Life in the Canary Islands means sun, sea, and a unique quality of life. To ensure your handmade wooden products remain beautiful and functional long-term, we’ll show you the most important care tips for our climate.
Why Wood Care in the Canary Islands is Important
The climate in the Canary Islands is special: high humidity and intense sunlight can stress wood if it's not properly cared for:
- Humidity: Wood can swell or warp
- Dryness: Without care, wood becomes brittle and cracked
- UV Radiation: Can fade the natural color
The good news: With proper care, your wood will last for decades – whether in Tenerife, Gran Canaria, or La Palma!
Which Types of Wood Are Particularly Robust?
Not all woods are equally well-suited for the Canary Islands' climate. Here are the top candidates:
1. Iroko – The Classic for the Canary Islands
- Naturally oily → protects itself from moisture
- Extremely hard and durable
- Resistant to fungi and insects
- Perfect for cutting boards, serving boards, and decorative items
2. Teak – The Luxury All-Rounder
Teak is known for its resistance and durability. Ideal for high-quality furniture and kitchen utensils.
3. Oak – Traditional and Robust
Oak is hard and durable, but requires regular maintenance to remain optimal in a humid climate.
Our Tip: At Canary Soulmade Crafts, we primarily use Iroko because it's perfect for the Canary Islands!
Step-by-Step: How to Properly Care for Wood Products
Step 1: Regular Cleaning
After each use (for kitchen utensils):
- Wipe with a damp cloth (no soaking!)
- For stubborn stains: Use mild dish soap
- Immediately wipe dry – never leave water standing
For decorative items:
- Regularly dust with a soft, dry cloth
- If necessary, wipe lightly with a damp cloth and dry immediately
Important: Never put wooden boards in the dishwasher! The heat and water will cause the wood to swell and crack.
Step 2: Oiling (every 4–6 weeks for kitchen utensils, every 3–6 months for decor)
Oiling is the most important step to keep wood protected and beautiful:
- Clean and dry the wood (at least 2 hours)
- Generously apply linseed oil or special wood care oil
- Rub with a soft cloth in the direction of the grain
- Let it soak in overnight
- Wipe off excess oil the next day
Our Secret Tip: Our in-house Board Butter is specially developed for wood products – 100% organic and made from local ingredients from the Canary Islands!
Step 3: Proper Storage & Placement
- Do not place in direct sun (fades and dries out)
- Store in a well-ventilated area (prevents mold)
- Not in closed cabinets without air circulation
- Cutting boards are best stored upright on their long grain or hung
Avoid Common Mistakes
❌ Mistake 1: Too much water
Wood swells and can crack. Always wipe only with a damp cloth, never soak.
❌ Mistake 2: Oiling too rarely
Without regular oiling, wood dries out and becomes brittle – especially in our sunny climate.
❌ Mistake 3: Using the wrong oils
Avoid perfumed oils or mineral oils. Only use food-safe oils like linseed oil.
❌ Mistake 4: Cleaning in the dishwasher
This is the quickest way to ruin wooden boards!
❌ Mistake 5: Direct sunlight
Avoid placing wooden products permanently in direct sunlight.
When Do I Need to Replace My Wood Product?
Even with the best care, every wood product eventually reaches the end of its life. Replace it if:
- Deep cracks have formed (for kitchen utensils: risk of bacteria)
- Mold is visible and cannot be removed
- The wood is severely warped
- An unpleasant odor persists, even after cleaning (for cutting boards)
Good to know: A well-maintained Iroko or oak board can last 20+ years!
Summary: Your Care Checklist
✅ After each use: Wipe with a damp cloth and dry immediately
✅ Oil regularly: Kitchen utensils every 4–6 weeks, decor every 3–6 months
✅ Storage: Well-ventilated, not in direct sun
✅ Never: Put in the dishwasher or soak
✅ Choose wood type: Iroko is ideal for the Canary Islands
👉 Discover our handmade Iroko wood cutting boards
Conclusion: Durable Wood Products in the Canary Islands
With proper care and the right types of wood, you can enjoy your handmade wooden products for decades, even in the Canary Islands. Iroko wood is your best friend – robust, beautiful, and perfect for our climate.
Do you have questions about caring for your wood products? Send us an email at info@canary-soulmade-crafts.com – we're happy to help!
Canary Soulmade Crafts – Handmade wooden products from La Palma, perfect for the Canary Islands.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often do I need to oil my wooden cutting board in the Canary Islands?
With regular use, every 4–6 weeks. More often in dry climates or with strong sun exposure – the wood will tell you: if it looks dull and dry, it's time to oil.
Which oil is best for wooden cutting boards?
Food-safe linseed oil or special wood care oil. Never olive oil – it goes rancid. Our Board Butter made from local ingredients is ideal.
Can I put my wooden board in the dishwasher?
No, never. The combination of heat and water will cause the wood to swell, crack, and warp – the board will be unusable afterward.
Which wood is best suited for the climate in the Canary Islands?
Iroko is the best choice: naturally oily, resistant to moisture and UV radiation, and extremely durable. Ideal for Tenerife, Gran Canaria, La Palma, and all other islands.
How long does a well-maintained wooden cutting board last?
With proper care, 20 years or more. Iroko wood is particularly durable and can even be passed down to the next generation.
Where can I buy handmade wooden products in the Canary Islands?
At Canary Soulmade Crafts – handmade in La Palma, with delivery to all Canary Islands.