HDPE (High-Density Poly Ethylene) cutting boards are an absolute necessity in the foodservice industry. We pride ourselves on being providers of high-quality, durable cutting boards safe for every kitchen. HDPE (or plastic) cutting boards are helpful in so many ways, such as preventing cross-contamination, easy cleaning, simple storage and organization, and more. With so many benefits comes the responsibility of caring for them correctly - and knowing when to replace them. Below we’ll explain why you should NOT resurface your HDPE cutting board.

If you use HDPE cutting boards often, you know that scratch marks will build up over time, creating space for bacteria to grow on your boards. Many believe that sanding down or resurfacing their plastic cutting boards is an excellent solution for a scratched HDPE cutting board, but this is not the case. Here are a few reasons you shouldn't attempt resurfacing your HDPE boards.

Loss of texture

When you purchase a new HDPE cutting board, the surface is made with a semi-rough texture on one side of the board to prevent food from moving while prepping dishes. Sanding or resurfacing these boards will remove any texture from the boards, making them dangerous for chopping and slicing.

Knife Slippings

As stated previously, loss of texture due to sanding your board will make it very smooth, which can be dangerous. The slightly rough surface prevents knives from slipping while cutting your ingredients; therefore, if you lose the texture on your boards, you are more likely to lose control of your knife and possibly cut your fingers or hands.

Sanding Creates Bacteria

Although sanding down your cutting board seems to eliminate all scratches, this creates more minor cuts on the HDPE board for food to become trapped in. When food particles are trapped in these boards, they are usually missed during cleaning and begin to grow harmful bacteria. Rather than allowing this to happen and transferring harmful bacteria through the food you serve to customers, be safe and order new custom HDPE cutting boards.

When stains and smells become apparent, keep your kitchen safe and purchase new HDPE cutting boards rather than trying to resurface them. If you're in need of new HDPE cutting boards at great prices, shop our collection here at Cutting Board Company! Check out a few of our best selling HDPE boards below.