The Type Of Countertop Julia Child Had (And The Controversial Way She Cleaned Them) - Tasting Table

"Butcher block countertops are a kitchen design trend that is on its way back, and for good reason. One of the biggest benefits of butcher block countertops is that they can withstand heavy use, from pounding chicken breasts to cutting up food with the sharpest knives in your drawers. Despite the benefits, something people often overlook when investing in butcher block countertops is that they require a lot of care and maintenance. Wood counters need regular cleaning, disinfecting, and even seasoning."

"According to the book "In Julia's Kitchen: Practical and Convivial Kitchen Design Inspired by Julia Child" by Pamela Heyne and Jim Scherer, Julia Child cleaned her countertops with an abrasive cleaner and then seasoned them with olive oil. She also sometimes used lemon to remove odors from the wood, which is a trick that can also be used to clean wooden cutting boards."

Julia Child used 38-inch-high butcher block countertops that combined durability and classic kitchen style. Butcher block counters are returning to popularity because they withstand heavy use such as pounding meat and knife work. Wood surfaces require routine cleaning, disinfecting, and periodic seasoning to maintain longevity. Julia Child reportedly cleaned her counters with an abrasive cleaner, then seasoned them with olive oil and sometimes used lemon to remove odors. Abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia can damage wood finishes and shorten countertop life. The safest maintenance practice is wiping spills promptly with a clean, damp cloth.

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