Is a glass cutting board bad for knives?-Unfortunately, it is.
This cutting board is one of the least desirable surfaces for knives.
Glass cutting boards are aesthetically pleasing, but they’re hard, almost as hard as steel, and don’t score. As a result, they can easily dull, chip, or break even the most durable blades like high-carbon ones!
Glass cutting boards may not be the best option out there for keeping your blades safe, but they have plenty of other advantages to offer. They make excellent charcuterie boards and are easy to clean.
Moreover, glass isn’t porous and isn’t bacteria’s preferred breeding ground. Below, learn more about the pros and cons of glass cutting boards and whether they’re a good investment for you or not!
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Is a Glass Cutting Bad for Knives?
Glass cutting boards are one of the least desirable options when it comes to keeping blades safe. Although it’s recommendable to have a tough cutting board, the glass may be too hard on knives.
The constant chopping and cutting results in the blade hitting the board all the time.
This may cause the blade to chip, crack, or dull. Even if you’re using high-carbon stainless steel blades that keep their edge longer, they’ll eventually decline in performance.
What’s more, glass cutting boards can cause chips on the blades.
At first, they may be tiny and not visible; however, with continuous use, they tend to become bigger and more visible. Glass cutting boards are also quite noisy.
This sound is annoying for many. It’s caused by the contact of the metal and the glass.
These boards aren’t the safest out there as they tend to be slippery. While cutting, the food may slip and the blade may cause injuries. With this in mind, being extra cautious with glass boards is essential.
What Are the Benefits of Glass Cutting Boards?
Despite the evident disadvantages of glass cutting boards, they’re not to be dismissed entirely. In fact, they’re quite common in many households and a favorite of many!
Below, learn why every household should have one:
- Easily cleaned
Since glass isn’t porous and tough, it’s simple and easy to clean. After every use, warm water, dish soap, and a sponge are enough.
Glass cutting boards, unlike wood or some other materials, don’t need extra maintenance.
This makes them ideal for busy individuals or people who are unsure how to take extensive care of cutting boards.
- Doesn’t harbor bacteria
Unlike wood which has natural pores or plastic which can develop cracks from extensive knife use, glass isn’t porous.
It’s very tough and has no indentations.
No bacteria and other microorganisms can stick around it long enough to cause problems. It’s an excellent option for those who want to prevent cross contamination and reduce the risk of food-borne illnesses.
- Pleasant aesthetics
Glass cutting boards have character.
Whether they’re just on your countertop for decoration or used as charcuterie boards, they definitely add to the aesthetics.
Serving food on glass cutting boards adds to the atmosphere. It’s one of the most attractive ways to serve food to your family and friends.
If you’re considering buying a glass cutting board, take into account the most important factors. Some of them are non-slippery bottom, resistant to scratches, budged-friendly, dishwasher-safe, and longevity.
Tempered glass is awesome if you’re looking for that extra durability.
This glass is more robust than regular glass and has a safety edge. If you prefer patterns or want to beautify your countertop, a floral or pattern-style glass board is an amazing choice!
Why Do Glass Cutting Boards Have Textures?
Glass cutting boards differ from most other cutting boards by having two different sides.
One has textures and the other is smooth. The former is usually put on the bottom and its purpose is to keep the board in place and prevent sliding.
The other is the side intended for chopping, cutting, and slicing. But there are people who use the textured side for food prep too.
The textured side is the preferred one for grounding garlic, mashing herbs, or keeping slippery veggies in place.
When prepping meat, the smooth side is the best option.
Which Are the Best Cutting Boards for Knives?
If you want to preserve your knives, avoid using them on cutting boards made from glass, marble, granite, and ceramic.
These surfaces are harder than steel and can weaken the edge of the blade. Even the occasional slice on a cutting board of this type could make your knives lose their sharpness.
Wood and plastic boards are the best option to preserve your knives’ edge and sharpness. Wood is a top option because it feels good and it’s long-lasting.
However, it tends to be on the more expensive side and it needs additional maintenance like regular oiling. On the other hand, plastic is inexpensive, easy to maintain, and easier on your blades than glass.
Although it’s pivotal to choose the right cutting board to keep your knives safe, this won’t make up for any poor knife skills. You need to learn how to use knives on boards properly, without damaging their edge.
Never drag the knife along the board and avoid chopping overly energetic. Cutting and slicing require the right amount of force, not too little and not too much.
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering if a glass cutting board is bad for knives, we’re afraid that the answer is yes. Being very hard, the glass can damage the steel of the blade.
As a result, the blade can lose its sharpness and edge. This is why it’s not recommendable to use a glass cutting board with expensive knives or your favorite ones.
If you want to keep your blades in good shape, use them with wooden or plastic cutting boards. Avoid boards from glass, marble, or ceramic.
Although they’re not the best option out there for knives, glass cutting boards have plenty of benefits to offer.
By investing in a glass cutting board, you get a board that’s easy to clean, a non-porous surface that doesn’t harbor bacteria and makes a lovely charcuterie board.
