Food & Drink

The 8 Best Plastic Cutting Boards, According to Our Tests

Durable and easy to care for, plastic cutting boards are one of the most useful tools in our kitchen arsenal. They’re gentler on knives and longer-lasting than glass cutting boards, while requiring less upkeep than wood options (not to mention, often less of an investment).

To help you pick the right one, we tested eight plastic cutting boards and sets available on the market. We were looking for boards that stayed put during use, were well-sized and lightweight, were easy to clean and store, and didn’t stain or break down over use. Here are the best of the best, from a board pretty enough to leave out on your counter to a flexible set perfect for slicing fruit. 

Our Favorite Plastic Cutting Board

Our top pick is the Material grippy reBoard for its charming design, ease of cleaning, and solid construction. 

Material The (grippy) reBoard
Credit: Material

Made from a combination of recycled, BPA-free plastic and renewable sugarcane, this board from Material won our testing. We loved that the board comes with silicone grips over all four corners that keep it from slipping on the countertop — they were pretty effective, and we liked that the grips worked no matter which side of the board we were using.

Although the board is about half as thick as some of the other models we tried, we found it was plenty cushioned for comfortable knife work, and we liked the slightly tacky finish on the board for additional grip. Knives tend to blunt on overly hard plastic boards as they repeatedly glance off of rigid surfaces with no give — not so here. And at the end of a few weeks of testing, we weren’t left with any major cuts or gouges in the cutting surface.

The reBoard strikes a nice balance in terms of size. It’s reasonably light (enough so that we feel comfortable hanging it with its built-in hole for storage or drying), but still roomy enough to fit a whole chicken or a larger piece of protein. We could fit the board easily into the dishwasher as well.

We’re hopeful that with continued use, the silicone grips remain firmly in place. On the whole, the reBoard is a solid, versatile choice for a batterie de cuisine.

Material: 75% recycled plastic, 25% renewable sugarcane, silicone | BPA-Free: Yes | Dishwasher-safe: Yes | Stain-proof: Yes | Dimensions: 14.75 x 10.75 x 0.375 inches

KitchenAid Classic Plastic Cutting Board
Credit: Amazon

Cons

  • Currently, we have no negatives to report, but it may not be one you want to keep on display while entertaining.

This classic board from KitchenAid features a helpful juice groove for catching runoff and a non-slip border that keeps it in place while in use. We liked that this board is plenty thick, sturdy enough to withstand warping through multiple rounds in the dishwasher, despite its affordable price tag. 

The board had plenty of room for working with larger items — we used it to prepare a pork loin and didn’t feel crowded. Both sides of the reversible board were equally stable when in use, thanks to the non-slip edge spanning both sides. (We didn’t notice any breakdown in the edges; they looked good as new even after weeks of use and washing.)

This cutting board also comes in various sizes and colors. We tested to see if turmeric would tint the white version of the board, and while it almost entirely came out with a scrub by hand and a spin through the dishwasher, other colorways — like the inky blue or deep beetroot shade — would camouflage stains even better.

Material: Plastic | BPA-Free: Yes | Dishwasher-safe: Yes | Stain-proof: Yes | Dimensions: 11 x 14 x 0.59 inches (multiple available)

Fredericks and Mae Large Plastic Cutting Board
Credit: Food52

Made from thick, food-safe plastic, this board from Fredericks and Mae isn’t just stylish, it’s also thoughtfully designed. The board comes with a powder-coated metal handle, useful for moving, carrying, and tipping the board to slide ingredients off. It’s spacious enough to break down a chicken or trim and tie a loin or roast. We cleaned the board both in the dishwasher and with a soft, soapy sponge — both felt equally effective for producing a clean, stain-free surface — and noted that it didn’t warp or bend during use or cleaning.

While the board didn’t stain when cutting red fruit or pigmented ingredients, we did notice some shallow cuts and scratches starting to collect on the board by the end of our testing period, which is par for the course for plastic cutting boards. The board’s speckled design camouflaged most of these. The board does slide around without added friction between the board and countertop (easily solved by deploying the damp towel trick).

