Things You Should Know about Butcher Block

John Boos butcher block tableButcher block is a block of wood that is been used for chopping meat or other things. Earlier, it was used in the shops of the butcher for the heavy duty cutting and chopping by nowadays these are been used in the homes as well. These types of blocks are very convenient for the everyday cutting. Those kitchens that are small in size have these blocks as a part of their kitchen counter. Food preparation is considered as a very important part of cooking and to prepare for cooking you need to cut the raw items in to small pieces of appropriate sizes. The butcher block is usually of two types, one is the edge grain type and the other one is the end grain type.

The end grain type of butcher blocks are been made by gluing the pieces or stripes of wood together so that its fiber is perpendicular to the surface. The edge grain type of butcher blocks are made by sticking the wooden pieces in such a manner so that the wooden fiber is parallel to the surface. It is much easier to manufacture the edge grain type of butcher block and it is much cheaper. These are thinner as compared to the end grain type of it so it is usually used for the household purposes. The thickness of it is usually less which then does not allow to be resurfaced. Both these types of blocks are very durable but the end grain type of it more durable as compared to the edge grain type.

These types of blocks are usually made up of hardwood and it comes in various shapes and sizes to meet the needs of an individual. The countertops made of it also have storage space for keeping equipment like scraper, axe knife and others which is useful for cutting meats and other things. It is very important to keep the surface of these blocks clean because the food particles that are present in the block can cause bacteria which then cause food poisoning.

You should oil all side of the panel very carefully. You should consider using a Proterra mineral oil. This oil helps to give protection in the areas which deal with humidity. You should apply it by the help of a soft brush. You should always brush away and scrape away any food residues that are present on its surface to keep the wooden top clean. You should clean the surface with warm soapy water and dry it with the help of a paper towel or a dry cloth. Warping and cupping appear on it if there is a significant difference of moisture between both side of the panel, top side as well as bottom side. If it is possible for you then you should place the top of it on a hard and flat surface. The concave side of it should face downward. You should place a fairly heavy object uniformly on the convex side of it. It will take around 12 hours to straighten the panel completely. If there is any cut marks, stain marks or food stains on the surface then you can easily remove it by sanding it uniformly.

Increase Efficiency with a Microwave Cart in the Kitchen

Unfortunately, most kitchens are not planned or laid out in an efficient manner. People keep looking for various options to make their kitchens more efficient. This saves a lot of time while preparing delicious food and serving guests. At times, it can be very hard to arrange your kitchen properly because of its unsuitable size. A microwave cart in the kitchen can help you improve the overall efficiency of your kitchen. In order to understand how a microwave cart will improve your kitchen’s efficiency, you need to learn some basics. 

When you’re preparing meals for your loved ones, working in an organized kitchen can provide immense pleasure. If you are able to arrange everything in a suitable place, your work will be a lot easier. However, if your kitchen space is not suitable to your needs and requirements, you will have to work in an untidy place. It can even be very difficult to arrange your microwave and other appliances in your kitchen. All these problems can be easily resolved with a microwave cart in the kitchen. A microwave cart not only makes cooking easier for you, but also increases your storage space.

Additional Storage Space

Due to its functionality, a cart can provide a lot of additional storage space in your kitchen. For instance, if you’ve placed your microwave on a countertop, a microwave cart can help you make a lot of extra space on the countertop for your cooking. These days, you can find a lot of different types of microwave carts. The come in many different designs and styles. You can choose one according to your needs and requirements. A MICROWAVE CART in the kitchen can also enhance the visual appeal of the space.

Arrange Your Kitchen Efficiently and Quickly

Additional storage space provided by a microwave cart in the kitchen also allows you to arrange your kitchen efficiently and quickly. A microwave cart can easily adjust all kinds of microwave ovens. However, you can also get them custom-made according to your needs and requirements. While ordering a cart, you should consider the design and size of your kitchen. Even the drawers and shelves in a microwave cart can be adjusted according to your requirements. When everything in your kitchen is organized, you will have more space to work quickly.

Saves Money on Additional Expenses

Most people spend a lot of money buying wall cabinets to hoard unused appliances and utensils. If you’re one of those people, you don’t need to waste your hard-earned money. A microwave cart will be a good option for you. Storage space provided by a microwave cart in the kitchen is worth your investment. Moreover, you will not have to spend your money on expensive wall cabinets.

These days, you can easily buy a microwave cart online. There are many companies which sell high quality microwave carts online. However, before you make a final choice, you should conduct an extensive research and compare prices. With a Microwave Cart in the kitchen, you will be able to cook delicious meals efficiently.

Why kitchen islands are best for your kitchen

A good kitchen must offer great storage, functionality and display. But sadly, not all kitchens offer all of these features. This is where kitchen islands come in handy. Kitchen islands are best for your kitchen as they offer all these features and look beautiful too. From kitchen islands with seating to mobile kitchen islands, the benefits associated with having them in your kitchen are enormous. All you have to do to enjoy these benefits is install one in your kitchen and you are in for a pleasant treat. Here are some of the reasons why kitchen islands are best for your kitchen. 

Adds more storage space

If your kitchen does not have enough storage space, then kitchen islands offer the perfect solution to such problems. Alongside additional drawers, cabinets and pull out shelves, the island basically extends your existing storage. If you don’t have enough space for recycling bins, then you will find the space underneath the kitchen island very useful; the space is easily accessible and does not interfere with other activities in the kitchen.

Great for kids

Whether you want the kids to do their homework close to you as you cook or to just watch as you prepare dinner in order to pick a few tips, the kitchen islands offer a great space for children to enjoy the moment. You can also place appliances that kids often use, such as a refrigerated drawer and microwave, on the kitchen islands. This will enable them to use such appliances independently even when you are not around.

Extra seating is an invaluable asset

Kitchen islands not only act as informal dining spaces for the kids but can also offer additional seating when you have guests. Seeing your family or guests while cooking can be a great advantage, and may even make you enjoy the task. Whether your kitchen space can allow 2 or 6 seats, it’s always better to seat more people.

Adds versatility

There are times when you may need extra counter space but also prefer more floor space. A movable kitchen island will solve this problem. It offers more space when you want to cook a big meal alongside your friends as each person can take his/her section. Once the meal is ready, just roll out the island for added space. Movable kitchen islands are particularly ideal for small kitchens.

A place for additional kitchen amenities

Larger kitchens require the addition of refrigerator drawers, preparation sinks and extra cooking area to make them more useful and functional. You can incorporate such amenities on your kitchen island so that it becomes the center of cooking and entertainment.

These are just a few benefits of installing kitchen islands in the kitchen; the benefits are actually endless. Hence, it is indeed a functional and practical addition that you should make to your kitchen very soon. Whether the island is the show stopper of your kitchen or is designed for utilitarian purposes, you will find a countertop for you. Just visit countertop retailers for inspiration or peruse through kitchen magazines to get some good kitchen island ideas.