Ever wonder if your cutting board is actually helping or harming your food prep? It might seem like a small detail, but the right cutting board can make a big difference in your kitchen. When it comes to plastic cutting boards, the choices can feel overwhelming. You want one that’s safe, easy to clean, and won’t dull your knives, but where do you even start?
That’s where America’s Test Kitchen comes in. They’ve done the tough work, testing out tons of plastic cutting boards to find the best ones. They know the frustrations of flimsy boards that slide around, boards that scratch easily, and those that just don’t feel right under your knife. If you’re tired of guessing which plastic cutting board is worth your money, you’re in the right place.
Keep reading, and we’ll dive into the top picks from America’s Test Kitchen. You’ll learn what makes a plastic cutting board great, what to avoid, and exactly which ones they recommend. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to pick a cutting board that will make your cooking safer and more enjoyable.
Our Top 5 Plastic Cutting Board America’S Test Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Dexas Heavy Duty Grippmat Flexible Cutting Board Set of Four | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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Goodluck 5 Pieces Flexible Cutting Boards | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
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Plastic Cutting Board | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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Farberware Large Cutting Board | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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Farberware Extra-Large Plastic Cutting Board | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Plastic Cutting Board America’S Test Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. Dexas Heavy Duty Grippmat Flexible Cutting Board Set of Four
Rating: 9.2/10
Meet the Dexas Heavy Duty Grippmat Flexible Cutting Board Set of Four, a kitchen essential that makes food prep safer and more organized. This set comes with four brightly colored boards, each measuring 11.5 by 14 inches. The vibrant colors are a smart way to keep different foods separate, preventing germs from spreading between raw meat and veggies.
What We Like:
- SET OF FOUR: You get four cutting boards in fun colors: blue, green, yellow, and red. This helps you avoid mixing up raw chicken with your salad ingredients.
- INNOVATIVE DESIGN: These boards are super light and bend easily. They don’t soak up liquids, so they stay clean and don’t get smelly.
- NON-SLIP: The bottom of each board has a special grip that keeps it from sliding around on your counter. This is a big safety win while you’re chopping!
- BPA FREE: You can fold and roll these boards to easily slide your chopped food into pots or bowls. They are also BPA-free, which is great for your health, and they can go right into the dishwasher when you’re done.
- CRITIC APPROVED: Even famous cooking shows and magazines like America’s Test Kitchen and Cooks Illustrated love these Grippmats. They are a favorite among home cooks for a good reason!
What Could Be Improved:
- NOT REVERSIBLE: The special non-slip backing means you can only use one side of the cutting board. This limits your cutting surface slightly.
This set offers a practical and safe way to handle all your cutting tasks. The Dexas Grippmat set is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, making meal prep a breeze.
2. Goodluck 5 Pieces Flexible Cutting Boards
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of flimsy cutting boards that slide around and mix flavors? The Goodluck 5-Piece Flexible Cutting Board Set is here to make your kitchen prep a breeze. These BPA-free plastic cutting mats are designed for both convenience and safety, helping you chop, slice, and dice with confidence.
What We Like:
- Generous size: Each board measures 14.65 x 11.02 inches, offering plenty of space for all your ingredients.
- Space-saving design: They are lightweight and ideal for small kitchens, dorm rooms, RVs, or camping trips.
- Color-coded system: The rainbow colors help you assign a specific board to different food types, preventing cross-contamination and flavor mixing.
- Secure grip: The lattice pattern on the back keeps the boards firmly in place, so they won’t slip while you’re cutting.
- Knife-friendly surface: The slight texture on top stabilizes your knife without dulling the blade.
- Easy food transfer: Bend the flexible boards to easily slide chopped ingredients into pots and pans.
- Simple cleanup: These boards are dishwasher safe, making post-meal cleanup quick and easy.
- Safe materials: Made from food-grade, BPA-free plastic for your peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- Dishwasher temperature limit: Remember to keep the dishwasher temperature below 194°F (90°C) to protect the boards.
This cutting board set offers a practical and colorful solution for any kitchen. They make preparing meals safer and more organized.
3. Plastic Cutting Board
Rating: 8.5/10
Upgrade your kitchen prep with this 4-piece Plastic Cutting Board set, complete with a handy storage stand. These BPA-free boards are designed to keep your food safe and your kitchen organized. They come in a colorful box, making them a great gift idea too.
What We Like:
- Color-coded for safety: Each board has a different color and icon (red for meat, yellow for cooked food, green for veggies, blue for fish). This helps you avoid mixing germs between different foods, keeping your kitchen healthier.
- Smart design for easy use: The boards have a mesh surface to protect your knives. A juice groove catches spills, keeping your counter clean. Non-slip silicone handles and corners make them easy to hold and keep steady while you chop.
- Durable and good size: These boards are 13.15 x 9.4 inches and 6mm thick, making them thicker and stronger than many others. They are made from 100% food-grade plastic, so they are safe and last a long time.
- Easy to clean: You can pop them in the dishwasher! The storage stand has a hollow design to let air flow, keeping the boards dry and preventing yucky smells.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a slightly larger size for very big chopping tasks.
- The plastic material, while durable, might show knife marks over extensive use.
This cutting board set makes food prep safer and more organized. It’s a practical addition to any kitchen for everyday cooking.
4. Farberware Large Cutting Board
Rating: 8.8/10
Meet the Farberware Large Cutting Board, your new kitchen best friend! This trusty board is designed to make meal prep a breeze. It’s made from tough, white polypropylene plastic that won’t soak up juices or leave yucky stains. Plus, it’s super kind to your knives, helping them stay sharp longer. This board measures a generous 11 inches by 14 inches, giving you plenty of space to chop, slice, and dice all your favorite ingredients.