Material: High-density Polyethylene | BPA-Free: Unspecified | Dishwasher-safe: Yes | Stain-proof: Yes | Dimensions: 16 x 11 x 0.75 inches

Misen Flexible Cutting Mats
Credit: Misen

These boards from Misen are whisper-thin, nearly flush with the counter when in use, which makes for bendy, easy-to-use “cutting sheets” that get our nod for most flexible. The four boards arrive in a set: The smaller boards are great for slicing a lime or halving a sandwich, while the two larger ones are perfectly suited for a full mise en place. The boards are finished with a grippy, non-slip backing across the entire underside that kept them firmly in place during testing.

Even though the boards are dishwasher-safe, they did warp slightly after going through the machine — not entirely a surprise, given their thin construction. (The manufacturer recommends washing the boards on the top rack to mitigate any damage, but we found that the larger size was too big.) That being said, the non-slip grip held up nicely. We also missed a juice groove here for longer prep sessions: When prepping protein, juices tended to run right onto the counter, because of how thin the boards are.

These are a great pick if you are looking for a truly lightweight cutting board. Although the Misen models ended up a bit scratched up with use, they withstood ingredients that typically stain, like beets and marinades. Our favorite feature was the genuinely flexible construction: Rather than pulling out a bench scraper or using a knife spine to push ingredients into a bowl or skillet, we could pick up and flex the entire board into a U shape to form a funnel.

Material: Polypropylene Plastic | BPA-Free: Unspecified | Dishwasher-safe: Yes | Stain-proof: Yes | Dimensions: Small: 9 x 12 inches (Small); 12 x 18 inches (Large)

Amazon OXO Cutting and Carving Board
Credit: Amazon

From trusted brand OXO, this reversible board has our favorite juice groove — a moat around the edge, designed to catch and prevent juice from running — built into one of its sides. We like that this construction gives us options: If you want a bigger workspace, simply use the side without the groove; for more protection from runoff, opt for the other side. The stiff, sturdy board is also finished with a noticeably smooth texture, which was a pleasure to prep on (other plastic cutting boards can skew towards a pebbled surface). We had plenty of space to chop fruits and veggies, as well as slice roasts or truss a bird, and the groove helped us neatly pour off juice as it collected.

The OXO also features grippy, tapered edges that softly hold the counter and double as handles. Thanks to these handles, we felt confident that the board would not slide around in use, even when cutting with force. 

The board did show some knife cuts after extended use, but we were impressed at how fresh the rubber ends looked and felt. (We’ll keep testing the boards to see if and when they break down, but OXO’s molded soft-grip rubber products tend to have a long lifespan.) It is on the larger side, so be advised that this may be a hand-wash only board if you have a small dishwasher. 

Material: Polypropylene | BPA-Free: Unspecified | Dishwasher-safe: Yes | Stain-proof: Yes, but soak or wash promptly after use | Dimensions: 21.1 x 14.5 inches

Material the rePrep Set Set of 3
Credit: Material

Made from BPA-free plastic, these three cutting boards from Material deliver versatile performance in a tight selection of options. Each board is equally thick, clocking in at about 0.375 inches, but is sized for different tasks. The two larger boards are plenty spacious for prep sessions or breaking down a whole chicken or a roast, while the smaller is suited for slicing fruit or sandwiches and the like. While all three boards feature holes through which to hang them for drying or storage, only one of the large boards comes with silicone grips over the corner for added grip.

One surprising downside of the boards was the water-wicking material. We limited prepping meat or juicy ingredients on them, as runoff tended to bead and collect under the boards, leading to increased cleanup. (A juice groove would have solved this problem.)

The set does get points for its colors — we liked that the hues prevented and hid staining — and for being easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher. They’re excellent for someone who wants to cycle through cutting boards without having to wash them for reuse right away or for anyone looking to avoid cross-contamination while prepping a meal with multiple components.

Material: 75% recycled plastic, 25% renewable sugarcane, silicone | BPA-Free: Yes | Dishwasher-safe: Yes | Stain-proof: Yes | Dimensions: 14.75 x 10.75 x 0.375 inches (Large); 13.3 x 8.5 x 0.375 inches (Mini)

Our Place Daily Board
Credit: Amazon

The Daily Board’s subdued, elegant colorways will suit any kitchen — we’re happy to leave this one out on the counter. The board is made from recycled, BPA-free plastic with a grainy texture that helps grip ingredients. We’re fans of the board’s inset rubberized handles, which are key to non-slip performance and easy maneuvering. 

