Yes, There Is a Right Way to Store Your Cutting Boards
There are many (many) kitchen tool options available out there — but as someone who works in food professionally, I can tell you that just the basic tools are plenty sufficient to cook great food at home. One mainstay of a proper kitchen, however, is a reliable wooden cutting board!
There’s a lot of literature out there about the pros and cons of different types of cutting boards and the materials that they’re made from, but I find that wood is kindest on your knives, looks beautiful, and lasts the longest.
Why You Should Always Store Your Cutting Boards Vertically
Owning a wood cutting board means washing it after each use and oiling it occasionally, but wood is a natural material that can warp when exposed to moisture. Luckily, this can be avoided with proper storage.
After I’ve washed my cutting board, I always make sure to dry it well on both sides, and store it vertically, allowing for airflow on both sides. If I were to store my cutting board flat on the counter when still damp, moisture would trap between the board and the surface, causing it to curve and warp, suddenly making it difficult to work on.
So whether on a countertop, in a cabinet, or on top of your fridge (if you have a small New York apartment kitchen like I do!), prop your cutting board vertically at a slant, so air can flow and the board can dry properly, which will keep it in great condition for preparing many future meals.