker than many competitors, offering ample space for cutting and chopping tasks.
– Reversible design allows for versatile use while preventing flavor transfer between ingredients.
– BPA-free and food-safe, complying with U.S. regulations for peace of mind when cooking.
Cons:
– While the substantial thickness adds durability, some users may find the boards slightly heavier and may prefer lighter options for easy handling.
– The black color, while sleek, may show scratches and wear more visibly over time compared to lighter-colored boards.
Additional Guide
Introduction: What Is a Plastic Cutting Board?
A plastic cutting board is a kitchen essential designed for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients while protecting countertops and knives. Made from durable, food-safe plastic materials like polyethylene or polypropylene, these boards are lightweight, easy to clean, and affordable. Theyre ideal for home cooks, professional chefs, and anyone who frequently prepares meals.
Key Features and Benefits
Plastic cutting boards offer several advantages that make them a popular choice:
- Durability: Resistant to scratches and cracks, especially when made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE).
- Hygienic: Non-porous surfaces prevent bacteria buildup and are dishwasher-safe for thorough cleaning.
- Lightweight: Easy to handle and store, unlike heavier wooden or bamboo boards.
- Affordability: Budget-friendly compared to other materials like wood or glass.
- Color-Coding Options: Many come in different colors to prevent cross-contamination (e.g., red for meat, green for veggies).
Comparison with Similar Products
Heres how plastic cutting boards stack up against alternatives:
- Wooden Cutting Boards: More knife-friendly and naturally antimicrobial but require regular oiling and are harder to sanitize.
- Bamboo Cutting Boards: Eco-friendly but prone to warping and can dull knives faster than plastic.
- Glass Cutting Boards: Non-porous and easy to clean but harsh on knife edges and slippery during use.
Use Cases: How to Use a Plastic Cutting Board
Plastic cutting boards are versatile for everyday kitchen tasks:
- Meat Preparation: Use a designated board (often red) to avoid cross-contamination.
- Vegetable Chopping: Lightweight and easy to maneuver for quick meal prep.
- Baking Tasks: Ideal for rolling dough or cutting pastry without sticking.
Tip: Replace your plastic board if deep grooves develop, as they can harbor bacteria.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easy to clean and sanitize.
- Budget-friendly and widely available.
- Lightweight and portable.
Cons:
- Can develop deep cuts over time, requiring replacement.
- Less eco-friendly than wood or bamboo (unless recycled).
- May warp if exposed to high heat (e.g., dishwasher drying cycle).
Final Thoughts: Is a Plastic Cutting Board Right for You?
Plastic cutting boards are a practical choice for most kitchens due to their affordability, hygiene, and ease of use. While they may not last as long as premium wooden boards, their low cost and convenience make them a staple for everyday cooking. If you prioritize easy maintenance and food safety, a plastic cutting board is a reliable optionjust remember to replace it when worn out.
FAQs: plastic cutting board
What are the advantages of using plastic cutting boards?
Plastic cutting boards are lightweight, non-porous, and easy to clean. They are less likely to harbor bacteria compared to wooden boards and can be placed in the dishwasher for sanitization.
How do I choose the right size plastic cutting board?
Consider the space available in your kitchen and the types of food you prepare. A larger board is useful for big cutting tasks, while smaller boards are convenient for quick jobs and easier to store.
Are all plastic cutting boards safe for food contact?
Not all plastic cutting boards are food-safe. Always look for boards made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene, which are commonly recognized as safe for food preparation.
Can plastic cutting boards warp or get scratched?
Yes, plastic cutting boards can warp under high heat and can become scratched with heavy use. To extend their life, avoid cutting on extremely hot surfaces and use a gentle knife to minimize scratches.
How often should I replace my plastic cutting board?
Replace your plastic cutting board once it starts to show significant wear, such as deep scars or discoloration, or if it becomes difficult to sanitize effectively. Generally, every 1-2 years is a good timeline, depending on usage.