The medium-sized board is just roomy enough — we were able to comfortably dice piles of celery, onions, and carrots, transferring each veggie to a bowl to make room for the next. The board can also handle a couple of chicken breasts at once, but it isn’t quite big enough for a full bird. The rubberized handles did control the worst of the board sliding around, but we still found a damp towel underneath helpful to keep the board firmly in place for slippery or rounded ingredients.

The board held up well during our weeks of testing, without the main board or grippy sides showing signs of wear and tear. While the board can go into the dishwasher, the brand recommends a soak in diluted white vinegar for an extra deep clean, an easy tip we appreciated.

Material: Recycled Plastic | BPA-Free: Yes | Dishwasher-safe: Yes | Stain-proof: Yes | Dimensions: 15.5 x 10.5 x 3.8 inches

Amazon Gorilla Grip Durable Cutting Board Set
Credit: Amazon

Pros

  • This super grippy board stayed firmly in place for any task, which made for a secure, pleasant chopping experience.

Of all of the cutting boards we tested, this set from Gorilla Grip was unparalleled in terms of non-slip performance. Both ends of the board have a rubber coating that prevents it from sliding (one edge has an easy-carry handle built into the rubber). The large board is roomy enough for breaking down bigger proteins, while the smaller boards are excellent for any day-to-day task, like a tomato or avocado. All three reversible boards feature a helpful juice groove on one side for catching runoff.

The handles and rubber coating didn’t suffer any damage in the dishwasher. The boards also stand up nicely to slicing, dicing, and light prep work, but we noticed that more pressure — from, say, slicing bread with a serrated knife — left deeper gouges in the boards. During testing, when bell pepper juices started to stain the board, a 10-minute soak before washing prevented any lasting discoloration. (If you’re really worried about staining, opt for one of the gray boards; this set is available in multiple eye-catching styles.)

We loved that these didn’t budge after placing them and were thick and sturdy enough not to warp with extended use and washing.

Material: Plastic | BPA-Free: Yes | Dishwasher-safe: Yes | Stain-proof: Yes | Dimensions: 16 x 11.2 x 0.37 inches (Large); 13.8 x 9.6 x 0.37 inches (Medium); 11.8 x 8 x 0.37 inches (Small) 

How We Tested Plastic Cutting Boards

We tested eight different cutting boards or sets to find the best ones. During the testing period, we incorporated the cutting boards into our cooking routines as much as possible, focusing on the following criteria:

  • Design: Based on extended use and specific tests, we assessed the durability and design of the boards — for example, we chopped root vegetables (such as hard and rolling-prone carrots and potatoes) to evaluate the slickness or grip of the cutting surface. In addition to testing how the boards held up to routine knife use, we also sliced juicy and red fruits — from lemons and limes to raspberries and tomatoes — to see whether the boards would stain or absorb moisture.
  • Size and capacity: To assess spaciousness, we used the boards to break down poultry. We worked in other tests — for example, slicing with a serrated knife to see if marks would result — throughout our weeks of use.
  • Cleaning: If the boards were dishwasher-safe, we ran them through at least one cycle to report on wear and tear and ease of cleaning. If the manufacturer provided specific cleaning instructions, we incorporated these tips into our care as well.

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Factors to Consider

Design

Cutting boards come in a variety of styles and can be finished with a range of helpful features, which should be taken into account when choosing yours. Thicker boards tend to last longer, but they may be heavy to maneuver and harder to fit in a cupboard or dishwasher. Meanwhile, thinner boards can flex to transfer ingredients or divert spills, but may warp during washing. 

Size is a related factor — are you cooking for one, in which case a smaller board might suffice, or regularly making big family dinners? Would you rather use a selection of boards in different sizes for tasks throughout the day, or have one large board you use for everything? We also recommend considering the texture of surfaces and non-slip edges or grips, as these can help grasp the counter and ingredients, or whether you’d like handles to help with moving boards around.

Durability

Plastic tends to outlast other cutting board materials that are prone to bending, splintering, or cracking — such as wood or glass — but it isn’t infallible. Cutting board marks that start shallow can deepen into gouges with extended use. And exposure to high temperatures, including those of the dishwasher cycle, can damage plastic cutting boards over time. As with any plastic tool, it’s worth keeping an eye out for warping, bending, fraying, and shedding with use. Also, other components, like handles or rubber feet, may experience wear and tear as well.

Ease of Cleaning

How much upkeep does each board require? And how easy is it? Boards vary between being dishwasher-friendly and hand-wash only; some manufacturers provide additional instructions for deep cleaning as well. Plastic can also pick up colors or odors with time, depending on how it’s cared for — keep this in mind as you’re choosing a style or color of board.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • All of these cutting boards are made of plastic. What’s the difference?

