How to Season and Maintain Your Acacia Wood Pizza Peel

Quick Answer

Season your acacia wood pizza peel with food-grade mineral oil before first use and reapply every few months to keep the wood hydrated and non-stick. Clean it by hand with mild soap and dry it immediately to prevent warping.

Step-by-Step Seasoning and Maintenance Guide

1. 1. Clean the peel before first use: Wipe the peel with a damp cloth and mild dish soap to remove any dust or factory residue. Rinse quickly and dry thoroughly with a clean towel. Common mistake: letting the peel air-dry standing up can cause water to pool on the surface and raise the grain. Always hand-dry immediately after any cleaning.
2. 2. Apply food-grade mineral oil: Pour a small amount of food-grade mineral oil onto a soft cloth. Rub it into the entire surface of the peel, including the handle and edges, following the wood grain. Let the oil soak in for at least 30 minutes. Common mistake: using cooking oils like olive or vegetable oil, which can turn rancid and create a sticky residue. Stick to food-grade mineral oil or beeswax-based wood conditioners.
3. 3. Wipe off excess oil and cure: After 30 minutes, buff away any excess oil with a clean, dry cloth. Let the peel rest flat for 24 hours before using it. This allows the oil to fully penetrate the wood fibers. Common mistake: using the peel too soon, which can leave oily spots on your pizza dough. Plan ahead: season the peel a day before your next pizza night.
4. 4. Clean after each use: Scrape off any stuck dough or flour with a plastic scraper or your fingers. Wipe the peel with a damp cloth and mild soap if needed, then dry immediately. Never submerge the peel or put it in the dishwasher. Common mistake: scrubbing with abrasive pads, which can scratch the wood and remove the seasoned layer. A quick wipe and dry is usually enough between uses.
5. 5. Re-oil every 2–3 months or when wood looks dry: If the surface feels rough, looks pale, or dough starts sticking again, it is time to re-season. Repeat steps 2 and 3. In humid climates, you may need to oil more often. Common mistake: over-oiling, which can leave a tacky film that attracts dust and flour. A light coat is better than a heavy one; you can always add more.
6. 6. Store the peel properly: Keep the peel in a dry, room-temperature area away from direct heat sources like your oven or stovetop. Store it flat or hanging by the handle hole to prevent warping. Common mistake: leaning the peel against a wall, which can cause it to bend over time. Flat storage or hanging keeps the wood straight and extends its life.

Product Facts

• Acacia Wood Pizza Peel & Server: Crafted from beautiful and durable FSC Acacia hardwood, the surface is naturally non-stick so you have time to build your pizza on the peel – or slide the peel under with the chamfered edge – before effortlessly launching. Regular seasoning preserves that natural non-stick property and protects the chamfered edge, so dough slides off easily every time.