Choosing A Safe Coating For Your Wood Hot Pot Trivet

A trivet is used to protect a surface from heat damage and water stains. When choosing a finish for a wooden trivet, it's important to consider heat resistance. Most film finishes will discolour under the heat of a casserole dish straight from the oven. Penetrating finishes, such as mineral oil or boiled linseed oil, are better options but can leave residue on the tablecloth or cookware if not thoroughly dried. Many woodworkers leave trivets bare or incorporate heat-resistant materials such as glass, metal, or tile. Some finishes suggested by woodworkers include tung oil, Danish oil, and polyurethane.

Mineral oil is safe for wooden trivets

Wooden trivets are a great way to protect your table or counter from hot pots and pans. However, the finish you choose for your trivet is important, as it needs to be able to withstand high temperatures without burning, melting, or spoiling. Some finishes, like Danish oil, poly, and tung oil, may not be the best option for trivets that will be used for very hot items straight from the stove or oven.

Mineral oil is a safe option for wooden trivets. It is relatively stable and won't spoil when exposed to warm temperatures, so you don't have to worry about it melting or burning. Mineral oil also leaves a clear finish, which is practical if you want a natural look for your trivet. It is considered non-toxic and won't give off any foul odours.

To apply mineral oil to your wooden trivet, start by sanding the wood to create a smooth surface. Then, use a cloth or brush to apply the mineral oil. Let the oil soak in until the wood is dry, and apply a second coat if needed. Repeat this process until the wood is evenly saturated with oil.

It's important to note that not all mineral oil is food-safe, so be sure to choose a food-grade option if your trivet will be in direct contact with food. Additionally, mineral oil will need to be reapplied regularly, as it is not a long-lasting finish like some other wood protection products. You may also want to consider applying a coat of beeswax over the mineral oil to add an extra layer of protection and prevent potential ingestion of small amounts of petroleum.

Boiled linseed oil is heat-resistant

Boiled linseed oil is a popular product used to treat wooden surfaces. It is commonly found in woodworkers' workshops and is used to treat interior wooden surfaces, leaving a smooth, glossy finish. It can also be applied to outdoor surfaces, but it may not offer the same level of protection as modern exterior wood treatments.

Boiled linseed oil is known for its deep penetration into wooden fibres, strengthening the wood throughout. It is often used on guitars, bannisters, cabinets, rifles, old tool handles, interior seating in boats and caravans, interior and exterior doors, wooden models and crafts, and shelving. It is particularly effective on dry, bare wood, which soaks up the oil like a sponge.

When it comes to heat resistance, boiled linseed oil offers some benefits. It is a penetrating finish, meaning it soaks into the wood rather than sitting on the surface. This helps protect the wood from within, and it can be particularly effective for smaller depth pieces of wood. Boiled linseed oil is also flexible and can accommodate the natural expansion and contraction of wooden surfaces due to changes in humidity and seasonal weather conditions. This makes it a good choice for wooden items that may be exposed to varying temperatures, such as hot pots or pans.

However, it is important to note that boiled linseed oil is not heat-resistant in the same way that modern heat-resistant coatings are. It can take between 24 to 72 hours for boiled linseed oil to fully cure and dry. During this curing process, the oil does create heat through its chemical reaction with oxygen. This means that there may be recommendations for drying the oil by exposing it to additional heat sources, such as sunlight, ovens, or radiators.

Additionally, boiled linseed oil is flammable and requires careful storage to prevent spontaneous combustion. Used rags soaked with boiled linseed oil can pose a significant fire risk and should be laid flat on a non-flammable surface or stored in a metal container until completely dry.

While boiled linseed oil may offer some heat resistance due to its penetrating properties and flexibility, it is not specifically designed or marketed as a heat-resistant coating for wooden trivets or other items that come into direct contact with high temperatures. For items that will be exposed to significant heat, such as hot pots or pans, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and choose a suitable heat-resistant finish to ensure the safety and longevity of your wooden items.

Avoid using Polyurethane on wooden trivets

Polyurethane is not the best option for coating wooden trivets. While it is fairly resistant to heat, it will eventually get damaged from hot pans and discolour under the heat of a casserole dish straight from the oven. Polyurethane is also not food-safe, and could leave residue on the tablecloth or the cookware.

