CList's Profile

A better way to seal the counter tops...
Tung Oil!

..That will give you a better seal, more of a warm glow and more of a glossy shine than mineral oil. It is non-toxic as long as you get "Pure Tung Oil", and not "catylized" or some other such thing.

Put the can in a bowl in the sink and run hot water over it for about 10 minutes to warm it up, then use it the same way you'd use that Ikea finish stuff (which is crap, IMO). I.e. pour it on thick, spread it with a rag let it sit for 10 minutes, wipe off the excess. Let it dry for 24 hours and repeat the next day, and the next... do 4 - 6 coats when the counter tops are new. You shouldn't sand between coats, the oil will fill the pours.

It will do a great job of sealing - including around the sinks. I've read the Chinese used to seal boats with the stuff... Like mineral oil, it won't go rancid, but it gives a nicer finisher (IMO - YMMV).

Oh, and BTW, I wouldn't go using my countertops as a chopping block because I'd be too lazy to clean them properly, but if you do... ignore some of the posts here saying it's dangerous. You can disinfect them just fine with water-diluted vinegar. Wipe or spray it on, let it sit for 2 or 3 minutes, wipe it up, then apply a fresh coat of oil.

Cheers,
Chris