Wood Pepper Mill & Salt Shaker Care Guide

Quick answer

Hand-wash with a damp cloth, dry immediately, season the ceramic grinder with rice, and apply mineral oil every few months to keep the acacia wood crack-free and the mechanism working smoothly.

5 steps to keep your set in top shape

1. 1. Clean only with a damp cloth: Wipe the outside of both the mill and shaker with a barely damp cloth. Do not submerge them in water or put them in the dishwasher. Water seeps into the wood joints and the grinding mechanism, causing swelling, warping, or rust on internal parts. If salt or pepper spills on the wood, wipe it off immediately to avoid moisture drawing into the wood. Never soak the wood or put it in the dishwasher.
2. 2. Dry immediately after cleaning: Use a dry, soft towel to buff the wood completely dry right after wiping. Do not let it air-dry. Standing water on the surface will be absorbed into the grain, leading to dark water spots or cracks as the wood dries unevenly. Pay extra attention to the crevices around the stainless steel accents. Air-drying is not enough; towel-dry every time.
3. 3. Season the ceramic grinder monthly: Unscrew the top knob and remove the metal shaft from the mill. Pour out any leftover pepper. Grind about a tablespoon of dry, uncooked white rice through the mill. The rice absorbs oils and knocks loose fine pepper dust. Wipe the grinder chamber with a dry brush afterward. This keeps the ceramic mechanism turning smoothly and prevents the adjustment ring from sticking. If the mill feels stiff or the grind is inconsistent, it is time for a rice cleaning.
4. 4. Oil the wood every 3 to 4 months: Apply a food-safe mineral oil (not vegetable or olive oil, which can go rancid) to a soft cloth and rub it into the acacia wood. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then buff off the excess. This replaces natural oils lost to washing and dry air, preventing the wood from drying out and cracking. Avoid oiling the stainless steel parts or the grinder mechanism. Use only food-safe mineral oil; cooking oils will spoil inside the wood.
5. 5. Store away from heat and moisture: Keep the set on a counter away from the stove, sink, or dishwasher vent. Do not store it inside a cabinet above a dishwasher. Repeated temperature swings and steam cause the wood to expand and contract, eventually creating hairline cracks. A dry, room-temperature spot on a counter or open shelf is ideal. Steam and heat cycles are the main cause of wood cracks.

About this set

• Wood Pepper Mill & Salt Shaker Set: The pepper mill is fitted with a ceramic grinder that adjusts from fine to coarse. You can season it by grinding dry rice to clean out old pepper oils and restore smooth operation.

  

• Wood Pepper Mill & Salt Shaker Set: The set is crafted from sustainably grown acacia wood. Acacia is naturally moisture-resistant but still needs occasional oiling to prevent drying and cracking.