Are marble cutting boards heat resistant?-Let’s resolve the dilemma once and for all!
Most surfaces made of natural stone, including marble, are heat resistant, so this is why they’re common in kitchens (countertops, cutting boards, etc.). They can stand up pretty well to hot pots and pans.
Cutting boards of natural stone are considered exclusive and therefore, on the more expensive side. They look modern and are aesthetically pleasing, but they’re quite heavier and less gentle to the blades of knives.
Still, they’re praised for their durability and the fact that they don’t absorb any unpleasant smells like it’s the case with wood or bamboo. Natural stone is among the more reliable materials out there, but it does have similar pros and cons as glass cutting boards.
They’re ideal as boards for serving food and making dough and candies, that’s for sure!
Is a marble cutting board a deserving investment for you? -Let’s find out together!
Table of Contents
Are Marble Cutting Boards Heat Resistant?
Yes, they are.
Relying on marble cutting boards or countertops in a heatwave is common and they will keep as cool as ice! Being heat resistant, it’s an awesome holder for hot pans and pots, but it can only do so much to a certain temperature.
Although it’s able to resist some degree of heat, avoid putting piping hot stuff on marble because there’s a chance of burning the surface or causing it to discolor. For optimal safety, always use a potholder.
Marble is one of the most impressive and popular stones. It can be pure white or streaked with dramatic veins. Every piece is a work of art and it always adds a touch of elegance to homes, especially kitchens.
A metamorphic rock (rocks that chemically and physically transform over time from heat and pressure), marble starts like limestone, a soft stone from calcite.
The limestone starts to recrystallize under the pressure and heat of the tectonic plates and the crystals from calcite start to spread and interlock.
Marble is naturally found throughout the world, from Canada to North Macedonia, but the most popular types originate from Greece and Italy.
What Are the Pros & Cons of Marble Cutting Boards?
Here are the best reasons to invest in a marble cutting board:
- Heat resistant
Marble cutting boards are great as hot pan and pot holders or trays for hot food. However, despite its resistance to heat, excessive temperatures can eventually cause damage like discoloration or burned spots.
The degree of heat that a marble cutting board can withstand varies among types. Some are said to be able to hold the heat of up to 480 degrees F and some even higher.
- Beautiful appearance
Whether it’s a marble countertop or a cutting board, it definitely adds a lovely accent to your kitchen.
Marble cutting boards can be found in various designs to fit every kitchen model. If you love unique kitchen items, a marble cutting board will amaze you!
- Potent & long-lasting
Marble is strong and durable.
If you don’t have a problem with the occasional scratch that is bound to happen eventually, marble cutting boards are a great investment.
They’re ideal for cooking and as additions to your countertops on which you can knead dough or prep other foods.
They’re also steady as they’re heavier so there will be less sliding or moving which is more common with glass boards.
Marble also possesses natural non-slipping characteristics.
- Simple maintenance requirements
Marble cutting boards are easy to clean.
You can do it with warm water and a stiff brush sponge to remove dirt without causing scratches.
Staining is less common with marble, though not impossible. And, when stains do happen, there are easy tips and tricks to remove them.
- May keep your knives sharp
Though most think the opposite, if your blade is prepped for cutting, the right type of marble cutting board may actually maintain it sharper.
There are also some techniques for cutting and chopping to reduce the risk of the marble damaging the blades.
- They dry fast
Marble cutting boards dry quickly due to their porous nature.
Unlike wood, marble doesn’t absorb liquids easily so the drying is faster.
This also means less unpleasant odors and a lower need for frequent maintenance like bamboo or wooden boards need.
Here are some reasons why it may not be the smartest option to invest in a marble cutting board:
- More expensive
Marble cutting boards can easily cost you $100 or more, depending on the type and seller, as well as the size.
Considering some other options like plastic are more affordable, it may not be the smartest option for people on a budget.
- Can slip when wetted
When wet, a marble cutting board can become slippery. This requires more attention and steadier maneuvers.
This may not be the best option for people with arthritis or other joint or bone issues because they can’t hold the knives strongly and prevent accidents when the board is slippery.
Wiping away the surplus liquids with a towel as you go may help!
- Prone to chipping, cracking, and scratches
If not properly used and maintained, a marble cutting board may get damaged by cracks, scratches, or chips.
With this in mind, it may be smart to use less force when chopping or slicing foods.
- Not the best option for beginners
Using a cutting board from marble requires some learning.
Some time may need to pass before you learn how to adjust your chopping and slicing to the marble surface, that is, to make the motions further away from the surface.
Since there’s no friction between the surface and the food you’re prepping, the slicing, cutting, or chopping may be more frustrating.
But, it all gets easier with practice!
When & How to Clean Your Marble Cutting Boards?
Regular and adequate care for your marble cutting boards will prolong their longevity and keep them beautiful.
Here are some great tips for optimal maintenance of marble cutting boards:
- Clean your marble boards with dish soap and hot water weekly (and after every use)
- Dry them immediately after washing
- Never leave your wet marble boards on countertops; this can encourage mold
- When using sharp objects against it, do it only with the natural flat side of the material
Final Thoughts
Marble cutting boards are impressive and definitely add a striking touch to any type of kitchen.
They’re highly recommendable for cutting softer and semi-softer veggies and fruits, as well as kneading dough or making candies. They’re also heat resistant and highly versatile additions.
However, considering they’re more expensive and require proper maintenance to be kept in top shape, it may not be the best option for everyone, especially people on a budget or those with less experience with marble cutting boards.
