laboos

FAQ & Wood Care

Most of our inbox is about wood care. Here is the whole answer, plus everything else we get asked.

Caring for Wooden Tools

Can laboos boards and tongs go in the dishwasher?

No — and this is the one rule that matters. A dishwasher soaks wood for an hour and then bakes it dry, which is exactly how boards warp and tongs lose their spring. Rinse by hand in warm water, wipe, and stand upright to dry. It takes less time than loading the machine.

How often should I oil the wood?

When the surface starts to look pale and dry — roughly once a month with daily use. Any food-grade mineral oil works: wipe it on, let it sit twenty minutes, buff off the excess. Skip olive and other cooking oils, which can turn rancid in the grain.

My tongs feel stiff or loose. Is that a fault?

Bamboo’s spring comes from the cane itself, so tension varies slightly piece to piece and eases a little in the first week of use. A joint that has cracked or come unglued is a fault; a spring with its own character is wood being wood.

Is bamboo safe for hot food?

Yes. Our tools are finished with food-grade mineral oil only — no paint or lacquer to blister or flake. Wood also conducts heat poorly, which is why a bamboo tong can fish toast from a toaster slot that would make a metal one dangerous.

Products and Sizing

Which tongs should I pick?

By reach: 8” magnetic tongs live on the toaster, the 11” folding pair covers salads and everyday cooking, and the 11.8” long tongs keep knuckles away from grills. The walnut antler pair is the one you leave out on purpose.

Are the mini cutting boards big enough?

At 7” square they are made for fruit, cheese, a clove of garlic, baby portions — the ninety percent of cuts that never needed a full-size board. For roasts and bread, keep a big board; for everything else, reach for the small one.

Ordering

Where do orders actually ship from?

From the U.S. fulfillment centers of our retail partner — details on the Shipping & Delivery page.

What if I want to return something?

The Returns page walks through the window, the condition and the steps.