    Not all plastic is made equal. You might see polypropylene, polyethylene, or recycled materials, plus terms describing plastic density, on a cutting board label. While reputable manufacturers will reliably choose food-safe plastics, the various types of plastic used affect a tool’s longevity, as well as the experience of using the board. For example, a lower-density plastic may offer more give in the cutting surface, which might feel more comfortable to cut on.

  • Are plastic cutting boards safe for meat? Can you use the same board for protein and produce?

    There’s no reason not to use a plastic cutting board for meat! Plastic is a nonporous material and can go into the dishwasher for high-heat sanitizing, both of which help reduce the risk of trapped bacteria. Be sure to use safe prepping practices, regardless — either containing raw meat and seafood to their own cutting board or thoroughly cleaning a single board between tasks while cooking.

  • What are microplastics?

    You’ve probably heard the term “microplastics” as a catchall term in the media lately, as the scientific community is learning more about our exposure to microplastics, nanoplastics, and their constituent chemicals. “We know people carry a load of microplastics in the body — in our blood, brain tissue, and more — and this can increase risk of adverse health effects. We’re already exposed through our food, air, and drinking water. One way to mitigate further risk is to limit storing or preparing food with plastic,” says Dr. Tracey Woodruff, an expert on environmental contaminants and Director of University of California San Francisco’s Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment. A plastic cutting board could contribute to our overall exposure because we’re pushing food into a plastic surface, as well as cutting into the plastic itself, possibly sloughing off particles into our food.

  • What does BPA-free really mean?

    “BPA-free is a marketing gimmick,” says Dr. Woodruff. Bisphenol-A is one of multiple types of bisphenols and other risky chemicals that are either part of plastics themselves or added for various characteristics (for example, phthalates to make soft plastic flexible). “BPA-free” has become a virtue signal since awareness increased in the early 2000s, but ultimately, manufacturers are not required to disclose exactly what their materials are made up of. That may not necessarily mean that their materials are unsafe, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re conscious of adverse health effects.

  • How can you make your boards last longer?

    Plastic degrades for a variety of reasons, but one of the easiest triggers to avoid is heat. If you’re looking for longer-lasting, safer performance from your cutting board, try to wash it by hand as much as possible.

  • What else should you know about plastic in the kitchen?

    “It takes time to work through your plastic-related materials and replace them to the extent that you can. And, yes, you can do things to lower your exposure to plastic, but you can’t do everything. Plastic production is expected to triple by 2060,” says Dr. Woodruff. “Focus on consuming fresh fruits and veggies and less-processed foods. Store food in newer or glass containers and don’t microwave in plastic. Make even one change, and that will be helpful.”

Other Plastic Cutting Boards We Tested

Strong Contenders

Hayate Yoshihiro Cutting Board ($140 at Amazon)

Smooth, durable, and non-slip, this professional-grade cutting board from Japan is a genuine workhorse. It’s made from soft LDPE plastic, a flexible, low-density material that’s gentle on knives. It’s fabulous for cushioning the force of knife cuts, therefore much gentler on your wrist, and it resists picking up stains or odors, despite its soft surface. Given its price and main use — to absorb the very sharp knife cuts needed for preparing sashimi — it might be a little more cutting board than most home cooks need on a day-to-day basis.

What Didn’t Make the List

We also tested the Cup Board Pro Synthetic Cutting Board. This reversible board comes with a tray to catch scraps and errant juices. While it’s lightweight and handy for prepping meat and produce with a tendency to drip, we found that it took up too much room on the counter. Also, many buyers found that the board slid around on the counter and warped after washing, making it wobbly and less safe to use overall.

Our Expertise

  • Food & Wine Commerce Writer Priyanka Shahane wrote this story based on her personal experience with plastic cutting boards, as well as the results of our in-house testing. Priyanka has a Master’s degree in Public Health Nutrition, during which she studied the effects of plastic-related chemicals on human health. She has over a decade of experience writing — her work has appeared at Food52 and Milk Street — and more than 20 years of cooking and baking experience.
  • Dr. Tracey Woodruff is an expert on environmental contaminants, toxic chemicals, and pollutants and their effects on human health. A professor at University of California San Francisco, she directs their Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment.

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