What do you use on wooden salad bowls to seal them before using and dressings?

You have a few good options for sealing wooden salad bowls before using them with dressings:

1. Mineral Oil:

* Pros: Widely available, food-safe, easy to apply, penetrates the wood well.

* Cons: Needs to be reapplied regularly (every few months).

2. Butcher Block Conditioner:

* Pros: Specifically formulated for wood cutting boards and bowls, often contains beeswax for extra protection and a natural sheen.

* Cons: May be more expensive than mineral oil.

3. Food-Grade Beeswax:

* Pros: Natural, creates a water-resistant barrier, adds a nice sheen.

* Cons: Can be more difficult to apply than mineral oil, may require more frequent reapplications.

4. Tung Oil:

* Pros: Durable, water-resistant, creates a beautiful finish.

* Cons: Can be more expensive, requires more steps to apply, may not be suitable for all types of wood.

How to Seal Your Bowl:

1. Clean the Bowl: Wash the bowl with warm soapy water and let it dry completely.

2. Apply the Sealer: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to apply a thin layer of your chosen sealer to the entire surface of the bowl, including the inside and outside.

3. Let it Soak In: Let the sealer sit for at least 30 minutes, or as per the manufacturer's instructions.

4. Wipe Off Excess: Wipe off any excess sealer with a clean cloth.

5. Repeat: Repeat the process at least one more time, and more frequently in the beginning until the wood is well-saturated.

Important Tips:

* Avoid using olive oil or other cooking oils: These oils can go rancid and impart an unpleasant taste to your food.

* Always choose a food-safe sealer.

* Wash your bowl with warm soapy water after each use, and let it dry completely before storing.

* Reapply sealer as needed.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your wooden salad bowl is properly sealed and ready to be enjoyed for many years to come!