A better option for coating wooden trivets is a penetrating finish, such as mineral oil or boiled linseed oil. However, these too could leave residue on the tablecloth or cookware, especially if they're not thoroughly dried. For this reason, many woodworkers leave their trivets bare or untreated.

If you do want to coat your wooden trivet, a light coat of tung oil may be a better option. Tung oil is food-safe and will efficiently protect whatever surface the trivet is on. However, be aware that some products marketed as tung oil are actually blends of varnish or urethane and tung oils.

Tung oil is a drying oil

Durability and Protection

Tung oil is highly durable and an excellent choice for protecting wood surfaces from moisture damage, swelling, and warping. It is water-resistant and ideal for both indoor and outdoor projects. The oil penetrates deep into the wood fibres, creating a rich, warm glow that accentuates the wood's natural grain patterns and colour.

Flexibility

Unlike hard finishes that can crack or peel over time, tung oil remains flexible. This flexibility allows it to move with the wood as it expands and contracts due to temperature and humidity changes, making it a good choice for high-use surfaces.

Food Safety

Pure tung oil, once fully cured, is food-safe. This makes it ideal for kitchen utensils, cutting boards, and other surfaces that come into contact with food. It is an excellent alternative to other finishes that may chip more easily or are not suitable for food contact.

Environmental Friendliness

As a natural product, tung oil is environmentally friendly compared to many synthetic finishes. It contains no harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and is a popular choice for those seeking a more natural and eco-friendly finish.

Compatibility and Ease of Maintenance

Tung oil is compatible with various wood types and can be used in different woodworking projects. It is also relatively easy to maintain and repair. Scratches or worn areas can often be refreshed by simply applying additional coats of oil without the need for stripping or sanding.

Application Process

The application process for tung oil involves multiple thin coats, with proper surface preparation and drying time between coats. It may take several days to cure between coats and several weeks for the finish to fully harden. The oil can be applied using a natural bristle brush, a sponge brush, or a soft, lint-free rag. It is important to work in a well-ventilated area and properly dispose of oil-soaked rags.

Colour and Finish

Tung oil dries to a honey colour, enhancing the depth and character of the wood. It produces a matte or light satin finish with a slight golden tint, giving the wood a rich and natural appearance.

Danish oil can be used on wooden trivets

Danish oil can be used to treat wooden trivets, but it is not the only option. Other oils that can be used include mineral oil, tung oil, and boiled linseed oil. However, tung oil is not edible in its liquid form, so it is recommended to let it dry for almost a month to ensure it is harmless. Poly finishes are also not recommended for trivets as the heat will melt the finish.

Danish oil is a blend of several natural oils: linseed oil, tung oil, and safflower oil. It is a traditional wood care product in Denmark and other Nordic countries, where it has been used for centuries to protect wood from the cold and damp northern climate. Today, it is used worldwide by many wood craftsmen.

Danish oil is easy to apply and can be purchased from many brands. To treat a wooden trivet, start by cleaning the trivet with lukewarm water and mild soap to remove food residues and bacteria. Rinse and dry the trivet thoroughly, then allow it to dry for several hours to ensure it is not damp before applying the Danish oil. Shake the bottle of Danish oil well to mix the different oils, then pour a small amount directly onto the trivet or onto a soft, clean cloth. Spread the oil in a thin layer over the entire surface of the trivet, including the edges and handle holes. Remove any excess oil with a cloth. The drying time will depend on the specific oil purchased, but it can vary from a few hours to a full night. It is advisable to let the trivet dry for 24 hours before use to avoid any trace of toxicity. Once the trivet is dry, use a soft, clean cloth to polish it to a smooth, shiny finish. If the wood still appears dry, add another coat of oil, let it dry, and buff it again.

Danish oil has a strong odor, which some may find unpleasant. It will also darken the wood slightly and can be combined with oil-based pigments to create wood stains. It is important to note that Danish oil is not suitable for every type of wood. For example, it can cause some woods to become sticky over time. Additionally, Danish oil should not be applied with a brush and should only be used on interior woodwork.

Frequently asked questions