What We Like:
- Made from strong, non-absorbent polypropylene that resists stains.
- It’s gentle on your knives, helping them stay sharp.
- You can use both sides, so you get twice the cutting space.
- It has a handy hole to hold onto for better control while you work.
- Perfect for cutting up meats, veggies, and more.
- Cleans up easily in the dishwasher.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s a good size, some cooks might prefer an even larger board for big tasks.
- The 0.25-inch thickness is standard, but a slightly thicker board might feel more substantial to some users.
This Farberware cutting board is a solid choice for any kitchen. It offers a great balance of durability, functionality, and easy cleaning.
5. Farberware Extra-Large Plastic Cutting Board
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready for easier meal prep with the Farberware Extra-Large Plastic Cutting Board. This white, 12-inch by 18-inch board is a kitchen essential. It’s designed to make chopping, slicing, and dicing a breeze. You’ll love how much space it gives you for all your ingredients.
What We Like:
- BPA-free poly material is safe and healthy. It won’t soak up juices or smells. Your knives will stay sharp longer because it’s gentle on their blades.
- The reversible design means you get two cutting surfaces. This is great for using one side for raw meats and the other for veggies.
- It has a handy grip handle. This makes it easy to carry and keeps it steady while you work.
- Cleaning is super simple. Just toss it in the dishwasher for a quick and easy clean-up.
- It’s perfect for cutting all kinds of food, from juicy meats to fresh vegetables.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s a good size, some cooks might prefer an even larger board for big cooking projects.
- The 0.25-inch thickness is standard, but a slightly thicker board might feel more substantial for very heavy chopping.
This Farberware cutting board offers great value and practical features for any kitchen. It’s a dependable tool that simplifies your cooking tasks and cleans up in a snap.
Choosing the Best Plastic Cutting Board: A Guide from America’s Test Kitchen
Finding the right plastic cutting board makes a big difference in your kitchen. America’s Test Kitchen has tested many boards. They know what makes a good one. This guide will help you pick the best plastic cutting board for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a plastic cutting board, keep these important features in mind.
- Size: Think about how much space you have. Do you chop a lot of vegetables? Do you need room for a whole chicken? A bigger board gives you more room to work. A smaller board is good for quick tasks or if your kitchen is small.
- Thickness: A thicker board is usually sturdier. It won’t wobble as much when you cut. It also lasts longer.
- Grip: Some boards have rubber feet or a grippy edge. This stops the board from sliding around on your counter. This is very important for safety.
- Easy to Clean: Look for a board that is dishwasher safe. This makes cleaning super easy.
- Knife-Friendly Surface: A good plastic board won’t dull your knives quickly. It should feel good under your knife.
Important Materials
Most plastic cutting boards are made from polyethylene. This is a common and safe plastic. Some are made from polypropylene. Both are good choices. They are durable and won’t absorb too much liquid.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a plastic cutting board better or worse.
- Good Quality Plastic: Boards made from high-density polyethylene are usually better. They are less likely to scratch deeply. They also resist stains.
- Thick and Solid Construction: A board that feels solid and heavy is usually a good sign. Thin, flimsy boards can bend and warp. They might crack over time.
- Non-Porous Surface: A good plastic board should not have many tiny holes. These holes can trap food particles and bacteria.
- Deep Channels: Some boards have channels around the edge. These catch juices from meats or fruits. This keeps your counter clean.
- Cheap Plastic: Very cheap boards might be made from lower-quality plastic. They can scratch easily. They might also warp in the dishwasher.
User Experience and Use Cases
Plastic cutting boards are great for many kitchen tasks.
- Everyday Chopping: They are perfect for chopping fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
- Meat Prep: Many plastic boards are good for preparing raw meat. It’s easy to wash them thoroughly afterward.
- Serving: Some attractive plastic boards can even be used for serving.
- Beginner Cooks: They are a good, affordable choice for people just starting to cook.
- Kids’ Tasks: They are safe and easy for kids to use for simple food prep.
Plastic boards are lightweight. They are easy to move around. They are also less likely to chip or break than glass boards. However, they can get scratched over time. America’s Test Kitchen suggests you should replace a plastic board when it looks deeply scratched or worn.
Frequently Asked Questions about Plastic Cutting Boards
Q: Are plastic cutting boards safe?
A: Yes, good quality plastic cutting boards are safe. They are made from food-grade plastic. They are easy to clean. This helps prevent bacteria.
Q: What is the best type of plastic for a cutting board?
A: High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a great choice. It is durable and resists stains and knife marks.
Q: How often should I replace my plastic cutting board?
A: You should replace it when it gets very scratched or worn. Deep scratches can trap food. This makes it hard to clean.
Q: Can I put plastic cutting boards in the dishwasher?
A: Most plastic cutting boards are dishwasher safe. Check the product instructions. High heat can sometimes warp cheaper boards.
Q: Do plastic cutting boards dull knives?
A: Good quality plastic boards are designed to be kind to your knives. They won’t dull them as quickly as hard materials like glass.
Q: What is the main advantage of plastic cutting boards?
A: They are lightweight, easy to clean, and often dishwasher safe. They are also generally less expensive than wood boards.
Q: Can I use one plastic cutting board for everything?
A: It’s best to have separate boards for raw meat and produce. This helps prevent the spread of germs.
Q: What are those lines on my plastic cutting board?
A: Those are knife marks. They happen with normal use. A good board will resist deep gouges.
Q: How do I clean a plastic cutting board?
A: You can wash it with hot, soapy water. Many are also dishwasher safe. For tough stains, you can use a paste of baking soda and water.
Q: Are there any downsides to plastic cutting boards?
A: Yes, they can get scratched over time. Deep scratches can be hard to clean. Some people prefer the look and feel of wood.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.